The BSG is committed to developing a culture within the society where all individuals have equality of opportunity and inclusion, irrespective of protected characteristic (gender, ethnicity, disability, sexuality, gender identity/reassignment, age, religion, pregnancy and maternity) or geographical location. Our specialty is becoming increasingly diverse and we must ensure that our conference and event speaker panels reflect this diversity. A contributing factor to attrition in women and certain ethnic groups entering leadership and academic roles includes a perceived lack of similar role models. Speaker invitations enhance a presenter’s profile by increasing their visibility and networking opportunities, so it is vital that we embrace established and aspiring new talent.

With this in mind, the Supporting Women in Gastroenterology (SWiG) section of the BSG compiled and launched the “F-list”, a female speaker database on International Women’s Day this year. As part of the BSG’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, SWiG is now extending this database to include new speakers irrespective of gender. We would welcome fresh talent from lesser represented groups including women, minority ethnicities, district general hospitals, new consultants, trainees and allied health professionals. This list is organic and so we encourage speaker suggestions from all BSG members.

Follow this link to easily self-nominate or nominate others as speaker suggestions to be added to the list.

This Diverse Speakers database will be available at the BSG offices for judicious distribution on request by BSG members seeking a speaker based on their expertise for their event.  Please email comms@bsg.org.uk to access its contents.

Misha Kabir
BSG SWiG Chair

The BSG is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. Check out our new podcast series; Follow your gut – a SWiG Podcast, ran by the BSG SWiG committee. Tune in to the latest episodes here.

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