DEI Academy

Studying the complete academy (the full package) starts with an individual online DEI Competence test that maps your DEI knowledge, skills and attitudes. You will receive the report in the form of a chart and scales.The test takes approximately 60 minutes.

This is followed by a 90-minute individual diagnostic and coaching session where you will create a development plan. Coaching dates are arranged individually.

The start of the academy (the full package) begins with an introduction to the group, concept and time line. We will introduce how to get the most out of the academy and how we can support you over the 3 months.

The launch is led by Jana Tikalova and Katarina Kabáth, who are also the DEI Academy designers.

We will explore the nature of biases and how our brains work, how we process information and make mental associations that may underlie our unconscious behaviour, decision-making and communication. We will delve into different types of biases and social bubbles that will reflect their relationship to the work environment.

Together we will look at several multicultural approaches with different cultural dimensions. We will be able to distinguish 7 levels of integration of cultural differences. We will delve into self-reflection, mapping our potential and actual prejudices and what they may cause in everyday life. Finally, we will name communication strategies to help us avoid or better navigate culturally challenging situations.

We look into neurodiversity in the context of work. You will gain practical tips for shaping the work environment towards better inclusion of people with diverse neurological profiles (autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorders or learning disabilities). We will discuss inclusive practices in light of the concept of universal design; that is, an approach that emphasizes accessibility and usability of processes and practices for the most diverse user(s), without the need to share sensitive information about diagnosis or disability beforehand. We address the specifics of employment for neurodivergent people, particularly those with autism; individual adaptations in key work process practices such as job interviewing, onboarding, spatial adaptations, and team communication.

We will explore the latest developments in DEI, placing the topics in a temporal and geographical perspective to understand the evolving nature of these trends. In addition, you will receive a curated selection of resources and organizations that will provide you with the tools and inspiration to further explore and engage with DEI trends. The goal of this module is to equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to stay informed and engaged in the dynamically evolving DEI landscape.

The ability to emotionally regulate, work with stress and mental resilience are not only the strengths of a good leader*, they are suitable for both work and life. According to interpersonal neurobiology, our nervous systems are connected. Learn to regulate your nervous system with simple proven exercises, which can further reflect on
your relationships in your team and in your personal life.

We will explore the basics of the role of LGBTQ+ diversity in workplace transformation. The aim is to provide a better understanding of LGBTQ+ identities, highlight common issues, offer ideas for employee/women-led initiatives and inspire them to become allies. We will discuss common micro-aggressions and provide strategies to confront them in the workplace.

How to deepen dialogue and understanding between different generations in the workplace? First, let's take a little excursion into the different types of generations and their typical characteristics. But we will also explore how in everyday life we tend to generalise and stereotype in a classic way that completely destroys relationships and communication. So we will discuss how to deepen understanding between generations in a follow-up Q&A.

In the Czech Republic, we face a problem of widening gender pay inequality. The average pay gap between women and men is 17.9%. Over the last year, this gap has increased by 2%. We will examine what equal pay means in practice, what differences can be considered legitimate and what can no longer be considered legitimate. We will also look at pay transparency, what it does and does not include, and how it can be implemented in practice. We will orientate ourselves in the tools and obligations of the employer and show what the situation is on the Czech market.

Increasingly, there are demands for gender sensitivity and inclusiveness of language. Where do these demands come from? What does it actually mean? How can these demands be approached and what are the pitfalls that we know or should know about? In the form of a lecture and small sub-activities, we will introduce the basic terms and concepts, explain the origins and development of the requirements for gender sensitivity, introduce the areas where the requirements are directed, and show possible solutions.

We will focus on practical steps to support transgender and non-binary people in the workplace and on aspects of transition such as name changes in employment relations and administrative processes. We will recommend specific tools and strategies for creating a safe and supportive work environment, including internal communication and adapting work spaces and facilities.

With a cup of coffee and a snack, you will visit several themed places within three hours. In small groups or pairs, you will explore the DEI area in greater depth under the guidance of experienced professionals and practitioners.
In the World Café we will open 5 topics:

• How to use LEGO® Serious Play® in a team with Katarina Kabáth
• DEI from above - ownership with Teresa De Bardi
• ROI and DEI communication in teams with Jana Tikalová
• ERGs benefits and pitfalls with Honza Kotík
• Inclusive leadership with Dita Formánková

The Sharing Circle is the last point of the whole Academy, where sharing in circles, pairs or triads will take place with reference to the development of DEI competences and a look back at the DEI Academy.

The DEI Forum is a day full of discussions, workshops and presentations by speakers from the Czech Republic and abroad on trends in DEI.

During this international conference organised by OPIM, the DEI Academy graduates will be awarded. You will meet those who ran the Academy, personalities who play an important role in DEI and have the opportunity to network.