Sian shares her journey from growing up in Australia with Sri Lankan heritage to leading global people functions. Sian reflects on finding confidence in her identity, breaking barriers, and creating opportunities for underrepresented talent, alongside her volunteer work with the Fashion Minority Alliance.

Sian explores the evolving role of HR in a world shaped by AI, emphasising inclusive learning, psychological safety, and adapting to different learning styles. Sian also shares her commitment to fairness and education, showing how organisational practices can build trust, align with values, and drive success.

Her one wish for HR leaders is to champion initiatives that grow people while delivering measurable organisational value. By linking storytelling, data, and business outcomes, Sian demonstrates how inclusive HR leadership can create lasting impact, calling on you to lead with purpose and break barriers.

References 

Fashion Minority Alliance

UNESCO / UN Reports on Education and Wellbeing

Thank you to Staffbase for sponsoring this episode  

Staffbase knows that HR leaders are driving transformation in the workplace and they're here to help.

Staffbase Communications Cloud empowers HR leaders to be transformation trailblazers, driving trust and business success in change through strategic communication. Their internal communications platform empowers companies to connect with their people, whether they're at their desks or on the front lines.

With tools that improve engagement, amplify employee voices and align everyone with your company's goals, Staffbase makes it easier for HR leaders to create and measure lasting change. Want to learn more? Head over to Staffbase.com to see how Staffbase can help your organisation thrive.

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Are you looking for your next great read that inspires you and helps your work? 

Each month we recommend a book that challenges, motivates and uplifts, every pick is selected to spark meaningful conversations and personal growth. 

Our October Book of the Month is Soup for Good by the amazing team at Cook for Good.

It all began with a simple act: a flask of homemade soup shared with a volunteer. That small gesture grew into a weekly soup café and a community-wide love of soup. This book shares the recipes, stories, and characters that make it so special - while 100% of profits go back into Cook for Good’s Community Programme; celebrating the power of food, generosity and community in shaping inclusive cultures aligned with our work and values at Uplifting People and a timely reminder that small human centred gestures can create big change.

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Head to UpliftingPeople.com to grab a copy, and we hope you enjoy this month’s Uplifting Book!