Advancing Equality In Tech With Hady Mendez

In this enlightening episode, Deja sits down with Hady Mendez, the Director of Equality at Slack. Hady shares her insights on the future of work, the ongoing journey of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and her career path. She discusses the importance of creating inclusive workplaces, leveraging transferable skills, and staying true to one’s purpose. Hady offers practical advice for women of color navigating the tech industry and emphasizes the significance of authentic engagement. This episode is a powerful testament to resilience, purpose, and the relentless pursuit of equality.

• Deja introduces Hady Mendez, Director of Equality at Slack.
• Overview of Hady’s background and her role at Slack and Salesforce.

• Hady discusses what companies often get wrong about DEI.
• The ongoing journey of making workplaces inclusive and connected.

• Hady explains her role at Slack and its integration with Salesforce’s Office of Equality.
• Unique initiatives and Slack-specific efforts towards equality.

• Tips for women of color pivoting into DEI or social impact roles.
• The importance of recognizing and leveraging transferable skills.

• Hady shares how her time in prison ministry shaped her views on equality and support.
• The value of presence and seeing the full humanity in others.

• Addressing the low percentage of Latinas in the tech workforce.
• Hady’s involvement with organizations like Latinas in Tech and internal task forces.

• Hady’s motto, “Keep Shining,” and its significance in her work.
• The importance of being a beacon for the community and breaking barriers.

• Deja expresses her appreciation for Hady’s work and the inspiration she provides.
• Final thoughts and encouragement for listeners.
  

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[Editor’s note: This episode uses audio from an interview that published in April 2023.]