Foundever™, a leader in the global customer experience (CX) industry, is taking a more proactive role in the promotion of LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Philippines.
The company’s Baguio hub recently hosted the Philippine Financial and Inter-industry Pride’s (PFIP) first LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion Forum. The forum tackled the current state of LGBTQ+ acceptance and inclusion in the city.
Over 60 participants attended the forum including Foundever and other PFIP members from different businesses, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations. Led by PFIP, it was the first forum of its kind facilitated in the region. “Events like this are vital in promoting awareness, acceptance, and equality within the corporate landscape,” said Leo del Castillo, PFIP North Chapter Lead and Leadership Development Manager at Foundever.
The event featured a keynote address from Dr. Jennifer Josef, an associate professor of Anthropology and Sociology from the University of the Philippines Baguio, presenting research findings that shed light on the interplay of LGBTQ+ identities in the Cordilleras. Her presentation explored the historical perceptions and reception of LGBTQ+ individuals within the community. She also delved into the dynamics of economic status and how it can serve as a catalyst for familial recognition and societal acceptance.
During the event, PFIP also launched its playbook containing plans and strategies that will serve as a guide for organizations in the creation of a more inclusive and empowering workplace culture. Audiences were also introduced to PFIP’s Rainbow Youth Academy, an assistance program for select graduating LGBTQ+ youth that aids in placing them in internship programs of PFIP’s member firms. The PFIP LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion Forum facilitated valuable networking and the exchange of ideas, leaving participants with further understanding and actionable strategies for promoting inclusivity in their organizations.
While true LGBTQ+ acceptance remains a challenge, the corporate landscape, particularly the CX industry, has taken steps towards progressiveness. Programs and initiatives are designed to align with the global diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) standards. Foundever, recipient of the “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Award” from HR Asia and Circle of Excellence for the DEI Company of the Year at the Asia CEO Awards 2023, stands at the forefront of this movement towards inclusivity.
“At Foundever, we firmly believe that our diversity is our greatest strength,” said Carlo Abundancia, Director of Operations at Foundever. “We are steadfast in our commitment to creating a workplace where every individual feels respected, valued and empowered to be their authentic selves.”
Hosting the PFIP forum is among the suite of DEI initiatives and policies that Foundever currently has in place. It includes a DEI committee to ensure visibility and representation within the organization and a mandated virtual training to educate the company’s workforce to promote diversity and inclusivity. Foundever also has DEI-friendly benefits such as inclusive healthcare for domestic partners regardless of sexuality or gender identity.
