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Inclusion is Innovation
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INCLUSION IS INNOVATION

We’re activating the same ingenuity, intention, and experience behind our most
groundbreaking technological innovations to develop solutions to the diversity
and inclusion challenges in our workplace and our world.
Watch video



STORIES BEHIND THE INNOVATION

You can’t make a breakthrough without breaking something: systems that don’t
support us all, barriers that prevent access, mindsets that no longer serve us.
Explore these stories to learn more.

Video


GIVING FONTS A PURPOSE – ACROSS CULTURE AND ABILITY

As a member of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Greg Hitchcock, knows the importance of
preserving the emotion and expression of native languages. As Principal Software
Engineering Manager for Microsoft, he aims to work with fonts and characters to
further protect and archive sacred languages in the digital landscape. 1 of 22


Video


GROWING DAY BY DAY

After her family experienced bankruptcy when she was young, Gabriela Olmos-Hill
learned how to fix things the only way she knew how — through community. Now
she’s set on driving growth bit by bit every day. 2 of 22




PROACTIVE TRANSPARENCY

As one of the most transparent multinationals of our size, we have proactively
shared our data on representation and inclusion since 2013 – assessing where we
made progress and where we still need to improve. 3 of 22


Video


FREEDOM IN SELF-EXPRESSION

Emerging from a journey of self-discovery and embracing their nonbinary
identity, Caroline Scalley, senior business administrator at Microsoft, embodies
resilience. Drawing from their Puerto Rican heritage and love for
self-expression, Caroline blends humor with originality and compassion in their
role, redefining norms through unique understanding. 4 of 22


Video


“YOU ARE ENOUGH. YOU WOULDN’T BE HERE IF SOMEONE HERE DIDN’T THINK YOU WERE
INCREDIBLE.”

Raised with values rooted in her Japanese heritage, Megumi Voight found solace
in community during deployments while in the military. Now as a managing editor
of customer storytelling at Microsoft, she empowers global voices, advocating
for authenticity and reminding others of their inherent worth. 5 of 22


Video


UTILIZING YOUR SUPERPOWER

Armed with what he calls “super empathy,” Joao Madureira, principal customer
reliability engineer at Microsoft, harnesses inclusivity as his strength. As a
gay man and a Latino, he activates allyship in the workplace, ensuring all
voices are heard. His actions have not only brought in new talent but also
propelled inclusivity forward. 6 of 22




COMPANYWIDE ACTION

We expect everyone to participate in creating a culture of inclusion. All
employees set an annual performance and development goal related to D&I, known
as the D&I Core Priority. 7 of 22


Video


NEAR AND DEAR

Keepsakes that get passed through generations of a connected family can unlock
hidden characteristics of our colleagues. Cynthia Bryant presents us with some
of hers that showcase her mom’s creativity and how she encourages herself to
fly. 8 of 22


Video


“YOUR UNIQUENESS MAKES YOU WHO YOU ARE.” 

Inspired by her early love for fantasy and gaming, Christina Parker champions
diversity and representation in the gaming industry, explaining the accuracy of
portrayals and the importance of players seeing themselves in the virtual worlds
they love.  9 of 22


Video


TOSH’S JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

There are artifacts in our lives that represent how we connect to the world
around us. Tosh Hudson shares how journaling, music, and plants, for him,
represent a willingness to release, learn, and grow. 10 of 22


Video


ART OF CHERISHING MEMORIES

Sometimes our possessions remind us of our favorite places or home. Athena Chang
shares the items that take her back to Taiwan, Prague, and New York. 11 of 22


Video


WHEN INNOVATION AND PASSION COLLIDE

Jerome Collins discusses the influence of his father’s guidance, his passion for
art and music, and his innovative approach to driving positive change and
representation in his professional sphere. 12 of 22


Video


“AT THE END OF THE DAY, I THINK THAT’S WHAT PEOPLE WANT: TO BE HEARD.” 

