Throughout February, Arctic Wolf is celebrating Black History Month with a series of events that support our ability to thrive as individuals and collectively in our careers, mental health, and personal lives.
We’re intentionally amplifying Black voices, enriching our knowledge of Black history, highlighting the heritage and history of our Black Employee Alliance, and taking learning and connection opportunities with our colleagues throughout the Pack.
Today, we’re spotlighting Kemi Popoola, a People Manager and member of our Black Employee Alliance.
1. Can you tell us a little bit about your background and heritage?
I was born in the beautiful city of Lagos, Nigeria in West Africa. Nigeria is a country endowed with a lot of cultural heritages, natural landmarks, and wildlife reserves. I am a graduate of law with career experience as a legal consultant and HR professional. My Black heritage has taught me that resilience, perseverance, hard work, and a willingness to speak up and be heard are the keys to success and making change happen.
2. How has your race or ethnicity affected your workplace experiences?
Reflecting on my past and current workplace experiences, being a Black professional and an immigrant has presented challenges in navigating the workplace and excelling in my career. I have overcome my fair share of barriers, microaggressions, and limitations people of color face in their career journey. I learned from all these experiences, and they have contributed to my growth.
I am thankful for the wonderful people I have met in my career journey both past and present, who have contributed to my growth and provided me the space to continue to be myself while utilizing my skills, experiences, and background to thrive and make an impact.
This is what Arctic Wolf and our Pack Unity initiative is all about. Creating an environment where ALL members of our Pack, regardless of ethnicity, can be their authentic self at work, be in the same safe space with people who share similar backgrounds and can freely have those difficult conversations without judgement.
3. How do you think your unique perspective and experiences have contributed to the company/team?
I have always believed in the importance of creating an avenue for people to be heard, feel included and celebrated for their achievements.
One of the factors that influenced my decision to join Arctic Wolf was the company’s value statement of Innovation, People (we celebrate our people every day) and Diversity. These greatly resonate with me and since joining Arctic Wolf, I have had the privilege to work with leaders who inspire me to continue to innovate and have supported me in bringing to life many initiatives that have supported our DEI journey.
This vision statement has been impactful across the organization, and I am also delighted to be co-leading our Black Employee Alliance group and greatly appreciate the support from our Leaders.
Photo of Kemi Popoola
4. What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a time to appreciate and increase awareness of Black heritage, celebrate Black excellence and the past achievements of the Black community, and recognize our current contributions to humanity. Also, it is a time to appreciate our allies and their efforts in educating themselves and taking action to show solidarity to the “Black Lives Matter” movement.
5. What are the benefits of having a diverse company/workforce?
The benefit is like the saying “There is strength in diversity.” A diverse workforce will experience innovation, have a larger talent pool, improved cultural awareness and increased profitability. According to a McKinsey report, companies who focus the most on racial and ethnic diversity are 36% more likely to have financial returns that are above average for their industry. There is strong evidence that building a diverse workforce can directly boost business success.
I am happy to work for an organization where the leadership is intentional and continues to foster a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. #Strongertogether
