Strengthening Commitment and Impact
From our experience, we’ve observed that diversity at work yields numerous positive effects on morale and productivity. Having members from varied backgrounds enriches us with new ideas and provides the framework for new ideas to come into play. Moreover, each of our diversity endeavours is overseen by members representing various functions, supporting the Diversity Equity and Inclusion goals and initiatives. In addition to serving as mentors for our diversity interns, they actively provide feedback, input and ideas. Moreover, inclusivity at Forbes Marshall does not stop here. We also embrace your loved ones to be part of the larger ‘Forbes Marshall family’.
Our Diversity Equity and Inclusion Champions oversee our diversity initiatives; providing input, feedback, and ideas that strengthen and solidify our diversity endeavours. From coaching sessions to peer group support, and emotional well-being initiatives, our commitment is unwavering.
Explore some of our initiatives below.
Persons with disabilities
At Forbes Marshall, disabilities have never been a barrier. What matters is an individual’s competence. Persons with disabilities like hearing and sight impairments, amputees and polio afflicted have always been an integral part of our workforce. Their presence enriches our workplace with diverse perspectives, fostering innovation and creative problem-solving. Notable instances of inspiration within our team include Shakti, working in our HR department despite having a physical disability in his right leg, and Akshay, who is interning in our packaging department despite having a visual impairment.
To widen the scope of opportunity, we have also introduced tailor-made internship opportunities for people with physical challenges, subsequently absorbing them into our ecosystem through different models. Moreover, we have introduced neurodiverse employees to the organisation, who work in our canteens. In addition, we have also partnered with a few vendors who support people with disabilities.
Gender Diversity
Manufacturing is primarily considered a male domain. At Forbes Marshall, we challenge this notion and champion gender equality in all roles, from manufacturing and sales, to legal and accounting, to research and development and technical services.
To further this commitment, we offer a year-long apprenticeship programme for women, providing opportunities to individuals from remote areas with an aim to increase female representation in supply roles. For aspiring female engineers, we’ve launched ‘The FM Super20 Programme,’ specifically designed to hire and train more women in a traditionally male-dominated sector, equipping them with practical industry knowledge and internship experience.
Additionally, we are deeply committed to promoting gender sensitivity and inclusivity across our organisation. With guidance from queer rights activist Mr. Madhav Khire, we have developed a roadmap to integrate LGBTQIA+ individuals into our workforce, welcoming all gender identities and assigning roles that best suit their abilities and strengths.
Cultural and Educational Diversity
We celebrate cultural and educational diversity, recognizing it as a cornerstone of innovation and growth. This diversity enriches our team, drives creative solutions, and enhances our ability to understand and serve a global clientele.
This philosophy is also reflected in our campus recruitment strategy, which aims to blend talent sourced locally and from beyond. We additionally invite international students for internship opportunities. This not only brings to the table unique perspectives and contributions, but also enriches organisational culture.
Building on this diversity, our ‘Second Innings’ programme provides opportunities for individuals returning to corporate life after a hiatus of over two years. Through an internship model, we facilitate a smooth transition back into the workforce, enabling them to embark on their second innings with confidence.
Wellness Diversity
At Forbes Marshall, we are committed to fostering a holistic approach to health, encompassing physical and emotional well-being. We have several employee assistance programmes that promote a balanced lifestyle through various aspects like stress management, exercise, diet control and mental wellbeing.
Our commitment is reflected in our engagement with specialists in the field. Together, we offer a holistic approach to supporting the wellness of our members at every stage of their lives. One such initiative is ‘mom@work,’ offering personalised one-on-one coaching for working mothers to navigate challenges during and after childbirth, which also welcomes the spouses of our male members. Our peer support groups for parenting and caregivers for the elderly provide a sense of mutual encouragement. We also provide access to resources like discreet counselling services and lifestyle management.
Generational Diversity
Each generation brings in unique skills and perspectives shaped by their life experiences and societal influences. At Forbes Marshall, each member’s voice is heard. We promote inclusive practices that integrate and value contributions from all generations to foster a cohesive and innovative culture. Our reverse mentoring programme is one such example where younger members of the organisation mentor their senior counterparts, fostering mutual learning and understanding. Through such initiatives we harness the collective wisdom and dynamism that spans across age groups, and enhances our ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