Guided by a gift for listening and a commitment to motherhood, Erin Jagelski
shares how she navigated post-maternity challenges and pioneered support
networks for parents in the workplace by blending her passion and leadership to
foster inclusive environments.  13 of 22


Video


MELISSA CURRY’S TREASURES OF HERITAGE AND ACHIEVEMENT

Our possessions showcase the things that really matter to us. Melissa Curry
unveils the artifacts that encapsulate her heritage, achievements, and bonds
that shape her. Tell us about the artifacts that weave the fabric of your
story.  14 of 22


Article


I DON’T HAVE THE OPTION TO BE SHY

Gonçalo Mendes has always yearned for independence. His journey with cerebral
palsy led him from relying on others for care to taking care of others. 15 of 22


Animated Story


EMBRACE YOUR IDENTITY, EMBRACE LIFE

Kimberly Marreros Chuco discusses embracing one’s unique identity and learning
from challenges, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and accepting
mistakes as part of growth, inspired by her experiences moving from an Andean
mining town.
Featured Artist: Tai Silva 16 of 22


Video


ASHLEY WITHERSPOON INNOVATOR’S INVENTORY AND THE BIG PLANS SHE’S MADE

Our personal treasures hold the stories of who we are. Ashley Witherspoon shares
the tangible symbols of her values and journey. What mementos narrate your
life’s chapters? 17 of 22


Animated Story


THIS IS MY SAZÓN

Ivelisse Capellan Heyer is a user experience designer who uses patience and her
family to combat her own self-doubt.
Featured Artist: Sol Cotti 18 of 22


Animated Story


NURTURING INNER PEACE

When Ethan Alexander started at Microsoft, he prioritized money over his
wellbeing. Twelve years later, the senior customer success account manager and
D&I storytelling host knows that the only way to truly take care of others is to
first take care of yourself. Discover his story of gratitude and growth.
Featured Artist: Camila Abdanur 19 of 22


Animated Story


MASTER OF MESSINESS

As a mom and a tech leader, Elaine Chang has learned to embrace the chaos and
put her “octopus mind” to work in service of innovation, at work and at home.
Featured Artist: Niege Borges 20 of 22


Animated Story


WHAT LEADERS LOOK LIKE

Shrivaths Iyengar worried that coworkers would be reluctant to follow a leader
who had disabilities. Instead, he discovered that his experiences made him a
stronger, more empathetic manager.
Featured Artist: Ananya Rao-Middleton 21 of 22


Animated Story


EXPERIENCING BOTH SIDES

As a child, Ana Sofia Gonzalez crossed between Juárez, Mexico , and El Paso,
Texas, every day to go to school. Learning how to live, communicate, and connect
in both cultures has made her a better designer, mentor, and innovator.
Featured Artist: Dai Ruiz 22 of 22




“IF THERE'S A FAMILY ISSUE…YOU HAVE
ENOUGH GRACE TO BE ABLE TO TAKE CARE OF IT.”

After balancing work and caring for her son as he dealt with challenges to his
eyesight, Cynthia Bryant activated her courage. Now, she strives to manage her
team with grace, strength and truth in moments where they are also balancing
family life and career.
Watch video



COMMUNITIES

Anything is possible when everyone is included. Discover stories told by
Microsoft employees and illustrated by members of their communities at Microsoft
and around the world.
Asian and Pacific Islander   ✕ Black and African American   ✕ Disability   ✕
Families   ✕ Hispanic and Latinx   ✕ Indigenous   ✕ LGBTQIA+   ✕ Military   ✕
Women   ✕
Video


HONORING HERITAGE AND SELF

Staci Pendergress, Sr. Software Engineer at Microsoft, attributes her resilience
and willingness to listen to her Indigenous heritage. As the first in her family
to be born and raised off the Blackfeet reservation and graduate from college,
she honors her parents’ sacrifices by advocating for representation in the tech
world.
Video


GIVING FONTS A PURPOSE – ACROSS CULTURE AND ABILITY

As a member of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Greg Hitchcock, knows the importance of
preserving the emotion and expression of native languages. As Principal Software
Engineering Manager for Microsoft, he aims to work with fonts and characters to
further protect and archive sacred languages in the digital landscape.
Video


TELLING INDIGENOUS STORIES IN GAMING

Crediting her Cherokee roots, Gillian Vaughn, Software Engineer at Microsoft,
takes pride in seeing the value in everything around her. Now she’s made it her
mission to show that Indigenous Peoples, culture, and stories are valuable in
tech and gaming as well.


