Bendigo and Adelaide Bank lights the way for celebration of diversity

Diversity and inclusiveness will take centre stage this Friday when Bendigo and Adelaide Bank staff celebrate Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights.

After successful Diwali celebrations in Adelaide last year, the Bank has amped up involvement for 2015, with an additional event scheduled for Bendigo.

On Friday 13 November, staff and their families will be invited to experience a range of traditional Indian food, dancing, music and activities, to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness.

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank strives to create an inclusive culture, where all staff members are treated with respect and are valued for their unique contribution to achieving group-wide success.

Key to the Bank's diversity and inclusiveness strategy is the observation of events such as Diwali and Harmony Day, which enables staff to celebrate multiculturalism and embrace the differences between each person.

Executive Corporate Resources and Chair of the Bank's Diversity and Inclusiveness Committee, Stella Thredgold, understands the value in having a diverse and inclusive workforce.

"Having a diverse and inclusive workforce is a reflection of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank's values and the type of culture our people, customers and stakeholders expect and want to create." "Diversity of background and experiences creates the type of innovative climate that brings out the best ideas and increases the likelihood they will be turned into action.

"We know that team success comes from the unique contribution of each individual."

All proceeds from both events will go to the Asha Foundation, a charitable organisation dedicated to assisting people in Indian slums to gain access to healthcare, financial services and education, and making it possible for them to make positive long-term changes to their lives.

Australia's Ambassador for Women and Girls and former Senator for South Australia, Natasha Stott Despoja AM, said she had seen first-hand the difference the Asha Foundation is making to the lives of women and girls in India by providing education and skills training.

"With each additional year of schooling, women have fewer children, better economic prospects and improved opportunities to become leaders in their communities.

"I look forward to joining the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank and the local South Australian community to celebrate Diwali.

"The ‘festival of lights' is a wonderful occasion to come together across cultures to support the important work of the Asha Foundation to empower women and girls."

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank is Australia's fifth-largest Bank, with the vision of being Australia's most customer-connected bank. To find out more, visit www.bendigoadelaide.com.au