Are we witnessing the collapse of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives? In this thought-provoking video, I break down the rise and fall of DEI, exploring why these programs were introduced, how they transformed industries, and what’s causing their rapid decline today.

From the shocking retraction of DEI programs by Target to the backlash from high-profile voices like Tina Knowles (Beyoncé’s mom), we’ll dive deep into the controversy and examine the role of key influencers like Robby Starbuck in shaping the narrative.

We’ll also shed light on how diversity in tech still struggles today, supported by data from LinkedIn and the Harvard Business Review, and uncover strategies you can use to navigate this shifting landscape while staying an advocate for equity and inclusion.

💡 Don’t miss my reel, where I dive into the breaking developments over the past week, giving you a day by day breakdown. Check it out

👉 Got thoughts? Connect with me:
📧 Email: reneelouise.tech@gmail.com
📸 Instagram: @reneelouise.tech
🎥 TikTok: @reneelouise.tech

Video Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro
00:17 - The importance of DEI programs
00:47 - What today’s video is about
01:00 - Why were DEI programs started in the first place?
01:36 - How diversity in tech still struggles today (statistics included)
03:00 - What is causing this rapid decline of DEI? (Robby Starbuck’s role)
04:13 - Target’s DEI retraction and Tina Knowles’ reaction
04:48 - Companies still supporting DEI
05:06 - Strategies to navigate this shift & how to advocate
08:48 - Thanks for watching + important call to action


#DiversityInTech #DEIFall2025 #InclusionMatters #TechIndustry #RiseAndFall #EquityAndInclusion #AdvocateForChange #TargetDEI #TechTrends2025 #DiversityInclusion #donaldtrump #robbystarbuck #conservative #conservativemovement

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Tips for Success in 2025

Welcome back to Blaq Byte! As we have crossed over into the New Year, I’m bringing you some practical, hands-on tips to help you make 2025 your best year yet. Whether you're looking to grow personally or professionally, these strategies will set you up for success. Dive in, and don’t forget to check the timestamps to jump to the sections most relevant to you!

Episode Breakdown:

• 00:00 - Intro & Why This Video is Important
  • Discover why setting intentions and preparing for the new year is crucial for success.
• 00:28 - Practice Gratitude
  • Learn how cultivating gratitude can positively impact your mindset and overall happiness.
• 01:02 - Have Firm Boundaries
  • Tips on establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries to protect your time and energy.
• 01:36 - Stop People-Pleasing
  • Strategies to break free from the habit of people-pleasing and prioritize your own needs.
• 02:24 - Health and Wellness
  • Practical advice on maintaining physical and mental health to boost your productivity.
• 04:01 - Produce More, Consume Less
  • Insights into shifting from consumption to creation to achieve your goals.
• 04:56 - Make Time for Rest
  • The importance of rest and recovery in sustaining long-term success.
• 06:11 - Regular Reflections
  • How reflecting regularly can help you stay on track and make necessary adjustments.
• 07:37 - Take More Risks
  • Encouragement to step out of your comfort zone and embrace calculated risks.
• 08:27 - Testimony of Success - Goldman Sachs
  • A powerful testimony highlighting the impact of these tips on a career at Goldman Sachs.
• 10:25 - Make a Decision
  • The significance of decisiveness in navigating your path to success.
• 11:41 - Be Consistent
  • Why consistency is key to achieving lasting success.
• 12:46 - Networking and Getting Around Like-Minded People
  • Tips on building a supportive network of like-minded individuals to inspire and challenge you.
• 14:54 - Celebrate Your Wins
  • The importance of celebrating your achievements to stay motivated and positive.
• 16:31 - Make Time for Loved Ones
  • Balancing work and personal life by prioritizing time with loved ones.
• 17:59 - Start Now, Get Perfect Later
  • Encouragement to take action now and refine as you go along.
• 20:04 - Protect Your Container
  • How to safeguard your mental and emotional space to maintain focus and clarity.
• 21:48 - Keep Learning, Growing, and Developing
  • Continuous learning as a tool for growth and development.
• 23:21 - Outro
  • Wrapping up with a final note of encouragement for the New Year.

Thanks for tuning in! Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode with friends, and leave a review if you found these tips helpful. Here’s to a successful and fulfilling 2025!

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🎙️ Missed my talk Beyond The Checkbox: Building Inclusive Tech Spaces and Pathways for Diverse Talent? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! 🖤✨

I recorded it as a podcast episode just for you. Now, is it the exact same as being there live? Nope, because you really had to be there to feel the energy and catch the vibes! 😌🔥 But trust me, this episode is the next best thing.

