On Wednesday, April 5, Dentons hosted its second annual diversity & inclusion event. The series of linked discussions that focused on the theme of inclusion started in Australia and continued around the world throughout the day. The conversations were engaging and provided insights and perspectives on the topic of inclusion that benefited all that attended and focused on further action steps to address this business imperative. The discussions also provided an opportunity for lawyers and professionals to participate in a conversation that spanned our Firm in a single day.

The event is part of Dentons' ongoing efforts to empower our people, regardless of race, ethnicity, faith, religion or spiritual beliefs, gender, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, abilities, social perspective and other characteristics.

Details of each event

Event #1 was a client panel titled Diversity and Inclusion: A client imperative. The panel discussed what diversity and inclusion means for their organizations and how they ensure it is reflected in the organization's culture. They also discussed their expectations of external legal providers in this space, and how law firms can work with clients to build diverse and inclusive teams.

Event #2 was a panel discussion focused on Women in Leadership, where a number of Dentons leaders shared their personal experiences and observations during an interactive session.

The panel included:

• Anda Todor, Romania Country Managing Partner
• Wendela Raas, Netherlands Country Managing Partner
• Amanda Lowe, PR & Communication Manager Europe
• Igor Ostrowski, Warsaw Partner and member of the Europe Diversity Committee
• Selim Keki, Istanbul Partner and member of the Europe Diversity Committee (moderator)

Event #3 featured Cathy Gallagher-Louisy, Senior Director, Consulting, from the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion who presented on Creating a Respectful Workplace. Cathy guided the audience through best practices around appropriate workplace conduct and explored how to foster a respectful workplace that is inclusive of all people.

Event #4 featured Arthur Matthews, Chief Operating Officer and Principal Partner of Matthews & Matthews Consulting, who presented Diversity & Inclusion-The Introductory Playbook for Best Practices in the Legal Portfolio. Arthur's presentation focused on enabling all of us to become better champions of diversity by providing a solid understanding of diversity and inclusion vernacular and nuances. He also provided tips on how to create an individual leadership action plan that is sustainable and empowering.

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