Kathy Quashie, Vodafone’s Head of Partnership and Alliances, has been named in EMpower’s Ethnic Minority Role Model List for 2020 in recognition of her professional achievements and her tireless championing of ethnic minority people inside and outside the workplace.
EMpower, which is part of a wider organisation called INvolve, is an ethnic minority and advocate network working with businesses to drive positive and sustainable growth through inclusion.
The EMpower Ethnic Minority Role Model Lists, which are supported by Yahoo Finance, showcase senior leaders who are successful in business and also those who break down barriers at work for ethnic minorities in the UK, Ireland, Europe, United States and Canada.
“It really is an honour to be recognised on EMPower’s Ethnic Minority Role Model list this year,” a thrilled Kathy told Vodafone UK News.
“In the last few weeks, there has been much conversation and movement on the subject of race and racism in the world. The tragic death of George Floyd and subsequent protests around #BlackLivesMatter are a stark reminder that we have a long way to go in eradicating racism.
“We all have to play our part and I believe we each have an individual responsibility to ensure equality.”
Kathy, who joined Vodafone last year, leads engagement with businesses to promote the sale of 5G and intelligent connectivity services.
Outside Vodafone, Kathy has been a key member of ‘women in tech’ programmes, as well as coaching and mentoring people from other companies. She has also supported discussion panels for the Black British Business Awards and International Women’s Day #BalanceforBetter initiative, as well as teaching young adults how to interview for jobs. She was also shortlisted in ‘Women to Watch 2019, spotlight on BAME Board Future Talent’.
Anne Sheehan, Director, Vodafone Business UK, said: “I’m so proud that Kathy has been chosen as the Empower Ethnic Minority Role Model. The work that she has done internally at Vodafone as Chairperson for the Vodafone Multicultural Channel and the work that’s been done recently on #BlackLivesMatter is simply an inspiration to us all.
“I couldn’t think of anybody better to be a role model.”
As well as co-chairing Vodafone’s Multicultural Inclusion Network, Kathy is also a leader in the company’s UK Women’s Network. She has also been involved in various Vodafone UK cultural events.
“My vision, is that people from all backgrounds are entitled to the same opportunities, which is why I try to do my bit through sponsorship and mentoring,” Kathy said.
“I hope that everyone who’s been named on EMpower’s list can help to inspire the next generation of BAME individuals. More than ever before, being part of this community has given me reason and purpose to continue my progress in being the best I can for others.”
Trishanna Taylor, Vodafone Group IoT Solutions Specialist, was also listed on the EMpower list.