TRANSFORMING LEADERSHIP

We have added $150 million to strengthen inclusion and double the number of US
Black and African American, and Hispanic and Latinx people managers, senior
individual contributors, and senior leaders by 2025.
Video


FINDING A SENSE OF BELONGING

As a young mom, Diana Gonzalez experienced imposter syndrome. Her personal
journey helped her overcome it and she’s now a Senior Cloud Solution Architect
at Microsoft. Diana also gets to pursue a childhood interest, writing for
Fashion at Microsoft.
Video


A PATH FOR THE GAMERS

Utilizing the resourcefulness he feels is intrinsic to his Brazilian heritage,
Daniel Martins, Xbox Loyalty Marketing Lead at Microsoft, set out to help young
Latin-Americans get into gaming with programs like Imagine Cup.
Video


GROWING DAY BY DAY

After her family experienced bankruptcy when she was young, Gabriela Olmos-Hill,
Senior Director at Microsoft, learned how to fix things the only way she knew
how — through community. Now she’s driving the business forward every day.
Video


A CAPTAIN’S TREASURE

We hold on to items over time and watch them become symbolic for where we’ve
been and what we’ve done. For Petrus Johnson, an essay, insignia, and audiobook
all hold significance to his path so far.
Video


A JOURNEY DEFINED BY WINGS AND WORDS

For Vishal Amin, relics like his “thinking ball,” his first wings earned in the
US Marine Corps, and treasured letters from his family offer comfort and remind
him of who he is and what he’s both accomplished and overcome. These objects
help to portray Vishal’s journey of duty, sacrifice, and gratitude.
Video


ART OF CHERISHING TRAVEL

Sometimes our possessions remind us of our favorite places or home. Athena Chang
shares the items that take her back to Taiwan, Prague, and New York. Join the
conversation and share with us what items remind you of the places you’ve been.
Video


TOSH’S JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

There are artifacts in our lives that represent how we connect to the world
around us. Tosh Hudson shares how journaling, music, and plants, for him,
represent a willingness to release, learn and grow. Join the conversation, and
tell us about what artifacts carry a deeper meaning in your life.
Video


NEAR AND DEAR

Keepsakes that get passed through generations of a connected family can unlock
hidden characteristics of our colleagues. Cynthia Bryant presents us with some
of hers that showcase her mom’s creativity and how she encourages herself to
fly. What cherished keepsakes have passed through the hands of your family?
Video


POWER OF EMPATHY IN EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP

After balancing work and caring for her son as he dealt with challenges to his
eyesight, Cynthia Bryant activated her courage. Now, she strives to manage her
team with grace, strength and truth in moments where they are also balancing
family life and career.
Video


EMBRACING CHOSEN FAMILY

With an appreciation of chosen families and defining relationships on our own
terms, Tosh Hudson, director at Microsoft, shares his lifestyle of ethical
nonmonogamy and champions nontraditional ways of connecting with people.
Video


NURTURING CULTURAL COMMITMENT

Inspired by her son, Athena Chang navigates her career and motherhood with
empathy and resilience. Marked by familial support and the importance of
cultural preservation as she raises her own family, she shares a deep connection
with her clients.
Animated Video


INNOVATING BEYOND THE MIND’S EYE

Emmanuelle Rodrigues Nunes has an invisible disability that prevents her from
visualizing things in her mind. Now she proves that she can do anything that
anybody else can, working passionately to spread awareness of aphantasia.
Illustrated by Dana Kearly.
Article


