Living Black at University Commission Report 2022/23 44 Living Black at University Commission Report 2022/23 45 Developing a business case for change requires a change in approach. Aligning your financial requirements with the moral case for DEI and giving them both an equal weighting in importance ensures that inclusion isn’t left behind. So, with that in mind, here are some things to consider: 1 People: students, applicants, employees and your local community : The best, brightest and most loyal know what they want and what they are looking for. How does inclusion improve your ability to attract and retain them? How can it encourage them to invest in their future with your organisation? 2 Value alignment : Aligning what you say with what you do is a true mark of authenticity and helps to build trust with stakeholders. Ensuring your values align to the people you engage with – or want to engage with – can be a regular reminder to keep the pace on your journey towards greater belonging. 3 Understand the commercial (risk and value) : Inclusion work is not a direct revenue generator, but if you do it, you will become more successful. There is plenty of research that shows that diversity and inclusion is good for business. 4 Golden thread : Innovation and creativity is bred in cultures that put effort into belonging. True inclusion is not a standalone strategy but a pillar in every strategy within your organisation, all the way to the top. 5 Sustainable futures : Think about what impact your organisation wants to leave on the world. Most organisations have a sustainability strategy by now and the good ones include environmental and governance factors that promote sustainable operations and impact. However, the ‘S’ – ‘social’ – in ESG seems to be the bit that everyone struggles with. DEI is the foundation of great social sustainability: increasing representation, supporting those who are marginalised and providing equitable opportunities will help to create a better future for both your organisation and wider society. 6 Check yourself : No one person has all the answers, so keep learning and keep checking in. Look around the room, bring in those with lived experience (and pay them!) and use advisory groups and consultants. Keep up-to-date with contextual research. Make data-informed decisions; don’t just rely on anecdotal stories or one (usually loud) voice. 7 Determination and resilience : DEI work is hard and making mistakes is inevitable. An ability to dust yourself off and try again is key. You have to keep pushing forward, even when it’s tough or it feels like you’re not making much progress – because you are having more impact than you think. Even if it’s just for one person, you are making a difference.