February is a time to recognize Black voices and the impact they have on our collective future. As we bring individuals from different backgrounds and experiences together, we can collectively grow, innovate to benefit our clients, and uplift the communities we serve.
In honor of Black History Month, we asked some of our associates to share how Gartner’s employee resource groups have helped them develop and grow their career. Read on to hear what they had to say:
“Through my work in the Black Employee Network (BEN) I’ve found mentors that have helped me take the next step in my career as an Executive Advisor in the HR practice, I’ve gained skills that would have taken me years to acquire in another setting, and I’ve been able to shatter where I thought my career limits were. My new goal is to lead an HR function one day, and I couldn’t have the confidence to have such a big goal without BEN and our amazing community!” - Ivan H., Senior Principal, Advisory
“Gartner’s Black Employee Network provided an opportunity to build a community within Gartner and has allowed me to expand my network beyond my immediate team. Through BEN, I’ve broadened my understanding of Gartner’s business, identified new experiences to add to my development plan and created beneficial mentoring relationships.” - Sharon C., Director, Human Resources
“Gartner’s Black Employee Network has been instrumental in my growth and development by creating a community that prioritizes belonging and inclusivity. It has also provided me with the opportunity to enhance my leadership skills.” - Oluchi N., Sales Development Manager
"BEN has played a key role in my journey at Gartner. The support and encouragement from BEN has empowered me to bring innovative ideas to life.” - Keyia Burton, Senior Principal Advisor
Throughout February, Gartner will host a series of events, open to all associates, that highlight Black History Month’s history and importance. Activities throughout February will inspire and empower Black associates and their colleagues to rise to new heights in their careers.
The month will begin with a workshop on allyship in action, setting the stage for a series of events celebrating Black culture and fostering a culture of inclusion. All associates are invited to participate in a trivia challenge to test their knowledge of famous Black films. Additionally, we will be hosting a discussion featuring associates representing Nigerian, Jamaican, Afro-Dominican, and Black American cultures, offering insights into how we can support and uplift one another in the workplace. Finally, we will be hosting a book club meeting to discuss "Small Worlds" by Caleb Azumah Nelson, providing all associates with an opportunity to explore the Black experience through storytelling.
There will be no shortage of ways for all Gartner associates to get involved, learn more and celebrate the contributions from members of the Black community throughout history in observance of Black History Month.
Hear more from Yvonne Genovese, EVP, Global Product Management and Executive Sponsor of the Black Employee Network at Gartner:
Our Black History Month theme this year, ‘Elevate & Empower’ is a cornerstone of a strong community and team. No one does it alone. When we support each other personally and professionally, we create future leaders who will have big dreams and even bigger achievements.
Our commitment to inclusion extends beyond the months that we celebrate, thanks to our employee resource groups. BEN, which is open to all associates, is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment that promotes the professional growth, cultural understanding, and personal development of Black associates and colleagues globally.