Huge thanks to Women Of Silicon Roundabout for giving me the platform to share this message. 💡✨ Because building inclusive tech isn’t just a box to tick, it’s a movement. 🌍💪 #BeyondTheCheckbox #InclusiveTech #PodcastVibes

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- Introducing Ayisha, a software engineer in the Fintech space who transitioned from her role as a receptionist into tech, all without a formal degree in computer science.

**Episode Highlights:**

1. **Ayisha’s Background:**

   - Brief overview of Ayisha’s early career as a receptionist.

   - Discussing the initial challenges and what sparked her interest in tech.

2. **The Turning Point:**

   - The moment Ayisha decided to pursue a career in software engineering.

   - Key motivations and influences.

3. **Self-Education and Skill Development:**

   - How Ayisha taught herself to code.

   - Resources and platforms she found most helpful.

   - The importance of community support and mentorship in her journey.

4. **Overcoming Doubts and Challenges:**

   - Discuss the obstacles Ayisha faced as a non-degree holder entering a technical field.

   - Strategies she used to overcome impostor syndrome and gain credibility.

5. **Landing the First Tech Job:**

   - The process of applying for tech jobs without a traditional background.

   - Ayisha’s experience with interviews and how she demonstrated her skills.

6. **Advice for Aspiring Tech Professionals Without a Degree:**

   - Ayisha’s tips for others looking to break into the tech industry.

   - Discuss the value of networking, continuous learning, and persistence.

7. **What’s Next for Ayisha:**

   - Ayisha’s current projects and future aspirations.

   - How she plans to give back to the community that supported her.

Where to connect with Ayisha 

• IG & Twitter @ayyskates

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In this episode. we delve into the remarkable journey of Olivia, a former real estate professional who made a bold transition into the world of programming and artificial intelligence. With zero prior tech experience, Olivia's story is one of determination, creativity, and innovation.

Join us as Olivia shares the challenges she faced while pivoting from property to programming, highlighting the hurdles she overcame and the lessons she learned along the way. Discover how her passion for building led her to craft innovative AI solutions from the ground up, transforming her side hustle into a thriving venture.

From navigating the complexities of coding to mastering the intricacies of AI development, Olivia's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the endless possibilities that emerge when we dare to venture beyond our comfort zones.

Tune in to gain insights, inspiration, and practical advice from Olivia's journey as she continues to redefine what's possible in the realms of technology and entrepreneurship.


Olivia's social media handles:

Instagram: Oliviaxtech
TechTok: Olivia.tech

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Key Highlights:

• Global Talent Triumph: Mark shares his experience obtaining the Global Talent Visa, which paved the way for his international tech career.
• Journey to Innovation: Learn about Mark's transition from Nigeria to the UK and how he navigated the challenges of relocation to pursue his passion for tech.
• The Dev Cards Launch: Discover how Mark's entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch Dev Cards, a groundbreaking product aimed at revolutionizing the tech community.

Connect with Mark:

• LinkedIn: Mark Okiki
• Instagram: @the_devcards | @prosquid

Follow Mark on LinkedIn and Instagram to stay updated on his latest projects, tech insights, and entrepreneurial endeavors.

Don't forget to subscribe to the Blaq Byte Podcast for more inspiring stories from the world of tech and innovation!

Subscribe to the Blaq Byte Podcast

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In this episode, join me as I unveil the power of engineering in combating online hate. Using my technical expertise, I'll take you through the intricate process of how I strategically tracked down and exposed a malicious online troll, capturing their toxic behavior in crystal-clear 4K resolution. Discover the intersection of technology and justice as I share the thrilling journey of leveraging engineering skills for a noble cause.

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In this episode, explore the crucial role of rest in professional transitions, gain valuable insights into effective networking, and discover practical tips for staying motivated and organized during career shifts. Don't miss out on the wisdom shared! Connect with Toye Akinoso (@toyeakinoso) for more valuable content and insights into building a successful career journey. #CareerShift #Networking #MotivationTips #ToyeAkinoso

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In this episode, we unravel the remarkable journey of Toye Akinoso, who defied the odds and transitioned from a finance background to become a senior developer in just 2 years. 

Discover the strategic shifts and specialized expertise that propelled Toye's ascent. Join us as we delve into the key milestones of his coding career and gain insights into his unique approach. 

Connect with Toye on LinkedIn and Instagram at @ToyeAkinoso. Don't miss this inspiring episode on the power of determination and specialisation in the tech world.

