11 Aug Inclusive Workplaces through Intentional Leadership
Shunda Robinson, Global Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at GM Financial discusses how to create inclusive workplaces through intentional leadership. She emphasizes the power of courageous conversations, authentic allyship, and actionable DEI strategies.
The Journey to Leadership
Shunda shares her personal and professional journey, emphasizing how overcoming discomfort helped her grow:
- Embracing Uncomfortable Situations – She often found herself as “the only” in the room, which taught her to use her voice and own her identity.
- A Pivotal Childhood Experience – A moment in fifth grade, where she felt isolated during a class film, shaped her understanding of inclusion and the importance of using her voice.
- Finding Purpose in DEI Work – Her transition from learning and development to DEI was driven by a commitment to real, measurable impact.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Walking the Talk
Shunda stresses that DEI isn’t just about policies; it’s about everyday actions.
- Normalizing Race Conversations in the Workplace – She challenges the old “big three topics you don’t discuss” (race, religion, sex) and explains why transparent conversations matter.
- The Workplace Response to George Floyd’s Murder – In 2020, her organization facilitated over 55 listening sessions to create a space for dialogue, empathy, and action.
- Feedback and Transparency – She urges leaders to provide clear feedback in hiring decisions to eliminate ambiguity and ensure equity.
Intentionality in Leadership
Being intentional is key to effective leadership. Shunda highlights:
- The Importance of Speaking Up – Leaders should call out inequities, even when it feels risky.
- Journaling as a Reflective Practice – A lifelong habit that has helped her track growth and resilience.
- Finding and Using Your Voice Early – Encouraging both self-advocacy and allyship.
Lessons for Leaders
Shunda offers three key takeaways for leaders:
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- Speak up when something feels wrong – Don’t stay in positions that don’t serve you.
- Find your voice early and use it for yourself and others – Allyship is crucial.
- Get comfortable with discomfort – Courageous leaders challenge the status quo.
Conclusion
Shunda Robinson’s insights highlight a powerful truth: creating inclusive workplaces requires more than just policies—it demands intentional leadership, courageous conversations, and a commitment to action. By speaking up, embracing discomfort, and fostering transparency, leaders can drive meaningful change in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Whether through mentorship, advocacy, or strategic decision-making, every leader has the opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Recommended Resources
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People | Stephen Covey
- Courageous Conversations | Gloria Cotton
- Courageous Conversations in DEI | Emily Koski
- Diversity and Inclusion in Corporations | Dell Birch
About Shunda Robinson
Shunda Robinson is the Global Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at GM Financial. She leads world-class DEI initiatives and serves as a strategic advisor to senior leadership, driving sustainable diversity and inclusion strategies. With a Bachelor of Science in Human Relations and Business and an MBA in Strategic Leadership from Amberton University, Shunda combines her expertise in leadership development with a deep commitment to workplace equity. A dedicated mentor and advocate, she first joined the Menttium community as a mentee and has since returned as a mentor.