Charlie Hopkinson, owner of Dragoman and chair of Aito’s DEI committee, said he wanted to encourage Aito members to implement DEI policies in their own businesses.

“Our big goal is to help you guys understand it all so that it becomes a central part of your business," said Hopkinson. "We want to help the Aito family understand the benefits and want to help you create a place of inclusivity in your business.” 

He said the association aimed to achieve this through tools including a resource library and training programme.

Aito will also survey members in May to support them on their DEI journeys, he said. Hopkinson added Aito would seek to adopt a commitment to DEI as part of its members charter to include the following wording:

“Our members acknowledge the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion throughout their businesses. Members understand the benefits that come from embracing these principles to the business itself and its products as well as to the employees, clients, suppliers, and the wider community. Our members will strive to ensure that their businesses to embrace all three concepts and Aito will help its members to achieve this.”