 #ToyeAkinoso #SeniorDeveloper #CodingJourney

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Welcome back to the Blaq Byte Podcast! In Part 2 of "Breaking Boundaries: Yasmin Benjamin's Meteoric Rise to Leadership in Big Four Tech Before 30," we continue our captivating conversation with Yasmin as she delves into the intricacies of juggling leadership, motherhood, and more.

Episode Breakdown:

• Recap of Part 1: A brief recap of Yasmin's journey to leadership in Big Four Tech before 30, setting the stage for the new insights in Part 2.
• Leadership Unveiled: Yasmin delves deeper into her leadership experiences, providing listeners with actionable advice and strategies for career growth.
• Motherhood and Career: Yasmin candidly discusses her experiences as a mother in the tech industry, offering a unique perspective on work-life balance.
• Advocacy for Diversity: Explore Yasmin's commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace and the tech community at large.

As we conclude Part 2, Yasmin leaves us with a wealth of inspiration, proving that it's possible to excel both professionally and personally. Stay tuned for more episodes of the Blaq Byte Podcast, where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the tech world.

Connect with Yasmin:

• LinkedIn - Yasmin Benjamin
• Instagram - @taila_sky
• Grab Yasmins new book here: https://tayloryasmin.gumroad.com/l/eyqci

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Welcome to the Blaq Byte Podcast! In this exciting episode titled "Breaking Boundaries: Yasmin Benjamin's Meteoric Rise to Leadership in Big Four Tech Before 30" (Part 1), we dive into the inspiring journey of Yasmin Benjamin as she achieves leadership success in the competitive world of Big Four Tech before turning 30.

As we wrap up Part 1 of this captivating episode, we leave you eagerly anticipating the continuation of Yasmin's incredible journey. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we delve deeper into Yasmin Benjamin's strategies for success, juggling Motherhood while being highly ambitious and her vision for the future.

Connect with Yasmin:

• Instagram - @taila_sky
• LinkedIn - Yasmin Benjamin
• Grab Yasmins new book here: https://tayloryasmin.gumroad.com/l/eyqci

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Welcome to Blaq Byte Podcast ! In this episode, titled "Navigating Uncertainty," I open up about my personal journey through job insecurity and share valuable insights gained from a conversation with career coach Renée-Louise. We delve into the challenges, emotions, and uncertainties that come with the prospect of redundancy, and Renée-Louise provides practical tips for resilience in the face of such challenges.

Closing Thoughts:

As we wrap up the episode, I leave you with a sense of empowerment and a renewed perspective on facing career uncertainties. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and together, we can navigate the path of uncertainty with resilience and strength.

Thank you for joining us on this insightful and candid episode of Blaq Byte Podcast! If you found value in today's conversation, don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review. Until next time, stay resilient!

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Happy new year folks!!!

In this episode, 🎙️ From Nigeria to the world, we uncover Aluka's  incredible journey in international Software Engineering, navigating challenges, and cracking the code review etiquette! 🚀✨ 

Hope you enjoy! <3 

Connect with Aluka via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chukwualuka-chiama/

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Today we are joined by the lovely Aluka, who studied Accounting at University and taught Math and Physics for 4 years before taking the leap into Software Engineering. 

In this episode, Aluka shares his insights as a self-taught developer and the journey into technology. We discuss  some painful pitfalls Aluka had along the way.l and how he bounced back.

Aluka shares how he landed his first international role as a Frontend Engineer while working from Nigeria, the importance of mentorship and documenting your projects and much more!

Hope you enjoy! <3 

Connect with Aluka via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chukwualuka-chiama/

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On this episode, we sat down with experienced Security Analyst Michael Ndon, who works remotely in the UK from Nigeria. He shares his challenges, struggles, what a typical day in the life looks like, stakeholder management and offers some amazing tips for career switchers and security professionals on how to level up their cybersecurity careers. 

You can find Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-a-ndon/

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On this episode, we sat down with experienced Security Analyst Michael Ndon, who works remotely in the UK from Nigeria. He shares his tips on how he builds a solid and credible network, the ways he up-skills and stays up to date with Security trends and how he found his job! 

You can find Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-a-ndon/

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Twitter: @shayAF_

Substack:  https://shayaf.substack.com/about

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Subscribe to the mailing list - www.blaqbyte.com
Follow us on instagram - https://www.instagram.com/blaqbyte/

Subscribe to the mailing list - www.blaqbyte.com
Follow us on instagram - https://www.instagram.com/blaqbyte/

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