As an immigrant and a woman of color who has travelled and worked in several countries, Vaishali Shah knows firsthand the different perspectives, challenges and contributions of diverse populations. “Diversity is in my DNA. I created programs focused on diversity in organizations long before DE&I took such a mainstage,” she notes.
Having been in the staffing and recruiting industry for nearly two decades, Shah led global teams, created diversity strategies for organizations and client groups and developed programs to enhance DE&I impact both inside and outside her organizations. She helped change the culture and influence of her organizations through thought leadership, knowledge sharing and developing effective programs. In her role as the vice president of diversity and inclusion for Randstad Sourceright since 2021, she provides strategic guidance to enterprise clients on DE&I initiatives for their contingent workforce programs.
“Stepping into this newly created role when every organization is navigating the DE&I space for their total workforce is amazing. I’m honored to be working with such a forward-thinking team and clients,” she says.
Passionate about gender equity, Shah has helped develop corporate–community partnerships for STEM skills with high schools, colleges and organizations like the Girl Scouts of America. She is a mentor for emerging talent and participants of The Mom Project and Randstad’s Hire Hope and VSO programs. She is also a certified yoga instructor and helps organizations enhance the wellness and effectiveness of their employees through customized yoga, meditation and mindfulness programs. “What started as a personal journey for me has now become a continuation of everyone’s journey,” she concludes.
While many specialists focus on metrics, Shah believes that the workforce industry needs to think beyond the traditional parameters and really understand the purpose and vision behind an organization’s diversity strategy. “Diversity and inclusion is not just about tracking numbers. While data informs and guides efforts, it is important to drive deeper impact and create a culture that embraces diversity and enables every individual to thrive. And the way to do this is by really listening to the total workforce and ensuring that every individual is valued.”
2023 DE&I Influencers List