I gained professional experience in local
government, non-governmental organizations, and institutions,
allowing me to understand various perspectives and implement diverse
human rights activities. I have also collaborated with businesses,
organizing Living Libraries and conducting training sessions and
workshops. I approach clients individually, tailoring programs to
their needs. Currently, I focus on supporting organizations in
developing DEI strategies and delivering a comprehensive educational
offering – training, workshops, webinars.
I invite you to explore my services and collaborate with me!
Assisting step by step in developing a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) strategy aimed at creating an inclusive work environment. Key steps include gathering diversity data, aligning with industry benchmarks, analyzing data, determining areas for change, and collaboratively establishing strategy goals through workshops involving key individuals. This process may lead to forming a DEI Council after discussions with management, leaders, ERG members (if applicable), resulting in a comprehensive internal/external DEI strategy and action recommendations.
Conducting workshops on inclusive language to enhance workplace communication. Covering principles of inclusive language, gender-sensitive and gender-neutral language, participants learn to eliminate common communication errors, gain awareness, and develop empathetic thinking. Together, we aim to modify organization messages to be more inclusive and appealing to a diverse audience.
Facilitating workshops to recognize personal privileges, fostering inclusive attitudes, and building a friendly organizational environment. Addressing unconscious biases, participants reflect on their types, learn to identify and not let biases influence decisions. The workshop also covers microaggressions — what they are, how to react, and prevent them. The goal is to empower individuals to recognize their weaknesses and build strengths in a safe space through inclusive exercises.
A comprehensive training program for leaders to develop inclusive traits and lead diverse teams effectively. Modules cover DEI introduction, inclusive team communication, inclusive language, recognizing unconscious biases and microaggressions, building effective allyship, and inclusive mentoring and sponsoring.
Analyzing the current hiring and onboarding processes to propose more inclusive solutions. In individual consultations, step-by-step improvements are tailored for employees from various groups. Materials for inclusive onboarding, considering organizational needs, can be also prepared.
Addressing the challenges of communication in diverse and multicultural teams. Workshops focus on identity, intercultural differences, and effective communication, avoiding biases and stigmatization.
Guiding organizations on adapting to the needs of different individuals, not only providing answers but also helping create a work environment where everyone feels safe, comfortable, and appreciated.
Assisting cultural institutions in making their offerings accessible to diverse audiences by eliminating physical and psychological barriers. Providing individual support for inclusive offerings and activities targeting disadvantaged groups.
Exploring how to engage individuals from marginalized groups through partnership and self-determination. Discussing communication and organizational considerations to design inclusive activities in institutions/organizations.
A foundational workshop to understand and combat discrimination. Starting with self-reflection on identities, participants gain knowledge about discrimination mechanisms and how to recognize its manifestations. Workshop exercises focus on intergroup dynamics and reacting to various forms of discrimination, tailored to the group's specific needs and adaptable timeframes.
Conducted training on diversity and inclusive language for organizations and institutions, including Fujitsu, Commerzbank, Rossmann, Municipality of Łódź, Marek Edelman Dialogue Center, EduKABE Creative Solutions Foundation [EduKABE Fundacja Kreatywnych Rozwiązań], Action Foundation [Fundacja Działania], Diversja Association, Łódź Branch of the Polish Tourist and Sightseeing Society [ Oddział Łódzkiego PTTK], Warsaw Jewish Film Festival, and SIMCHA Jewish Culture Festival
Organized Living Library sessions for employees of Fujitsu, Commerzbank, EY, 3M, Mondelez, Nokia, Danone Provided training for organizers of Living Libraries in Poland
EDUCATION
Completed courses:
I enjoyed working with Eliza on multiple projects connected with diversity and inclusion. I would like to particularly recognize Living Library projects run by Eliza with great professionalism and passion. For her, it's not only a job, it's mission. I can wholeheartedly recommend working with Eliza.
CSR Manager
I
am delighted to recommend Eliza Gaust as a distinguished Diversity,
Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) professional. I have had the privilege of
collaborating with Eliza for over a decade on multiple occasions, and
each encounter has underscored her exceptional skills and dedication
to fostering inclusive environments.
During
our cooperation within the Living Library Poland network, I had the
opportunity to witness Eliza's outstanding communication and training
abilities. Her fearlessness in addressing and responding to
challenging questions, coupled with her commitment to working with
underprivileged groups in an atmosphere of respect, marks her as an
open-minded and dedicated professional. Eliza has a unique talent for
cultivating enduring partnerships with local authorities and business
collaborators.
Eliza's
prowess as a trainer is evident in her ability to conduct impactful
sessions on anti-discrimination, intercultural education, and
DEI-related workshops. Her workshops on inclusive language and
micro-aggressions are particularly commendable, showcasing her
nuanced understanding and ability to provide real-live case studies
of these crucial aspects of diversity and inclusion.
In
her role as the Plenipotentiary for Equality Policy under the Mayor
of Łódź,
Eliza consistently demonstrates her expertise in human rights and a
remarkable aptitude for building enduring relationships with diverse
groups. Her advocacy work on behalf of marginalized communities and
her approach to developing DEI strategies for more equitable
workplaces are exemplary.
Eliza
Gaust is not only a DEI professional with a wide range of skills but
also a passionate advocate for positive change. I am confident that
her dedication and expertise make her an invaluable asset to any
organization committed to fostering DEI. On top of her unique skills,
she is a warm, listening and creative person that is it an absolute
pleasure to work with. It is without hesitation that I recommend
Eliza for any role or project that aims to create a more inclusive
and equitable environment.
Certified Diversity, Equity & Inclusion consultant
and trainer
Eliza
Gaust worked at the Marek Edelman Dialogue Center in Łódź for over
10 years, dealing with anti-discrimination education, programming
inclusive activities and events that involve the multicultural
community of Łódź in the cultural life of the city. Since 2022, he
has been professionally dealing with equality issues in Łódź and
actively works to combat exclusions.
For
the Marek Edelman Dialogue Center in Łódź she conducted inclusive
language workshops, during which she introduced team members to the
latest extensions of the principles of inclusive language.
Eliza
Gaust is a professional anti-discrimination trainer, she is very
active in social activities, thanks to which her knowledge is not
only theoretical, but also practical.
Director