BRINGING MY COLLECTIVE SELF TO PROBLEM SOLVING

Cambodian-born American immigrant Sopheak Neak is on a journey to realize his
own identity and in doing so, creating safe spaces and resources for his
community—inside and outside of Microsoft.
Animated Video


NO SHAME

Thiago struggled to keep his ADHD and anxiety a secret, until working through a
mental health crisis led him to realize that his differences brought a unique
perspective to his work. Illustrated by Jason Wilsher-Mills.
Article


RETHINKING REMOTE

During the pandemic, Experience Lead Sascha Ackermann and his team set out to
make meetings and events more inclusive, for both remote and on-site teams. The
result was Microsoft’s first hybrid event room.
Article


THE POWER OF EMPATHY

For Customer Success Account Manager Thad Stafford, living with PTSD, anxiety,
and substance abuse disorder empowers him to connect more intentionally with
customers.
Animated Video


NICHOLE’S BALANCING ACT 

Nichole was used to juggling her job, her life, and her anxiety. At a time when
she achieved her biggest professional goal, she found that her mental health
threatened to bring it all crashing down. Jonathan Soren illustrates Nichole’s
story of connection, growth, and the search for balance.
Animated Video


FREEDOM IN UNCOVERING

Manuel Pereira has been navigating life with epilepsy. From concealing his
condition to being vocal about his needs, Manuel shares a journey of strength,
acceptance, and the power of a supportive workplace, illustrated by Fred
Campbell.
Article


LESSONS ON FATHERHOOD AND RESILIENCE FROM MY SIKH UPBRINGING

Senior Customer Engineer Davinder Pal Singh channels the teachings from his
faith and family life into meaningful representation of Sikhism in tech.
Article


NEW WORLD VIEWS

Diagnosed with a visual disability in her teens, Senior Product Manager Nidhi
Jain advocates for assistive technologies in the workplace designed to meet
people where they are.
Article


FROM COVERING MY IDENTITY TO EMBRACING IT

Raised by Vietnamese refugees and in nondiverse communities, Director of
Customer Success Ngoc Dinh now helps provide a safe, welcoming space for AAPI
self-identified colleagues.
Animated Video


WHAT LEADERS LOOK LIKE

Shrivaths worried that coworkers would be reluctant to follow a leader with
disabilities. Instead, he discovered that his experiences made him a stronger,
more empathetic manager. Illustrated by Ananya Rao-Middleton.
Video


PLANTING SEEDS, CULTIVATING PERSONAL GROWTH

Our possessions sometimes serve as personalized markers of our growth. Sonja Gu
shares with us her avocado plant, which serves as a symbol of her personal
evolution.
Video


A MOTHER’S LOVE

Meet Megumi Voight, whose possessions speak volumes about her journey. From her
mother’s protective amulet to a cherished challenge coin marking professional
growth, each item resonates with Megumi’s personal evolution and resilience.
Video


THE POWER OF AN OPEN HEART AND MIND

Sometimes we possess intangible items that are useful ideals that we carry with
us. Naval Tripathi shares with us three tools within his spiritual inventory
that act as his most treasured possessions.
Video


ALWAYS ROOM TO GROW

Drawing empathy from her upbringing in China and her mother’s resilience, Sonja
Gu, a product marketing manager at Microsoft, transitioned from banking to tech
with a goal in mind: to pioneer solutions and foster company evolution.
Overcoming introversion, she now confidently contributes in a way that reflects
her own growth.
Animated Video


EVERYTHING HAS A SOLUTION

Jose Hernandez is a data scientist that uses the lessons instilled by his
parents to find solutions to the challenges around him. Discover his story,
illustrated by Sebastian Curi.
Animated Video


PERSONAL TECH

For Pablo Veramendi, director of Audience Evangelism, responsible innovation is
more than a professional mandate: it’s part of his job as a dad. Illustrated by
Phoenix Owens.
Animated Video


EXPERIENCING BOTH SIDES

Ana Sofia Gonzalez grew up in Mexico but went to school in El Paso. Discover how
moving between two cultures helped make her a better graphic designer. Discover
Ana’s story, illustrated by artist Dai Ruiz
Article


