As part of our 90th anniversary celebrations, Nissan donated 90 vehicles to 68 French schools to help them train the mechanics, technicians and automotive engineers of tomorrow. As well as inspiring young people to learn about the technological and environmental elements of a STEM career, the programme will help us attract a new generation of diverse talent.
The Nissan Italy cross-functional DEI team has been working hard to champion the inherent link between fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and driving innovation, growth, and success. During a keynote speech at an all-staff meeting, the country’s dedicated DEI lead, Giorgia Ortu La Barbera, provided valuable insights and practical advice for creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to bring their full self to work.
Celebrating diversity today also means understanding our past. In Egypt, our team used Heritage Month as an opportunity to showcase our rich history and culture. During an interactive one-day event, employees enjoyed a tour of the Nissan Museum, attended a panel discussion with local Nissan executives and took part in a series of engagement activities designed to celebrate our longstanding role within the country’s automotive sector.
The Nissan Possibilities Project is a long-term initiative that draws on our technologies, resources and expertise to create more opportunities for people from underrepresented communities. For example, our inclusive cheer zones are designed to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and increase participation at large UK running events. Similarly, we work with charity partners Sported and the Richard Whitehead Foundation to provide running prosthetics to young people with limb loss or amputation. And in FY2023, we helped launch the Supported Runner Project, which partners volunteers with disabled people to help them navigate large public sporting events, such as the Great North Run and the London Marathon.
A new LGBTQ+ ERG for employees, Nissan Pride, was launched across the three Nissan UK facilities during FY2023 with the support of Nissan UK DEI ambassador Adele Roberts. Four officers were elected to steer the network and have since led various activities for members, including guest speaker sessions and events for LGBTQ+ history month. We also launched the Disability Ally network, led by Nissan DEI ambassador Richard Whitehead MBE. It will help people living with disabilities from across the company unite in championing programmes and initiatives that help everyone feel represented and supported at work.