Rewriting the Code
Workplace subculture has long been ingrained with a ‘code’ of normality.
This code consists of unwritten rules and beliefs that establish a rhetoric of how, or how not to behave to fit in. Written to serve certain majority or powerful groups, this code therefore rests on an assumed homogeneity that does not exist.
Some therefore find themselves situated farther from the code, needing to change parts of themselves to greater degrees than others to assimilate. Here they face a double bind; sacrifice authenticity or diverge from the code. And where non-conformity and embracing authenticity carries social and reputational risk, the decision is complex.
This series of personal journey articles showcases stories of our wonderful Baringa employees. They share their experience of the ‘code’ at Baringa, throughout their career, and as individuals.
Through these personal narratives, the series aims to unravel Baringa's code, exploring its impact on our people and seeking opportunities for its redefinition.
Our objective is to instigate social and organisational change within Baringa and beyond, fostering an environment where our people feel liberated to bring their genuine and best selves to work.
We trust that these stories will provide insights, wisdom, and empathy. They are intended to demonstrate that authenticity is an act of courage, beauty, and, fundamentally, a necessity in the workplace.
Supporting different versions of our authentic selves
Parris Lougheed, Executive Assistant, describes her journey as a Black woman discovering the code and finding support throughout Baringa. She believes that rewriting the code must be authentic and allow us to bring our everchanging true selves to work. Parris recently became a parent, and this means discovering a new code, and a new version of her working self.
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Dancing with the code
Sam Bennett reflects on navigating the code, moving beyond early imposter syndrome, the support they found at Baringa, and why broader industry change is vital.
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Wonder Woman doesn’t exist…
Olena Isaieva reflects on the power of support systems in her career and how her experiences in male‑dominated environments help her champion others at Baringa.
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Freeing the chameleon
From law to consulting, James Hampshire spent years adapting to fit in. After a pivotal diagnosis, he reflects on removing the mask and embracing his true self.
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Listening, learning and reflecting together
Sagar Shah, a first‑generation immigrant and financial services expert, shares how he has challenged norms and what bringing his full self to Baringa means.
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Be a codebreaker
Naeem Randeree shares how navigating two different cultures shaped his adaptability and hopes for the future of diversity, equality and inclusion at Baringa.
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Humanity, above all…
Shaheen Syed shares how she overcame hesitation about her daily prayers, found support at Baringa and the value of a workplace that respects her faith.
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Creating flex to cross cultural divides
After decades in consulting, Martyn Smith reflects on mistakes made bridging cultural gaps and how embracing local values can build stronger global connections.
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No longer hiding my background
Amy Salmon, expert in Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences, shares her realisation of hiding her roots and how Baringa’s social mobility network supports her.
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My journey from fitting in to standing out…
Roxanne D’Souza, a Baringa partner, shares her journey from fitting in to standing out, how her diversity became a strength, and what she continues to learn.
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Boundaries to protect myself and the way I work
Joel Loong, expert in Energy and Resources in Singapore discusses neurodiversity at work and championing your personal ways of working for success.
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The right cheerleaders at the right levels
Jasmin Jenkinson, expert in Energy and Resources, talks on disclosing sexuality at work and how Baringa has grown and how it can continue to champion authenticity.
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Aspiring to be me, not one of many
Tyrone Salami explores the challenges of assimilating in the workplace as a Black male, highlighting the gap between authenticity and conformity.
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Chris Nott on social mobility: hiring people, not profiles
Chris Nott, Partner in Financial Services in Australia, discusses the importance of hiring a person, not a social background and how Baringa has evolved over 15 years.
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Anneka Sheikh: faith, gender, and ethnicity
Anneka Sheikh, Senior Vetting and Screening Advisor, discusses being of faith, female and an ethnic minority, and the experiences she's faced in her career and at Baringa.
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Danny Lin: a unique voice in Leadership
Danny Lin, Partner in Supply Chain and Procurement US, shares his experience hailing from an ethnic minority, and being an introvert in an extroverted culture.
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