Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) topics were the focus of the second edition of ESG Connect – Yettel‘s networking event for the exchange of ideas and successful business practices. The meeting took place on 25 June 2024 and brought together business clients and telecom partners who presented their experiences on the topic, along with good examples of creating an environment where everyone feels accepted.
The event drew attention to the increasingly important role that the principles of equality and inclusion occupy at the national and European level in the context of legislation. The examples presented showed how upcoming regulations in the European Union are creating new demands for businesses and increasing their responsibilities – not only for people in organisations, but across the entire value chain of a company and the community as a whole. These include the Accessibility of Products and Services Directive, focusing on consumers, which will come into force in mid-2025, and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, which will take effect in early 2026. In support of equal rights and opportunities between the genders is the Directive on strengthening the application of the principle of equal pay for equal work for women and men, due for early 2027.
The opening session, led by Yettel, showed how the company applies DEI principles, on the one hand, through the prism of human resources, and, on the other, through the lens of sustainability, beyond the company’s boundaries. The focus of the HR policies were programs to include people with disabilities, whom the telecom chooses to call people with special needs – “shoulder to shoulder”, increasing the number of women in technology positions, and conducting internal trainings on unconscious bias and intergenerational diversity. The telecom’s commitment also finds a dimension beyond the company’s boundaries – through inclusive communication with customers – online and in person, as well as store accessibility for people with special needs.
The panel discussion featured representatives of IBM Bulgaria, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), Lidl Bulgaria, as well as the hosts from Yettel. Each of the companies had the opportunity to talk about their initiatives that support diversity and inclusion in the workplace. IBM Bulgaria presented their programs aimed at promoting diversity in teams by increasing the number of women in technology and leadership positions. Lidl Bulgaria’s presentation included its initiative to include people from different ethnic groups. Lastly, HPE representatives brought to light neurodivergence in the workplace and support for mental health.
Among the participants at ESG Connect were also representatives from various companies, including PwC Bulgaria, JTI, DXC Technology – a sign of the growing importance of DEI policies in the private sector. With this series of events, Yettel aims to create communities of diverse companies that support sustainability and share their experiences to help those who are just starting to implement ESG practices.
Yettel is a distinguished member of the Bulgarian Diversity Charter community. The company won the 2023 gold award in the Diversity@work category, a special prize within the annual Responsible Business Awards organised by the Bulgarian Business Leaders Forum, one of the organisations behind the Charter.
