IABM, the international trade association for broadcast and media technology suppliers, is to form a group to promote diversity and inclusion in the industry.

The industry-wide group, Diversity Action, will provide a forum for IABM members to share knowledge, experiences and best practices to drive change and equal opportunity for all.

The decision to form Diversity Action follows the Big Debate session that closed the recent IABM BaM Live! event, where leaders from a number of national and international diversity organisations debated ‘Getting to grips with diversity in Broadcast, Media & Entertainment’.

During the session, it became clear that the sharing of ideas and best practice could accelerate diversity and inclusion initiatives across the industry.

IABM CEO Peter White said: “Almost as soon as the Big Debate started, I could sense a shared ‘lightbulb’ moment where it became obvious to all the participants that collaboration between their organisations would be immensely beneficial in accelerating diversity and inclusion globally.

“With its international reach and membership, and commitment to connecting and informing the entire global industry, IABM is ideally placed to be the fulcrum of that collaboration – the champion of diversity.”

IABM’s Lucinda Meek, CFO and chair of diversity action, and Lisa Collins, Head of Membership Engagement, will be instrumental in setting up and running Diversity Action.

“Collaboration is key, and IABM is already working with many organisations on a global basis,” Ms Collins said.

“So it is well placed to raise awareness of the message on diversity, to share experiences and best practices, and drive the change that will make our industry a better place.

“Working together through Diversity Action we can enhance the health, vibrancy and equality of our industry and raise standards on a global basis.”