Humanity, above all…

I was far from feeling like my authentic self when I first started at Baringa two years ago. However, my induction was done by a woman in a hijab - who looked just like me – and so, it immediately started removing some of my fears.

The most powerful thing, though, has been the Muslim Network, which I co-lead. It’s made up of more than 60 members and forms part of the wider interfaith network of different religions.

A powerful message of support

During last summer’s riots, in the Muslim Network, we were frightened. We had client engagements and responsibilities that we couldn't just drop, and we continued to travel on public transport. Baringa gave us the opportunity to work at home for a period and touched base with us to make sure we were okay.

The company then introduced Islamophobia awareness training for all staff, looking at the root causes and how best to tackle it. This sends a powerful message that we are supported. I don't know if many other companies would go to such lengths.

Breaking down barriers

Baringa is about humanity. It’s very people-focused and that’s a key factor for me. They recognise important religious events and last year, we held a celebration of Eid for people of all faiths, not just Muslims. We had a henna tattoo stall, arts and crafts, and people brought in different food from across the world.

Another time we marked Ramadan with some of our colleagues from different backgrounds joining us for the month-long fast - then breaking it together at an event held at head office.

Initiatives like this smash down barriers and bring people together.

Hiding who I was

If I was to do anything differently, I would have been more open about my religious beliefs. I used to try and hide the fact that I needed to pray five times a day. But I could have been clearer about how prayer is mandatory for me, instead of jeopardising it because of consulting requirements. I've been lucky that the clients I’ve worked with have had cultures in line with ours, along with facilities to pray.

Different client cultures

Baringa tries to ensure that we work with good, reputable clients. I don’t feel we are pushed into work just for the sake of it. Obviously, with consultancy, you must take a balanced approach and there are clients who expect consultants to be present all the time. But my prayer needs are a high priority, and it would upset me deeply if a client didn't understand that aspect of who I am.

Cultural challenges and the code

There are still challenges for those of us who are practising Muslims. We don’t drink alcohol and if you follow the Islamic faith properly, you know that backbiting and gossiping are frowned upon. The wider social culture usually takes place in a drinking environment where people relax and say things about others; several of us avoid these gatherings.

Despite this, Baringa is the workplace where I have felt closest to being my true, authentic self and I’m now far closer to the ‘who I am’ end of the authenticity code scale.

One big family from many different backgrounds

We all have a stereotypical view about people based on how they look. But the more you start having conversations about who you are, as people, the better. Baringa is growing and there’s always the fear that the people element may be lost in favour of growth. But I hope we can continue to be a people-first company. Baringa is like one big family from many different backgrounds. It’s a lovely place to work.