Partner Content: 'Diversity is etched into the DNA of SHI' - MD Donavan Hutchinson

Diversity is etched into the DNA of SHI. As the largest minority and woman-owned company in the United States, we advocate a greater representation of women and minorities in tech.

Our commitment to DEI spans the globe and our success can only be achieved thanks to the diverse voices at the heart of our company. Everyone within our organisation - regardless of background or status - has a seat at the table in determining how to best serve our community and customer needs.

What's more, we believe advancing gender equity through the forging of meaningful connections is vital for achieving success at SHI.

Our commitment to women in tech is centred around our WiSH resource group. Its mission is to celebrate the diversity of women in technology. WiSH hosts events and forums throughout the year that inspire, empower - and encourage collaboration - for all our employees.

We spoke to our managing director, Donavan Hutchinson, to hear his thoughts on diversity within the tech industry, and how the CRN Awards help to improve diversity in the workplace.

He said, "The channel, historically, has been dominated by men. In a world that has continued to evolve we are seeing more and more women enter the world of tech - which is fantastic.

SHI has always had a focus on gender diversity and providing a platform for women to progress their careers in the IT channel. The channel as a whole is exciting and the one thing I would do is educate the younger generation in the technology industry, drive campaigns such as graduate programs, and ensure that women are supported in their careers."

This is why SHI is so honoured that our staff members have been nominated as finalists for the CRN Awards, it shows that our continued commitment to diversity is paying off.

As Donavan continues, "These awards not only bring the communities together, but it helps to drive the channel in focusing on this extremely important area.

I am a huge supporter of these awards given that they don't only showcase the amazing talent we have across the channel, but it also showcases the organisations who are driving change so that everyone can be the best version of themselves."

While there is still a lot of progress to be made to bring more women into the tech industry, an unlikely driver of positive change in tech has been the COVID-19 pandemic, which has forced companies to innovate with their recruitment policies.

Donavan believes "the pandemic, coupled with Brexit has not only allowed businesses to expand their reach for talent outside of the norm due to hybrid working.

It has also allowed businesses to focus on changing the way they hire candidates either due to skills gap shortages or by driving programs that help to train and develop more people from diverse backgrounds into the workplace."

So, how can businesses continue to help female and minority voices be heard in the tech industry?

Well, Donavan believes "we all have a duty as leaders, as managers, as companies, to help educate the importance of a diverse workforce.

Taking action, supporting the different demographics and also giving your employees the platform to not only be the truest version of themselves but to educate them and raise awareness of equality for all."