Rikki Arundel
Professional Speaker in Hull, United Kingdom
I have a personal mission – to help create a fairer world in which every person's gender, gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation is accepted and respected.
Impossible dream – certainly challenging but in the UK we have some excellent tools to help work towards that goal especially the Equality Act and the Public Sector Equality Duty. But many people don't understand these tools and changing that is a big part of what I do.
My most important skills are Public Speaking and Coaching which enable me to make learning about equality and diversity fun and teach people how to be outstanding speakers. Learning should be enjoyable; seminars should be entertaining and informative; speeches should be memorable and inspire action.
My focus on gender became a life purpose a decade ago when I began "coming out" as a transgender woman. That was such a steep learning curve for me. I had never experienced discrimination until then. But once I experienced the impact of prejudice against me, I was able to see bias and prejudice against others far more clearly.
Today people are aware of the need to not be seen to discriminate – but the underlying prejudice is still there in our beliefs and attitudes. Unconscious Bias and Hidden Prejudice are the big challenges we face today - Much harder to spot and much more difficult to challenge.
Unfortunately in times of economic pressure like today, people with protected characteristics are most vulnerable and it is very important for all socially responsible organisations to make sure that they continue to strive to be Fair to all staff, customers and service users – and Treat Everyone with Dignity and Respect.
That is the theme of my Keynote Presentation, Seminars, Workshops and Consultation services. If you would like to discuss how I can help you, especially in relation to Sex, Gender and Equality – don't hesitate to contact me - 07976259557