GREAT EXPECTATIONS

When Colombian-born Joseph Sefair interviewed at Microsoft fresh out of graduate
school, he was not expecting to get the job. Twenty-two years later, he
continues to advocate for recruiting people from around the globe.
Animated Video


CITIZEN OF THE WORLD

Sandra Valle is originally from Mexico, living in Estonia, and managing
orientation for new employees from all over the world. Explore how her
experience embracing new cultures prepared her to face challenges head-on in her
animated story by artist Niege Borges.
Animated Video


BRING YOURSELF TO WORK

Rodrigo grew up undocumented and felt like he lived in the shadows. When he
joined a group of Microsoft volunteers translating for refugees at the U.S.
border, he rediscovered his light. Brought to life by artist Daiana Ruíz
Animated Video


THIS IS MY SAZÓN

Ivelisse Capellan Heyer is a user experience designer that uses patience and her
family to combat her own self-doubt. Watch how her journey has unfolded,
illustrated by Sol Cotti.
Animated Video


GOOD ENERGY

Mekonnen Kassa first learned about mechanical engineering from a cab fare. Now,
as a leader, mentor, and advocate, he’s helping the next generation of Black
innovators find their way. Discover his story, brought to life by illustrator
Phoenix Owens.
Article


A JOURNEY TO RACIAL AWARENESS

For Digital Account Executive Douglas Neres, starting the first Blacks at
Microsoft chapter in Latin America has brought him closer to his cultural
identity and community.
Video


TRACY JONES INNOVATOR’S INVENTORY IS ALL ABOUT STORIES

Every object tells a story of growth and inspiration. Join us as Tracy Jones
reveals the personal inventory that defines his path and principles. What items
have shaped your journey?
Video


ASHLEY INNOVATOR’S INVENTORY AND THE BIG PLANS SHE’S MADE

Our personal treasures hold the stories of who we are. Ashley Witherspoon shares
the tangible symbols of her values and journey. What mementos narrate your
life’s chapters?
Video


JEROME INNOVATOR’S INVENTORY AND THE ITEMS THAT REMIND HIM OF WHO HE IS

Every artifact in our life can be a source of inspiration and a marker for
success. Jerome Collins presents us with the personal items that fuel his
creativity and professional growth. What mementos represent your path to
success?
Video


WHEN INNOVATION AND PASSION COLLIDE

Jerome Collins discusses the influence of his father’s guidance, his passion for
art and music, and his innovative approach to driving positive change and
representation in his professional sphere.
Video


THE LINK BETWEEN CUSTOMER SUCCESS AND THE FREEDOM TO BE YOURSELF

Inspired by her son and her joy-centered approach, Ashley Witherspoon, a
Microsoft customer success account manager, champions the power of a unique
voice to drive change and growth in the corporate world.
Video


HOW A POET ACHIEVED HIS ULTIMATE GOAL

Driven by his mother’s dream and a commitment to innovation, representation, and
the empowerment of the Black and African American community, Tracy Jones shares
his inspiring journey from poet to professional writer.
Article


LESSONS FROM CHILDHOOD ON EMBRACING CHANGE

For Project Manager Amulya Gupta, growing up in an army family shaped her
approach to creating more opportunities for women in tech.
Article


FROM THE ARMY TO THE CLOUD

From army veteran to senior cloud solution architect, Jimmy Avila proves that
curiosity is key to personal development and connecting with customers.
Video


NURTURING OUR INTRINSIC VALUE

Raised with values rooted in her Japanese heritage, Megumi Voight found solace
in community during deployments while in the military. Now as a managing editor
of customer storytelling at Microsoft, she empowers global voices, advocating
for authenticity and reminding others of their inherent worth.
Video


REDEFINING SECURITY IN A DIGITAL LANDSCAPE

After falling victim to a public data breach, Vishal Amin developed a passion
for cybersecurity and set out to defend digital spaces. He traces his journey
from his Marine Corps enlistment to becoming managing director of security
solutions at Microsoft, embodying the ethos to promote a safer digital world.
Video


