Shining a Light on Winston Clements: Pioneering Disability Advocacy and Inclusion

This is #IncreaseDiversity, a weekly newsletter series + Increase Diversity Toolbox sharing best practices for employers who want to learn how to… well, increase diversity. To see previous editions, visit JenniferTardy.com. | IG: @IncreaseDiversity | Increase Diversity - YouTube

Building on the momentum from our inaugural Increase Diversity™ Summit, where we explored "Who is Qualified?" and tackled bias in recruitment and retention, Team JTC is thrilled to shift our focus to the crucial question: "How Do I Say It?" The 2024 Increase Diversity™ Virtual Summit Experience will dive into the intricacies of effective language for inclusive recruitment and retention strategies.

In this special Increase Diversity™ Summit Newsletter, we are proud to introduce Winston Clements (he/him). Winston, a global keynote speaker and disability advocate, is renowned for his expertise in unconscious bias, disability awareness, and anti-racism. 

Born with brittle bones disease, Winston uses a wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, he champions a life without limits and will be speaking at the upcoming Increase Diversity Summit on the topic, “How Do I Say It? with a focus on exploring effective language within the disability community. 

Winston's journey and achievements are incredibly motivating, and we are excited to share his story with you.

1. Tell us a little bit about who you are. What would you like our community to know about you?

I am a global keynote speaker and disability advocate passionate about supporting the world’s leading organizations in delivering cultural change that is truly inclusive. Born with brittle bones disease, I have experienced over 200 fractures in my lifetime and use a wheelchair for day-to-day mobility.

Despite this, I stand for a quality of life that knows no excuses and no limits. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and our two-year-old daughter. Originally from London, UK, I now reside in Atlanta, GA.

2. Tell us about your journey into the work that you now do (either directly or indirectly) within the field of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

I graduated with a degree in Computer Science from the University of Westminster in England and spent nine years working in the technology industry. Throughout my corporate career, I was an active member of employee resource groups (ERGs), using my lived experience as a person with a disability to advocate for more inclusive policies and practices in the workplace.

My advocacy work eventually led me to deliver two TEDx talks, after which I left my technology career to focus full-time on disability advocacy.

3. Who is most impacted by the work you do, and how are they impacted?

I have shared my story on stages and at conferences around the world, typically delivering speaking and training sessions at corporations to educate leaders and staff on disability inclusion best practices. 

I am also highly requested by colleges and universities to equip students and staff with tools and inspiration. My work impacts individuals with disabilities, helping them find their voice and advocating for a world that recognizes their value and potential.

4. How does your organization help companies increase diversity?

Positive Spin International performs diversity diagnostics to assess inclusive working practices and deliver tailored speaker sessions for staff members at all levels. Our goal is to help organizations understand and implement best practices for disability inclusion, fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace for everyone.

5. What products/services do you offer to your community to help them make an impact? How can people get in contact with you?

We offer comprehensive diversity diagnostics, engaging keynote speeches, and specialized training sessions on disability inclusion and unconscious bias. These services are designed to transform organizational cultures and promote a more inclusive environment. You can connect with me on LinkedIn, or visit my website for more information.

6. As you know, the theme of the Increase Diversity Summit is "How Do I Say It?: Effective Language to Use For Inclusive Recruitment and Retention Strategies." Why is this topic important to you?

As a person with a disability, this topic is deeply personal to me. With my experience in human capital management, I understand the power of language in shaping perceptions and driving inclusion. If my message helps someone learn to speak and think inclusively, even in a small way, it’s worth the effort.

More About The Increase Diversity Summit 2024: How Do I Say It?

October 16-17, 2024 | 11:00 AM ET - 2:15 PM ET

Join us for the 2024 Increase Diversity™ Virtual Summit Experience starting on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, and concluding on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024. This immersive event will guide participants through the complexities of effective language for inclusive recruitment and retention strategies.

Through engaging talks, interactive breakout sessions, and thought-provoking panel discussions, you'll gain practical tools and techniques to revolutionize your approach to increasing diversity and retention without harm.

Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to deepen your understanding and enhance your recruitment strategies.  View the full agenda, and register today for the 2024 Increase Diversity™ Virtual Summit Experience for only $99 per ticket Hurry, ticket availability is limited!