Why Inclusivity Matters to Me: Adam's Story

Growing up in a rural part of Yorkshire, I witnessed firsthand how a lack of inclusivity can lead to prejudice and discrimination. As a child, I kept my identity hidden out of fear—having seen others who were open about who they were face bullying and exclusion. These early experiences shaped my belief that inclusivity must start early, especially in schools, to prevent the formation of biases that can persist into adulthood. The impact of discrimination can be long-lasting, and I’ve seen how damaging it can be.

To me, inclusivity means being able to live authentically, without barriers or fear of judgment. When you're in an inclusive environment, your mind is free from the weight of others’ opinions, allowing you to focus on your goals and thrive. I’ve found that being able to be my true self has allowed me to progress in my career just like anyone else—and that’s exactly how it should be.

In school, I had friends who were open about their sexuality, race, or religion, and sadly, they often faced bullying and discrimination. These experiences highlighted how far we still have to go. But entering the workplace and seeing those differences treated with respect and neutrality showed me what true inclusivity looks like. It’s about removing bias and embracing people for who they are.

Azets actively promotes inclusivity through its involvement in community initiatives throughout the year—whether it’s Pride, Black History Month, or Mental Health Awareness Week. One standout moment for me was when Azets sponsored York Pride for the first time. I was honoured to take part, and it felt like a meaningful step in our journey toward a more visible and public commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Pride sponsorship really resonated with me. It was more than just a logo on a banner—it was a clear message that Azets supports and celebrates its people. It’s encouraging to see the firm taking real steps to support inclusive events and create a workplace where everyone feels they belong.

I believe that real change starts with education. Teaching inclusivity in schools can help shape a generation that’s more open-minded and accepting. It’s about planting the seeds early to eliminate unnecessary discrimination against minority groups. Beyond that, we all need to be more mindful of each other’s personal circumstances—everyone is different, and those differences should be respected and valued.