At Flight Centre Travel Group, a global leader in travel experiences, creating an inclusive workplace where every employee feels valued and inspired is a core priority. This commitment was recently exemplified by the company’s successful hosting of its first-ever Flourish: Black Employee Symposium. This event was specifically designed to foster connection, facilitate professional growth, and celebrate the voices within Flight Centre Travel Group’s Black employee community, known internally as “Flighties.”
The impetus for Flourish stemmed from employee data indicating a strong desire among Black employees for long-term careers within Flight Centre Travel Group (88% expressing this intent). However, the same data highlighted a need for enhanced feelings of belonging and greater representation within the organization. Flourish was strategically developed to directly address these needs by increasing visibility for Black employees, providing leadership development opportunities, and nurturing authentic connections across different regions and business units within Flight Centre Travel Group.
The Symposium was packed with impactful sessions and activities, including:
- Networking Opportunities: Dedicated time for employees from various locations and departments to connect and build relationships.
- Brightness of Future Workshops: Focused sessions designed to enhance leadership skills and promote career advancement within Flight Centre Travel Group.
- Fireside Chats: Engaging discussions with leaders from Intrepid Travel and United Airlines, offering valuable industry insights.
- Keynote Address: An inspiring presentation by a representative from Hyatt, sharing perspectives on professional growth and diversity.
- DEI AMA Session: An “Ask Me Anything” session focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, providing a platform for open dialogue.
- Supplier Diversity Business Update: Information sharing on Flight Centre Travel Group’s commitment to supplier diversity.
- Celebratory After-Party: A relaxed and enjoyable conclusion to the day, fostering community and celebration.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with participants sharing comments such as:
- “I felt 100% authentic and seen.”
- “It was amazing and very inspiring. Can’t wait for the next one!”
- “A meaningful day that created space for our voice!”
- “It’s been really insightful and so nice to see people who look like me.”
- “This professional environment fostered growth, recognition, and community, which was very meaningful.”
- “The best day I had at work in a long time. It felt amazing to be heard, seen, and understood.”
The impact of Flourish was significant and measurable. The event received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from attendees. Furthermore, there was a noticeable increase in participation in Flight Centre Travel Group’s Employee Resource Groups following the symposium. Key themes emerging from event feedback highlighted inspiration, authenticity, and a strong sense of community building. Importantly, the company’s annual employee survey demonstrated a 5% increase in positive sentiment among Black employees, directly following the Flourish event.
Initiatives like Flourish underscore Flight Centre Travel Group’s deep-seated commitment to equity and inclusion. They reinforce the understanding that belonging is not merely a stated value, but a principle actively pursued through concrete actions. Flight Centre Travel Group extends its gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of Flourish, recognizing their role in building a brighter, more inclusive future together. As Flight Centre Travel Group continues to prioritize diversity and inclusion, the company invites individuals who are inspired by this commitment to explore career opportunities and contribute to a workplace where everyone can thrive. Learn more about joining the Flight Centre Travel Group team and making a meaningful impact: https://lnkd.in/fJ3z5Bx
