Milbank’s London Diversity & Inclusion Committee, headed by partner John Goldfinch, hosted a week of activities celebrating and promoting diversity from 16 – 20 September, 2019. The office enjoyed a number of events and initiatives throughout the week:
- Reggie Nelson, recognised by the media as the young man whose persistence took him “from East London to the City,” was the keynote speaker, participating in a discussion with senior Felicia Hanson Ofori-Quaah. Mr. Nelson completed five internships at financial firms and is currently a Graduate Analyst at Legal and General Investment Management (LGIM). He promotes social mobility and mentoring for young people in the UK and offered tips for organisations seeking to recruit and retain diverse talent, centered on the themes of visibility, guidance and hope.
- With the goal of building a healthy working environment free from stigma around mental health issues, the office announced its new Mental Health First Aiders Programme. A group of lawyers and staff attended a two-day course aimed at empowering people to support others’ mental well-being, including the skills needed to assist those who may be experiencing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
- The office enjoyed some food, drinks and fun – along with challenging trivia questions – at its annual Diversity Week Pub Quiz after hours.
- Wrapping up the week, winners of the global “A Portrait of Milbank” photo contest, celebrating Milbank’s diversity worldwide, were first announced in the London office over tea before being shared firmwide – read more and view all of the photos here.
- Throughout Diversity Week, members of London’s D&I sub-committees (BAME, Family Friendly, LGBT+ & Allies (Pride), Mental Wellbeing and Social Mobility) sent “Thought for the Day” emails, and a “Diversity of Thought Lending Library” was available in the breakout area for colleagues to exchange books that have broadened their horizons.
