Today we’d like to introduce you to Neelam Chand.
Hi Neelam, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
In Davis County, Utah, my childhood was marked by a struggle against racial discrimination and cultural alienation. A place where being brown meant feeling out of place, surrounded by a homogenous community, I often found myself contorting my identity, trying to mold it into the normalized image of white skin, blue eyes, and blond hair. But college brought a seismic shift. Meeting others who shared my culture and skin tone, I learned to embrace my heritage, finding strength in my roots.
This transformation wasn’t just personal; it became the cornerstone of my professional life. In the year 2020, I founded Shift SLC — a Diversity & Inclusion consulting firm, driven by my experiences. Our mission is clear: dismantle barriers, combat racism, and build inclusive spaces in organizations nationwide. We work tirelessly to ensure that no individual feels the exclusion I once endured, regardless of their appearance or background.
My journey, from confronting challenges in Utah to leading in diversity, is a profound reflection on the power of embracing one’s roots. In my role at Shift SLC, I do more than influence policy; I create environments where every identity is respected and celebrated. This professional path holds special significance as it represents a meaningful turnaround from my own experiences as a young girl who once felt she didn’t belong.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Embarking on the journey with Shift SLC was a period full of mental and emotional challenges. My career until then was defined by a stable, high-ranking corporate role.
However, the confluence of the pandemic and the profound social movements arising from the murder of George Floyd marked a pivotal moment. It sparked widespread conversations about racial equity, revealing a significant gap in the corporate world’s ability to address these issues, particularly among leaders unfamiliar with such discussions.
Recognizing this, I felt a deep-seated call to action but grappled with self-doubt and fear. The thought of leaving the security of my established career to venture into the unknown was daunting. Questions like “Can I succeed on my own?” and “What if I fail?” were constant companions. Fortunately, the unwavering support of my husband and family provided the necessary strength and confidence to leap.
Their encouragement was crucial in transitioning from the safety of a 9-5 job to the uncertainties of entrepreneurship. It’s their support that made it possible for me to pursue this path and create meaningful change through Shift SLC.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Shift SLC stands at the forefront of fostering meaningful change in the corporate world, specializing in bridging the gap in conversations around racial equity and inclusion. Our organization’s core mission is to empower organizational leaders with the tools and knowledge necessary to engage in these critical dialogues effectively and compassionately.
What sets us apart is our unique approach that blends deep industry insights with a keen understanding of social dynamics. We don’t just offer guidance; we provide a transformative experience that reshapes organizational cultures and mindsets. Our specialization lies in tailor-made workshops, training sessions, and consultative services that are not only informative but also deeply impactful.
We take pride in our brand’s commitment to authenticity and effectiveness. Shift SLC is recognized for its ability to create safe spaces for challenging conversations, enabling leaders and teams to grow and adapt in a rapidly changing social landscape.
For our readers, it’s essential to know that Shift SLC is more than just a service provider. We are partners in your journey towards a more inclusive and equitable workplace. Our offerings are designed to meet you where you are and guide you to where you need to be, ensuring sustainable and meaningful progress. We are proud of the changes we’ve instigated and the positive impact we’ve had on numerous organizations. With Shift SLC, it’s not just about the conversation; it’s about the change that follows.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
My perspective on risk is grounded in the belief that, despite its intimidating nature, it often catalyzes innovation and transformative change. Embarking on the journey to establish Shift SLC was one of the most pivotal risks I’ve taken. Leaving a high-ranking, stable position in the corporate world wasn’t merely a career shift; it was venturing into uncharted territory. This decision was fueled by a deep-seated desire to influence the corporate conversation on racial equity and inclusion.
The magnitude of this risk cannot be overstated. Stepping away from the security and routine of a 9-5 job to navigate the unpredictable waters of entrepreneurship was a daunting prospect. Yet, this move was essential and felt profoundly right, especially considering the societal needs and the pressing demand for the services we aimed to provide.
Now, as I lead Shift SLC, the freedom to work in this vital area without constraints is incredibly fulfilling. There are no boundaries or bureaucratic hurdles restricting the level of creativity I can bring to this work. This journey of taking such a significant risk has not only been a testament to personal growth but also a demonstration of how stepping into the unknown can lead to impactful and meaningful work.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shiftslc.com
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/neelam-chand
