Adwoa “Adj” Awotwi
Adwoa “Adj” Awotwi
General Counsel, LocumTenens.com
Being inclusive comes naturally to Adwoa “Adj” Awotwi. “Wherever I am, I’ve always wanted to make sure that everyone feels respected, valued and heard,” says Awotwi, who is general counsel at LocumTenens.com.
Awotwi has been involved in DE&I for over 15 years now. Among her longtime efforts is her work with the Truancy Intervention Project, a nonprofit that provides advocacy, resources and services necessary to at-risk youth to ensure good attendance and success in school. Practicing law for the past two decades has also held Awotwi in good stead.
In 2020, she spearheaded the launch of an Inclusion Advisory Council to strengthen the company’s embrace of diverse perspectives and backgrounds; to promote an anti-racist, inclusive culture; and to foster open, educational and constructive conversation on issues of race and equality. Within the council, she facilitates monthly symposiums that enable associates to be open about their experiences with injustice to help them move toward a more equitable environment — both in and out of the office. Participation has doubled over the first three months, increasing the IAC network to 515 associates.
“Work isn’t above all. This is a real victory for me because people are participating and are willing to have tough conversations about life and more,” she adds.
Awotwi is the board vice president of NFCC, a nonprofit whose mission is to build self-sufficiency and prevent homelessness and hunger in her community by providing emergency assistance and enrichment programs. She is also an active member of Women’s Network, People of Color and the PRIDE Network within LocumTenens.com.
Looking at the future, Awotwi wants to initiate a mentoring program and create a platform for employees to share their stories about racism and cultural bias through short video clips.
“Even if I can bring about a change in just my company, then that’s enough for me because every step matters,” she adds.
2023 DE&I Influencers List