An upcoming symposium of brand custodians and industry leaders will train the spotlight on inclusion.
The mainstream representation, or the lack of it, of the differently able, LGBTQIA+ and other marginalised sections will be a topic of discussion at BrandEdge, organised by the Public Relations Society of India (PRSI), Kolkata Chapter, in association with The Telegraph.
The day-long conference will be held on September 30.
Going beyond a typical brand conference, this edition of BrandEdge "aims to foster an engaging discourse on diversity, equity, and inclusion," says the website.
"Journey with us through the rich history of Kolkata and Bengal, from its ancient roots of cultural syncretism to the contemporary focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion," it adds.
Corporate leaders, social entrepreneurs, policymakers, rights activists, caregivers, human-resource professionals and educationists will be among those attending the programme.
"Diversity, equity and inclusion are not very familiar topics for a brand symposium. There are laws that are meant to secure adequate representation of the minorities. But they have remained largely on paper. There is a major gap in both the government and the private sectors," said Soumyajit Mahapatra, chairman of the city chapter of the PRSI.
Ashutosh Gupta, India country head, LinkedIn, will give the inaugural address on "tapestry of talent".
Yeshasvini Ramaswamy, CEO, Great Place To Work, India, will deliver the keynote address on "celebrating brands that drive change".
The two addresses will be followed by a series of panel discussions. The panels will talk on inclusive employment, diversity in the workplace, use of technology as an enabler of inclusion and the role of the government and educational institutes in achieving an equitable society.
"Diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental in thriving branding strategies today, as they create a powerful bond with a diverse global audience, driving loyalty and sustainable growth. At the conference, expect engaging discussions, unique insights and networking opportunities," Mahapatra said.