We are delighted to share that we have won the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Award at the Dynamites Awards 2024.
The Dynamites Awards, a pinnacle event in the North East’s IT and technology sector, celebrated our company’s exceptional commitment to creating an inclusive workplace. In the words of the judging panel, Kinewell “took a holistic approach to EDI” that stood out among the finalists.
Our Diversity Vision
Our Chief Technology Officer, Dr Henna Bains captured the essence of our approach, stating: “As CTO, I not only want to offer the best software products to our clients, but I strive for the technology to be developed in an inclusive space. Where people feel not just comfortable to be themselves, but thrive. Not just diversity of thought, but diversity of action.”
This philosophy has been fundamental to our growth. As a small but expanding team, we have deliberately cultivated a culture that embraces diversity through thoughtful behaviours and processes. As an innovative company delivering world firsts, we know no one has all the skills we need. That’s why in recruitment we prioritise the alignment of values and look for transferable skills. This means we’re not constrained by the poor demographics of the existing tech and offshore wind sectors, resulting in our staff consisting of 31% women compared to a sector average of 5%. We also actively engage with external programmes to create unique opportunities for disadvantaged communities to enter and gain experience within our sector, such as the DWP Kickstart Scheme creating jobs for unemployed young people and the Karbon Homes Newstart scheme creating jobs for those living in social housing.
Our commitment extends beyond internal practices to inspiring the next generation of tech professionals.
Inspiring Future Talent
A prime example of our forward-thinking approach is the EduKLOC tool, an interactive game that allows young people to design their own offshore wind farm. This innovative free educational resource aims to enthuse students and career seekers about STEM careers in renewables, potentially introducing them to exciting job opportunities they may have never considered before.
Impact Beyond Numbers
Our innovative approaches include developing unique recruitment strategies, implementing agile working practices, and creating programs that support inclusive employment. These practices transcend traditional productivity metrics by creating meaningful pathways to employment for diverse groups who might otherwise struggle to participate in the workforce. By offering flexible schedules, remote work options, and adaptive work arrangements, these practices empower young parents to balance childcare responsibilities, enable carers to manage their personal and professional commitments, provide opportunities for individuals with health challenges or accessibility needs to contribute their skills, and support emergency volunteers like search and rescue workers (including our CEO and Founder) who must respond quickly to critical situations. This approach not only expands economic participation but also demonstrates a profound commitment to inclusivity, recognising that talent and potential are not confined by rigid workplace structures, but can flourish when organisations embrace human-centered, flexible working models.
Looking Forward
This award is not an endpoint, but a milestone in our ongoing journey to transform the tech sector.
We will continue to challenge industry norms, create opportunities, and demonstrate that true innovation comes from embracing and celebrating our differences. By fostering an environment where diversity is not just welcomed but actively cultivated, we are setting new standards for inclusivity in the technology and offshore wind sectors.
Kinewell’s Dr Andrew Jenkins, Dr Henna Bains and Dylan Jones with the EDI Award
