What Diversity Means to Me: An Interview with Melanie Woolfenden at Fujitsu

We might not have been able to march side by side together in support of Pride this year as we did in 2019 so we caught up virtually with Mel to find out what diversity and inclusivity means to her and Fujitsu.

How important is inclusivity to Fujitsu?

At Fujitsu, our aim is to demonstrate our commitment to being an environment where people of all gender identities and sexual orientations can be completely themselves at work. This is a core value for us, is central to the Fujitsu Way and part of our commitment as global signatories of the UN LGBT+ inclusion standards for businesses.

What does it mean to be inclusive in the workplace to you?

We aim to build a culture within Fujitsu where everyone feels valued and respected irrelevant of their race, colour, religion, creed, sex, age, social status, family origin, physical or mental disability or sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.

Why is diversity important to achieving business objectives?

In Fujitsu we know that by bringing together the most diverse teams we deliver the best solutions, more innovation and quality service for our customers and provide a great place for everyone to work.

Why is it valuable to have inclusion?

The Fujitsu Way confirms the company’s commitment to respect fairness, equality and promote inclusion. It goes further to highlight that we all should, celebrate people’s identities, empathize with people’s challenges, and create solutions that make a positive impact to the environment, society and the economy.

Do you have any stats that you can share with us about LGBT or inclusivity?

What does Pride mean to you?

Celebrating Pride carries a really important meaning for us as LGBT+ people: it signifies acceptance; equality and the ability to be your genuine self.

It’s an opportunity to reflect on our history and those who have fought to bring about change, it renews a passion to continue to stand together against oppression.