On May 27 at The Brownstone, leaders from Calgary’s business and community spaces came together for Confluence YYC: Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility. The panel focused on practical, solutions-oriented conversations about how businesses can build inclusion into their culture, and why inclusion matters to business outcomes.
Inclusion and accessibility matter, even when they’re not trending
The event began with a discussion on why inclusion remains necessary in business, especially when some organizations are pulling back. Panelists pointed out that stepping away from inclusion efforts doesn’t address the issues but rather hides them – and makes them even harder to solve.
Eden Wilson, an Olympic medalist, opened with a message that grounded the entire discussion: “It’s okay to not know everything. No one’s going to cancel you for not being perfect. What matters is that you’re open to learning.” The reminder was clear: growth begins with honesty and progress occurs through curiosity.
Jay Brewster, Senior Manager of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging with Rogers, built on Wilson’s message by challenging the idea that inclusion work needs to be perfect or comprehensive to be impactful. “You don’t need to be an expert,” he said. “There are organizations doing this work already. You just need to reach out and connect.”
With how busy and resource-constrained small businesses are, affirmation that starting somewhere – even with small steps – is important progress. Jay emphasized that partnerships and shared learning are key.
Holly Singer, owner and founder of Milk Jar Candle Company Inc., added a specific example that every workplace can use: “start by creating a space where people feel safe giving and receiving feedback.” That simple action can shift workplace culture. It helps people feel seen and supported, which directly impacts how they show up at work.
The panel also covered accessibility, with Jay and Holly both stressing that change doesn’t have to be significant or expensive. Reviewing digital platforms, adjusting physical spaces and making hiring more open are small but meaningful ways to start. Their message: accessibility is everyone’s job, and it benefits more people than you think.
Starting your inclusion journey
Confluence YYC made one thing clear: inclusion isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present. Businesses don’t need to have everything figured out, and small steps make a big difference. What matters is committing to the work, listening intently, and making space for everyone to belong.
That message connects directly to a larger effort happening across the city. As part of this year’s Calgary Small Business Awards, the Inclusion Award is now open for applications. More than just a recognition, it reflects the same principles highlighted at Confluence YYC.
The RBC Inclusion Award recognizes small businesses that champion inclusion through their policies, practices and culture, and making meaningful efforts to remove barriers, amplify underrepresented voices and create positive change in their industry and community. Applications close on July 3.
If there’s one takeaway from Confluence YYC, it’s this: inclusion is not a checkbox. It’s something you build into the way you show up, the way you listen and the way you lead. When businesses commit, collaborate and stay open, everyone moves forward.
To learn more about the Calgary Chamber’s work on inclusion, or to learn more about our Inclusion Pillar Partner RBC, visit our website.
About RBC
Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 98,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our more than 19 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com.
RBC is proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/peopleandplanet.