BEYOND A PROMISE

Upon joining the US Marines at age 17, Petrus Johnson promised his mom he’d get
a college degree, and he delivered. Now a customer success account manager, he
honors his roots by guiding fellow veterans and fostering social justice
discussions beyond the workplace.
Animated Video


UNCOVERING COURAGEOUSLY

Senior Technical Specialist Brent Nix once felt obligated to navigate unsafe
workspaces. However, a pivotal incident at a previous company gave him the
courage to uncover and ultimately find a space and voice at Microsoft where he
no longer felt the need to hide his true self. Illustrated by Lynne Hardy.
Article


MY UNCONVENTIONAL PATH TO TECH

Air Force reservist and Engineering Technical Program Manager Zachary Oxendine
pulls from his rural, Indigenous roots to empower the next generation of leaders
in STEM.
Article


STAY CURIOUS

Cloud Solution Architect Dylan Apera leverages the power of the nontechnical
skills he learned from his small island upbringing to build relationships with
customers.
Article


MORE THAN A GAME

Growing up in Mérida, Yucatán in Mexico, Luis Angel Mex was very connected to
his Mayan heritage. These days, he honors that heritage by creating culturally
inclusive gaming studios and experiences.
Article


COMMON GROUND

After more than 10 years working at Microsoft, Manitoban Deanna LaJambe reflects
on the impact of exercising her “empathy muscle” in life and at work.
Animated Video


WRITTEN IN THE SKY

As a Microsoft Engineer and member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee, Tracy found
a way to fuse tradition and technology using Microsoft language tools to help
preserve and teach Indigenous languages. Experience his story, illustrated by
Gregg Deal.
Animated Video


THE ICEBREAKER

When Paola started her new position during the pandemic, she found it
challenging to connect with coworkers. So, she used existing technology and
suggestions from her peers in the Indigenous community, to create something
completely new.
Animated Video


EMBRACE YOUR IDENTITY, EMBRACE LIFE

Business Program Manager Kimberly Marreros Chuco shares her inspiring journey of
self-acceptance and adaptability, born from challenges she’s faced since moving
from a mining town in the Andes. Through her story, she reminds us that it’s
essential to embrace our unique identity and find beauty in the challenges we
face, always remembering that making mistakes is a valuable part of our growth.
Illustrated by Tai Silva.
Animated Video


DATA-DRIVEN DREAMS

Funmi Omoliki is a data and AI specialist who believes in the power of
storytelling and our collective power to transform society. Discover her story,
illustrated by artist Dai Ruiz.
Animated Video


A COMMITMENT TO SERVICE

Mary McCready, a US Marine Corps veteran and Microsoft content manager, has
dedicated her life to helping others—from fellow vets, to Microsoft customers,
to humanity as a whole. Discover Mary’s story of innovation and ingenuity,
illustrated by artist Edward Dinzole.
Animated Video


ON THE FRONT LINE OF CHANGE

When Jasmin, a security expert in the Australian military, started transitioning
from defense, her first battle was against self-doubt. Now, she’s fighting to
empower veterans like herself to achieve more and win their own battles,
illustrated by Debs Lim.
Article


ALL THE LIVES THAT HAVE SHAPED ME

First-generation Filipino American Director of Product Marketing Mia Reyes has
found a role where her nontraditional career path is not just accepted but
celebrated.
Animated Video


CRACKING THE CODE

When Zuzu began her career as a software engineer, she often battled Imposter
Syndrome. Then, she decided to fight the status quo. Discover her story of
ingenuity and empowerment, illustrated by Cha Pornea.
Article


REMOVING THE MASK OF PERFECTION

For Customer Success Account Manager and Blacks at Microsoft (BAM) Chief of
Staff Iona Wilson, finally showing up as her true authentic self helped her see
her full potential — and created a safe space for other Black women.
Video


“I AM FREE TO BE EXACTLY WHO I AM.”

