At TfL this year marks a major milestone for our fabulous Colleague Network Groups (CNGs) – we have now been championing inclusion, amplifying voices, and building community for an incredible 20 years!
One of my personal highlights from the celebrations was our first-ever in-person, fully collaborative event involving all of TfL’s CNGs. What started as a simple idea on a list - to showcase intersectionality - quickly grew into something much bigger, thanks to the energy, creativity, and commitment of everyone involved. Held in June at the IFS Cloud Cable Car, each cabin had its own unique theme and speaker, creating a moving (literally!) and deeply engaging experience.
We covered career development, women’s health, the Equality Act, disability awareness, community and culture and how it affects colleagues in our LGBTQ+ community, listening and supporting from a faith perspective and building mental resilience from a carer’s and parents perspective – there was a lot! But that wasn’t all, the Cable Car Experience Centre was also hosting incredible speakers, Jodi Goldman joined us to talk about how we can all shine and be more visible in the workplace, Anna Black and Genevieve Hallam from 40’s Woman and Beyond talked us to about menopause and nutrition and Dan Glass closed the event with a talk about creating change in our communities. To sum up - it was powerful and was, without a doubt, one of the most enjoyable, educational, and inclusive events we’ve ever held.
And just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, just last month our formal anniversary celebration took things to the next level. We heard from past and present CNG Chairs, who reflected on the journey over the past two decades and shared their hopes and aspirations for the future. It was a moment of pride, gratitude, and renewed energy for what’s to come. At this event I spoke about the unseen work that is done quietly by the CNGs but has the most significant impact and drives organisational change. Looking back, I feel incredibly proud to be part of a community that continues to lead with purpose, passion, and authenticity.
These celebrations reminded me of the power of collaboration and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. The stories shared, the connections made, and the collective energy in the room were a powerful reminder of why our network groups matter and why they must continue to thrive for the next 20 years and beyond.
Here’s to continuing the journey, together.
Sarah Hargest, Chair of the Women’s Colleague Network Group
#TfL #Inclusion #Diversity #ColleagueNetworkGroups #20YearsStrong #Intersectionality #WCNGVolunteerArmy
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