The DEI4SME team and organisers of the students’ hackathon in Kaunas, Lithuania, are delighted to discuss with Dr. Jurgita Butkevičienė, Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship and Sustainability and DEI4SME Project Manager at Kaunas University of Technology, about her motivation to organise the DEI4SME students’ hackathon. She leads a dynamic team dedicated to making this event both meaningful and impactful.
Interviewer: Thank you for being with us today. First of all, we would love to hear about your motivation and experiences regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). To begin, could you please share your personal connection to DEI. What experiences or events in your life have inspired you to engage in efforts related to diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Jurgita: My engagement with various underrepresented groups began during my volunteering activities, particularly while leading the International Women’s Association of Vilnius. As Chair of the Executive Committee, I had the opportunity to work with a diverse group of women and support disadvantaged communities. This experience deepened my empathy for their struggles. Hearing their stories made me acutely aware of the significant challenges they face in employment and entrepreneurship, which resonated deeply with me. It ignited a passion for active involvement in research and educational initiatives focusing on social sustainability and entrepreneurship. I believe that building more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems is crucial for empowering these groups and fostering a more inclusive society.
In addition, I gained practical experience in DEI management while managing a small enterprise in Lithuania that employed a diverse team across dimensions such as gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and abilities. This role provided invaluable insights into the complexities and benefits of managing a diverse workforce. I observed how diverse perspectives enriched our organisational culture through unique ideas and innovation. This experience reinforced my belief that fostering inclusivity is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage in today’s competitive business landscape.
Interviewer: That’s incredibly impactful. Your experiences clearly shape your commitment to DEI. Speaking of commitment, who or what has inspired you the most in promoting DEI, and how has that influence shaped your approach?
Jurgita: One of my greatest inspirations has been my close friend, who cares for her disabled daughter. Witnessing the daily challenges they face opened my eyes to the harsh realities encountered by caregivers and individuals with disabilities. This personal connection motivated me to engage more deeply in DEI initiatives. I realised that by advocating for this community, I could contribute to a broader movement toward equitable opportunities. This experience shaped my approach to be more empathetic and understanding, ensuring I actively listen to the needs and voices of marginalised groups while striving for solutions that genuinely make a difference.
Interviewer: Your story reflects a strong personal motivation behind your advocacy. What core values drive your passion for DEI, and how do these values influence your work and interactions with others in this initiative?
Jurgita: My core values are integrity and honesty. Integrity is fundamental in building trust, particularly when working with vulnerable communities. It obliges me to approach my work with transparency and accountability, staying true to my commitments and the needs of the groups I serve. Honesty is equally critical, as it fosters open discussions about the challenges and barriers within DEI efforts. This value encourages me to create an environment where individuals feel safe sharing their experiences and perspectives, leading to more meaningful outcomes. Together, these values guide my leadership and collaboration, reminding me that inclusivity begins with authenticity and respect for everyone involved.
Interviewer: Those values are essential in driving meaningful change. Speaking of change, what is your vision for change? What transformations do you hope to see as a result of your DEI work, and what motivates you to strive for these changes?
Jurgita: My vision for change focuses on creating a truly inclusive workplace where diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated. I want to see policies and practices that actively promote equity, ensuring everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources. I imagine a work culture where all employees feel valued and empowered to share their unique perspectives, which can enhance innovation and creativity within the organisation.
What motivates me is my belief in the transformative power of diversity. When diverse voices are included in decision-making, organisations are better equipped to address the needs of their customers and communities. This belief drives me to advocate for systemic improvements, engage in ongoing education about DEI, and challenge the status quo to create a more equitable environment.
Interviewer: That’s a strong vision. Finally, let’s reflect on your personal growth through these initiatives. How has your involvement in DEI initiatives contributed to your personal and professional growth, and what skills or insights have you gained through this experience?
Jurgita: My involvement in DEI initiatives has significantly enriched both my personal and professional life. Professionally, I’ve developed critical skills such as cultural competency and active listening, which are essential for engaging effectively with diverse groups. I’ve also learned to design more inclusive educational practices that address the unique needs of different communities.
On a personal level, this journey has deepened my empathy and understanding of the social issues faced by historically less-represented groups. It also has encouraged me to reflect on my own biases and privileges, prompting continuous self-improvement. These experiences have not only shaped my career but also instilled a sense of purpose and commitment to advocacy that I carry into every aspect of my life.
Interviewer: Thank you a lot for sharing your thoughts!