Inspired by her son and her joy-centered approach, Ashley Witherspoon, a
Microsoft customer success account manager, champions the power of a unique
voice to drive change and growth in the corporate world.
Article


BALANCING CAREER, MOTHERHOOD, AND PERSONAL PURPOSE

HR Business Partner and mom of two, Estefania (Fany) Canosa advocates for women
taking on new challenges both in the workplace and on the homefront.
Article


GAMING FOR CHANGE

Senior Direct Sales Associate and HOLA member Lilia Fratini blends her love of
gaming and technology with her commitment to community through building more
access to STEM learning opportunities for kids.
Article


SHOWING UP AND TAKING ACTION

Microsoft Security Senior Product Manager and entrepreneur Lisa Huang-North
pulls from her multicultural upbringing to foster community for people who
identify as Asian American and Pacific Islander.
Article


EMPOWERMENT AS A PERSONAL VALUE

Sales Manager Danielle Skeen’s growth mindset and passion for empowering her
team tie back to her Jamaican roots.
Video


WAYPOINTS OF WISDOM AND CHRISTINA’S JOURNEY IN STEM AND GAMING

All of our possessions are markers, proudly celebrating the waypoints we’ve
reached in our lives. Christina Parker shares her cherished keepsakes that guide
us through her journey in STEM and gaming. Share the mementos that act as
markers in your life.
Video


ERIN’S SYMBOLS OF SELF AND HER JOURNEY THROUGH PERSONAL KEEPSAKES 

Each item a person owns helps to shape their story. Erin Jagelski shares the
symbols of her journey and cherished memories. Dive into the conversation and
reveal the keepsakes that narrate your story.
Video


MASTER OF MESSINESS

As a mom and a tech leader, Elaine Chang has learned to embrace the chaos and
put her “Octopus mind” to work in service of innovation, at work and at home,
illustrated by Niege Borges.
Video


MELISSA CURRY’S TREASURES OF HERITAGE AND ACHIEVEMENT

Our possessions showcase the things that really matter to us. Melissa Curry
unveils the artifacts that encapsulate her heritage, achievements, and bonds
that shape her. Tell us about the artifacts that weave the fabric of your story.
Animated Video


EMPOWERMENT BY DESIGN

Once one of few women in her field, Melissa Kroskie has become a fierce advocate
for accessible workspaces that enable independence and empowerment for everyone.
Illustrated by Pola Augustynowicz
Video


ERIN’S MISSION TO REVOLUTIONIZE PARENTAL SUPPORT IN THE WORKPLACE

Guided by a gift for listening and a commitment to motherhood, Erin Jagelski
shares how she navigated post-maternity challenges and pioneered support
networks for parents in the workplace by blending her passion and leadership to
foster inclusive environments.
Video


A LEAP THROUGH FINANCIAL HARDSHIP

Influenced by her son and a mentor, Melissa Curry explains how she transformed
her life through Microsoft’s LEAP program, going from financial hardship to
flourishing as a technical program manager. Now, she gives back as an ambassador
and helps to foster tech opportunities in underserved communities.
Video


VIRTUAL REPRESENTATION AND DIVERSITY IN THE GAMING WORLD

Inspired by her early love for fantasy and gaming, Christina Parker champions
diversity and representation in the gaming industry, explaining the accuracy of
portrayals and the importance of players seeing themselves in the virtual worlds
they love.
Article


MAKING SPACE

With a background more in humans than in technology, Seattle-based Community
Manager Naomi Boyd helps steer cultural transformation for Microsoft’s
Advertising team in her everyday interactions.
Article


FINDING BELONGING THROUGH ALLYSHIP

As a parent of adopted children and a member of multiple communities, Senior
Product Marketing Manager Tyler Mays-Childers says he’s able to find deeper
connections through allyship.
Article


COMING OUT TO MYSELF

For Technical Advisor and GLEAM UK Community Lead Adam Dinwoodie, launching the
Pride Network at his previous company became a catalyst for his push to create
safer spaces in the workplace.
Video


