Krishna Omkar is a globally recognised thought-leader on stakeholder capitalism, purpose, impact, ESG, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In 2023, the UK and Indian governments named him one of 75 recipients of the UK-India Achievers Honours to mark 75 years of India's independence. Krishna was awarded a 2019 Asian Achievers Award and named 2018 Role Model of the Year by Stonewall.
What do diversity and inclusion truly mean to you?
To me, “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” at its heart means freedom — freedom from fear of injustice or judgement, freedom to truly reach one’s potential, and freedom to be one’s fullest self. It’s about the fundamental human need to connect and belong, for the individual to be truly accepted as part of something bigger and greater.
How does the law empower diversity and inclusion? What must our readers know about it?
The law is inherently about justice. It serves to protect and empower the most vulnerable. It creates the paradigm in which the potential of a diverse society is harnessed through inclusion to create outcomes of justice and equitability.
If you were to correct one myth/mis-notion on diversity, what would it be and why?
There is a misconception that inclusion means special treatment. In fact, it means breaking down the barriers that hold diverse populations back from reaching their full potential. Inclusion means everyone is better off because no-one is worse off.
What should be the end goal of successfully practising diversity and inclusion in day-to-day life?
Inclusion starts with asking — what can I do to bring someone into a conversation they would otherwise not have access to? What doors can I open for others? It’s as simple as that. It begins at home. Nothing grand, but personal and mindful.
