and Inclusion at Benefit Cosmetics.

Mia Talavera

Mia Talavera is an exceptional leader known for her high performance and unwavering dedication to driving positive change in organizations. With a strong passion for strategy and a deep commitment to fostering inclusive environments, she currently serves as the director of global diversity, equity, and inclusion at Benefit Cosmetics.

Please tell our readers about your key roles and responsibilities in your organization.

I emphasize the importance of a strategic approach to bridge the gap between the current and desired states of inclusivity. A well-crafted DEI strategy ensures equal opportunities for all individuals, fostering engagement and desire for change within the organization.

My passion lies in developing strategies that focus on three key components: Culture, Talent, and Crand. Culture involves inspiring inclusive behaviors and beliefs, educating others on the essence of DNI. Talent recognition and appreciation are vital for valuing the diverse contributions to organizational success. Additionally, building a strong inclusive brand that both embraces and embodies diverse representation across all dimensions.

When joining a new organization, I assess their current environment for DEI efforts and progress, before creating a customized strategy to guide them towards DEI goals. I understand the significance of strategy in overcoming challenges and achieving long-term company objectives in the DEI realm.

What are your thoughts on the essential strategies required to develop an effective and cohesive diversity and inclusion plan within a specific organization?

I believe that an important aspect of creating a robust and seamless diversity and inclusion strategy in any organization is setting clear goals and being goal-oriented. When there are specific goals in place, especially related to diversity, equity inclusion, it allows for a focused approach and enables the identification of associated actions required to achieve those goals. Having measurable goals sets a baseline for success and is crucial for tracking progress and implementing accountability, which are necessary for driving meaningful change.

“The vision itself is important, but it must be accompanied by well-defined strategic goals to effectively guide the organization's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion efforts.”

For instance, at Benefit Cosmetics, one of our goals is to foster a sense of belonging through formal and informal education, aiming to in still inclusive beliefs and behaviors. This goal is centred around inspiring individuals to not only be receptive to DE&I concepts but also take action on effecting change themselves. To support this goal, we develop DEI programming and curriculum to engage in various topics such as gender equality, racial equity, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and mental health disparities. These initiatives aim to cultivate empathy and awareness for the value of diversity in the workplace Overall, the vision itself is important, but it must be accompanied by well-defined strategic goals to effectively guide the organization's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion efforts.

What will be your advice to your peers and colleagues in the industry?

My advice to my peers and colleagues in the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion space would be to not be afraid of being the first to initiate change. My own journey into the field of DEI was unconventional like many other practitioners, but I felt a strong desire to address inequities in the workplace and take action.  In this work, I often encourage others to be the change they wish to see, model inclusive behaviours that you want others to emulate and being willing to do your part. Advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace has been transformative for me, if not life-altering. Having the courage to address taboo subjects or overlooked issues ultimately can inspire others to speak out or to see the reality of your vision for positive change. Also have the willingness to learn from the people around you and value learning from their unique experiences of making desired changes too!