Will Diversity and Inclusion "Just Happen"?

Joanne Lockwood is joined by business strategist William Buist to explore whether diversity and inclusion will naturally improve over time, or whether it requires deliberate action. They discuss how legislation can create the illusion that equality has been achieved, while everyday systems and norms still produce unequal outcomes.

William reflects on the invisibility of privilege for those who have it, and why allyship often looks like many small, intentional “nudges” rather than grand gestures. The conversation moves into how networking and referral habits can unintentionally reinforce sameness, and how widening personal and professional circles can create opportunity and learning for everyone.

They examine inclusion and accessibility in both physical and online settings, noting that remote working can reduce some barriers while introducing others. The episode also explores how recruitment and “merit” measures (like years of experience) can embed bias, and why organisations need to redesign processes and culture to make change stick. Throughout, the focus is on practical culture change, dialogue, and building a workplace and society where people are valued for what they bring rather than excluded by outdated assumptions.