The Diversity Factor

The Diversity

Factor

Empower. Educate. Transform.

Helping organizations create Belonging through DEI using sustainable solutions that go beyond a One-and-Done workshop.

"Equity and Anti-racism action can be thoughtful and impactful without the overcomplication and overwhelm."

- Melissa Punambolam, Founder

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simplify anti-racism and DEi Action with science and strategy.

At The Diversity Factor,

we understand the importance of creating inclusive and equitable environments where everyone feels valued, respected and heard. The concept of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion may be complex, but it can be simplified for organizations with the right approach. That is why our founder, Melissa Punambolam, and our incredible team of experts are committed to providing tailored, strategic and impactful consulting services in the areas of Anti-racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

We work with a cutting edge roster of evidence-based advisors, strategists, clinicians, and educators, who have the resources and tools to help organizations achieve their DEI goals. With a deep understanding of the challenges that organizations face, we provide a full range of services to help create more inclusive work environments while addressing systemic barriers to progress further in the direction of Belonging.

Whether you're looking to enhance your organization's DEI policies, improve learning and development programs, or develop an overall anti-racism strategy, our team is here to help. Our services are tailored to each client's specific needs and are dedicated to delivering sustainable results.

We use a holistic approach to Anti-racism and DEI using intersectionality, daring discussions and behavioural science. Together, let's work towards a more diverse and inclusive future.

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Land Acknowledgement

We, as people living and working in the Greater Toronto Area, would like to acknowledge and honour the land on which we live, work and gather. We recognize that this land is the traditional territory of the Huron-Wendat, Petun, Seneca, and most recently, the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.

We are grateful for the opportunity to work both remotely, in-person on this land, and to benefit from the ongoing stewardship of the Indigenous peoples who have cared for this land for thousands of years. We acknowledge the ongoing impact of colonialism and the displacement of Indigenous peoples from their ancestral lands.

We stand in gratitude and respect for the land, its rich cultural heritage, and the Indigenous peoples who continue to shape the vibrant community we live and work in. We are committed to learning about the history and cultures of the Indigenous peoples of this land and to working towards reconciliation and justice for all.

WHY US? Why now?

With over 20 years of experience, Melissa Punambolam has worked with a wide range of industries and sectors, from small businesses to large companies. This experience has taught us that there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to DEI - every organization is unique, and we take the time to understand each client's specific needs in order to create tailored solutions that work. We go beyond one-and-done workshops, offering learning experiences that replace checkbox training with simple yet impactful tools, strategies, and processes for behavioural change.

Belonging in the workplace is more important than ever. Organizations that can foster an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and heard will have a market advantage. Anti-Racism and DEI are the new 'X-Factor' and The Diversity Factor exists to help get you there.

"Strategy on its own is not enough. Training on its own isn't enough.

Action without reflection is not enough. Together, though, these dimensions

forge purpose, confidence and transformation." - Melissa Punambolam

Business and Belonging: Our Approach

At The Diversity Factor, we believe that every organization and company can establish and build upon a unique edge, which we call The Diversity Factor. In fact, we understand that identifying opportunities for impact in the short, medium, and long-term is key to designing and improving this X-Factor.

Our strategies, facilitated discussions and training experiences cover important topics including (but not limited to):

Microaggressions
Intersectionality
Gender equity
Allyship in action
Bias to Behavioural Change
Donor privilege
Employee Resource Group (ERG) program development
Leading meetings with Safety and Belonging
Preventing Burnout in DEI work
We collaborate with you to determine the best group size and format for achieving a sustainable model for behavioural change.

We know that building an inclusive work environment and culture is crucial, which is why we take the time to learn about your existing efforts and the way forward through training and development. Our goal is to equip you and your team with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster a truly inclusive workplace and community.

Whether you're starting out or looking to expand your diversity and inclusion initiatives, we're here to help you get down to business and belonging.

Sector and Industry Experience

Government

(Clinical Intervention, Policy, Evaluation, Data and Financial Stewardship, Governance, Program Development)

Non-Profit

(Violence Against Women, Homelessness, Mental Health, Child Welfare, Program Development)

Health Care

(Policy, Direct Service, Mental Health, Pandemic Planning)

Education

(Clinical Intervention, Administration, Research, Direct Service)

Fundraising

Grant Selection

Community Development, Partnerships and Collective Impact

Anti-Black Racism, Anti-Indigenous Racism, BIPOC and Gender Equity analysis, evaluation, training and development to support organizations in building safe workplace cultures.

Melissa Punambolam

Founder

Meet Our Founder

Melissa Punambolam

Melissa Punambolam is a leading Wellness and DEI Strategist who has combined her Social Work background with coaching, policy, system leadership, and wellness consulting experience to deliver impactful and meaningful results. With over 20 years of experience working in various industries and sectors, Melissa is equipped with the skills and perspective necessary to work in both smaller settings and complex organizations.

As a consultant at KEVRA: The Culture Company, Melissa helps HR leaders and Chief Diversity Officers increase retention and productivity from diverse staffing teams and build inclusive working environments. She has a proven track record of managing projects effectively, including serving as a Program Supervisor for the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services and as a Project Manager for the Office of System Innovation at the Region of Peel. In this role, she transformed the Human Services Department and reviewed policies, processes, and practices for a $150 million childcare fee subsidy program to ensure efficiency, effectiveness and positive client-centred outcomes.

Melissa holds a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University, specializing in Community, Policy, Programs, and Organizations. She also earned a Bachelor of Social Sciences from the University of Ottawa and a Bachelor of Social Work, where she developed strong individual and group intervention skills. As a Social Worker for the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, Melissa led the research and implementation of a diversity policy at the Ministry of Children and Youth Service, Youth Justice Services Division. She is also the CEO and Founder of Life Designer Consulting, the first woman-owned company providing whole-life wellness and gender equity services. Her work is driven and applied through anti-Black racism, allyship, and trauma-informed lenses.

Melissa's impressive track record and consistently positive results unequivocally prove her exceptional ability to expertly manage projects and transform organizations. As a highly skilled consultant, coach, and strategist, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her work, ensuring that clients achieve their desired outcomes with confidence and ease.