Reflecting on Growth & Allyship

As we recently wrapped up Black History Month, I’ve been reflecting on the meaningful events my company offers to recognize the occasion. Throughout the month, we hosted a series of Signature Events designed to foster learning and encourage dialogue. We heard from leaders across the organization about how we can build bridges and create an environment where everyone feels safe, heard, and valued. 

As I participated in these events, I was struck by how my perspective has expanded over the past year. Allow me to share what I mean. 

This past year, I had the privilege of joining a program my company offers senior leaders called “Allies.” This program was designed to help participants deepen their understanding of what it means to be an ally, develop greater self-awareness, and become more equipped to support others within the organization. The program included an in-person workshop followed by monthly cohort sessions. 

To be honest, when I first signed up, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. But the experience turned out to be far more impactful than I could have imagined. It broadened my perspective on important topics like race, gender, privilege, and bias. I gained a clearer understanding of what these terms really mean, and, more importantly, I learned the language necessary to engage in meaningful conversations around these topics. The program also provided me the opportunity to listen to my colleagues’ personal journeys and understand how their experiences have shaped both their lives and their work. 

This year, as part of my ongoing learning, I’ll be participating in another program called “On the Matter of Race.” The pre-read for this program is a book titled Mindful of Race. This initiative will dive deeper into systemic racism and continue to explore themes of bias, privilege, and allyship. 

I’m incredibly grateful to work for a company that is committed to investing in its people and their development. As I begin my prep work for this next program, I’m filled with excitement, a bit of nervousness, and a lot of curiosity about what I’m going to learn. But, more than anything, I am committed to using what I learn to elevate my voice and contribute to meaningful change. 

As you reflect on the past year, I encourage you to consider: What experiences have helped broaden your view or deepen your understanding? How can you use those insights to become a better employee, leader, colleague, or friend? 

Bio: Tricia Atchison is the VP, WW Partner & Americas Marketing for Equinix. Prior to joining Equinix, Tricia was the VP, WW Partner Engagement & Experience at Citrix, where she was responsible for the development and execution of high impact global partner marketing and enablement programs and framework to support Citrix's strategic partner objectives. She has also held various partner and marketing leadership positions with CA Technologies, Seagate Software, Veritas Software and Symantec. Tricia is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a B.S.B.A. degree in Business. She is a member of the Women of the Channel Advisory Board and has been recognized as a Women of the Channel each year since 2012.