FROM DOODLES TO OPENED DOORS 

Caroline Scalley invites us into their world through cherished possessions that
act as chapters of their journey. A vintage toy computer reflects their tech
journey, while a pin evokes memories of childhood creativity with Microsoft
Paint.
Animated Video


SHOWING UP, AUTHENTICALLY

Senior Program Manager Morty Scanlon often felt unsafe bringing his identity to
the forefront. Now, at Microsoft, he’s been given the welcoming and supportive
environment that he’s needed to thrive in the workplace. Discover his story of
authenticity and advocacy, illustrated by Avalon Nuovo.
Animated Video


NURTURING INNER PEACE

When Ethan started at Microsoft, he prioritized money over his wellbeing. Twelve
years later, the senior customer success manager and ERG storytelling host knows
that the only way to truly take care of others is to first take care of
yourself. Discover his story of gratitude and growth, illustrated by Camila
Abdanur.
Animated Video


FINDING EUPHORIA 

Christabel Sheridan found the courage to come out to her coworkers after a
company conference. Now, she’s spreading the word—and her wings—as a transgender
educator and advocate. Illustrated by Karla Monterossa.
Video


UTILIZING YOUR SUPERPOWER

Armed with what he calls “super empathy,” Joao Madureira, principal customer
reliability engineer at Microsoft, harnesses inclusivity as his strength. As a
gay man and a Latino, he activates allyship in the workplace, ensuring all
voices are heard. His actions have not only brought in new talent but also
propelled inclusivity forward.
Video


FREEDOM IN SELF-EXPRESSION

Emerging from a journey of self-discovery and embracing their nonbinary
identity, Caroline Scalley, senior business administrator at Microsoft, shares
their distinctive qualities with pride. Drawing from their Puerto Rican heritage
and love for self-expression, Caroline blends humor with originality and
compassion in their role, redefining norms through unique understanding.
Article


CHANGING THE GAME

Content Program Manager Albert Dankwa didn’t have a computer until high school.
Today, he’s working to create more opportunities in the gaming industry for
people who look and sound like him.
Article


HIDDEN NO LONGER 

Toyia Blount’s journey of self-acceptance has helped her embrace her
complexities, raise her voice, and tear down stereotypes.
Article


A LIFE LESS SILENT 

For Lyn Cameron, her hearing loss journey helped her find her voice. Now she
wants to make sure everyone has a chance to be heard.
Article


I DON’T HAVE THE OPTION TO BE SHY

Gonçalo Mendes has always yearned for independence. His journey with cerebral
palsy led him from relying on others for care to taking care of others.
Article


A PATH WITH MANY LANES

Through years of juggling her studies, part-time jobs, and motherhood, Customer
Success Account Manager Tash Bettridge managed to find her place in tech— and
has made it her mission to help other women do the same.
Article


KEEPER OF STORIES

Product Marketing Manager Samuel Briscoe leverages his unique upbringing and
multicultural heritage to challenge biases and drive change on the
sustainability front.
Article


I AM MY MARAE, MY MARAE IS ME – “KO AU TE MARAE, KO TE MARAE KO AU”

For Senior Channel Sales Manager Dan Te Whenua Walker, connecting with the local
Māori community allowed him to bridge the two worlds of his dual heritage, Māori
and Pākehā.
Article


MY TRUE SELF, MY WAY

Principal Service Engineering Manager Telmo Sampaio learned the strength of
embracing differences early in life. Today, they’re empowering engineers to
bring their diverse backgrounds, cultural values, and ideas into the workplace.
Article


EMBRACING THE UNPLANNED PATH 

Senior Product Manager Elva Fernandez Sanchez has confronted financial
challenges, language barriers, and career shifts. She now uses her voice to
shape the future of Microsoft’s products and bring about meaningful change in
her community.
View More


EXPLORE MORE WAYS TO ENGAGE

Celebrate diversity, culture, and community with new virtual backgrounds.


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