Diversity & Inclusion with Anjali Nair

How do you identify yourself?

My name is Anjali Nair and I am a woman, a mother and an Indian.

What does inclusion mean to you?

Inclusion to me is refusing to fit where you should belong. Inclusion shouldn’t require us to change who we are, it should just require us to be who we are. It is the opportunity to bring our authentic selves without the fear of being judged. In my opinion, we have the responsibility to learn how to understand people better and treat them with the same level of respect, care and kindness we’d like to be treated with.  

What challenges did you experience, if any, in your career and how did you overcome them?

It was tough initially having to juggle with work commitments & being a first time mom in a country where I did not have support from family. I was constantly struggling to be present in both roles. I had the constant need to rush from one thing to another. I thought I was falling short and I lacked self-confidence.

I spoke to my manager & mentor about my situation and he helped me through it. Their constant support and guidance helped me as I navigated through my situation. I took breaks to unwind when I needed them. This has helped me find my purpose and not burn out. 

What could others learn from your journey?

There are going to be an awful lot of times you think you aren’t enough. Give yourself some credit and take it easy! You’ve got this. Prioritize what you need to do and where you need to be. Set short-term goals. Take it easy.

How is Deloitte helping you build your career?

Deloitte has been really kind to me. Coming from industry, the shift to consulting was a huge step. But my coach always ensured that I felt at home and provided me with the constant guidance & support I needed.

I believe Deloitte is #1 place to work, where the leadership is invested in the team’s growth. I consider myself lucky to have progressed to the next level. This is a huge milestone for me & I acknowledge the fact that my success is because of my coach & my manager guiding me through every roadblock. 

Do you have any mentors and if so, what is their value to you?

Simply put, I wouldn’t be the person I am, if not for them. I dedicate my success to them. They believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. They prioritized giving me feedback, suggestions, and support all along.

If you are reading this, a big thank you for changing my life! 

What’s one piece of advice you would give to a young female starting off their career?

My advice would be to learn as much as possible. Make good connections. Be involved in activities that help you network. Be present & proactive, but most importantly, have fun.

What's the most valuable thing you have learned since joining Deloitte?

Most of my work is outside my comfort zone. It gives me the opportunity to learn something new everyday.

My team at Deloitte has taught me that asking questions isn’t a sign of weakness. If anything, it only shows that you have the courage to admit when you don’t know something and wish to learn something new.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone relocating their life and career to Ireland?

As crazy and difficult as it might sound, it’s sure worth the try! Personally, relocating to Ireland has been a great decision. My advice would be to make as many friends as you can. Try and learn something new. Keep yourself busy with things you like.

Go where you are invited. It always a good idea to socialise and build networks – be it a professional networking event or a social gathering. There are a lot of clubs you could join to find people with similar interest.

What’s one piece of advice you would give a new parent/ caregiver trying to juggle their new life and career?

Give yourself grace! You’ve been through a lot. It might feel like you are exhausted and need a break. Take that break! Take it now. 

Please describe inclusion in 5 words.

Inclusion is being you unapologetically!