60. The fashion industry's secret D&I shame and what one industry CEO is doing about it with Jamie Gill

On the outside, the fashion industry paints a picture of inclusivity, but the backstage narrative tells a different story. In this episode of the D&Igest, we’re joined by Jamie Gill. Jamie is the Founder of The Outsider’s Perspective, a not-for-profit organisation that helps people from underrepresented groups break into the fashion industry. He also finds the time to hold a non-exec director seat, he’s on the board of the British Fashion Council and he’s a former CEO of luxury fashion brands. Jamie is a second-generation British-Indian, who grew up knowing he was gay from an early age. Jamie shares with us his fascinating story of how he navigated his early life and career in a society that asked a great deal more from him because of his background. Now, The Outsider’s Perspective, is dedicated to shattering the barriers that keep underrepresented people from entering the fashion and luxury industries.  In this episode, we cover -  The fashion industry’s secret D&I shame. Jamie’s journey as a second-generation British-Indian and as a gay man and the challenges that this brought up. Jamie’s struggle with showing up as his authentic self and how this affected his career. Why it’s so important for people to have figureheads who can inspire them and what happens when they don’t. How organisations can benefit from diverse teams. Why it’s such a challenge to get a foot in the door of the fashion industry. How to get involved with The Outsider’s Perspective. LEARN MORE The Outsider’s Perspective - https://www.theoutsidersperspective.org/ Diversely - https://www.diversely.io/ Diversely on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/diverselyio/ CONNECT Jamie Gill on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-gill-64870080 Helen McGuire on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenmcguireme/ Diversely on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/diverselyio/ LISTEN Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0FRssDsAUpx1WCbxDfvFoG Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-d-igest-a-diversely-podcast/id1607041648