TOP Community
TOP Community
We are pleased to launch 'Insiders Perspectives' a collaborative white paper. We have partnered with Fashion Business School, London College of Fashion, University of the Arts London to collect and analyse research, which has formed the basis of this white paper. This report is written and produced by The Outsiders Perspective.
We have met with people of colour working in industry and as we listen to their experiences, it is clear there are silos across all businesses. There is a distinct lack of structured space at industry level in which their voices can be expressed and listened to freely. Where people collectively discuss their challenges without being perceived as challenging. Or where they can discuss difficult topics, without being branded difficult. Where they do not feel like a minority.
We have launched that space through TOP Community. An industry-first gathering of employees from ethnically diverse communities. A positive platform for collective discussion and innovative thinking. A space to build a sense of belonging, to foster connections with peers and where people can help steer our industry to become a more inclusive place for everyone.
This report is exclusive access for the people teams within our partnership network. For access to the full report, please contact the team to explore collaboration opportunities.
Executive Summary
TOP Community launched on 2nd July 2024 with its first in-person gathering of industry professionals, all people of colour currently working in the head offices of our brand partners. On the day, there were small group facilitated discussions that yielded clear insights presented to you in this white paper. The discussions are captured in 3 key areas:
Industry
Explores the role of leadership in advancing diversity within industry. It was recognised that there is a significant lack of diversity at leadership level, a belief there has only been low level progress leading to scepticism as to whether a sustained effort is being made. It was also stated that fashion is far behind other industries in its progress, with systemic barriers highlighted.
Personal Development
The desire to better understand how to navigate career progression, to learn, share and build skills for continued professional development. There is a shared belief that, as a person of colour with a lack of role models at senior level, there is no clear pathway to progress.
Community
The desire to build community with peers was recognised as a critical route for personal growth and to support career progression. Named benefits of having community included; having safe space to speak, share and learn, the potential to access mentorship opportunities, gain new perspectives and collaborate.