Friday Meetup #SpeakerSeries
About the Session:
The Power of Both/And: Cultivating Connection and Belonging by Annemarie Shrouder
Belonging starts with connection—and connection begins with perspective. In this interactive session, Annemarie Shrouder, Founder & Principal of Annemarie Shrouder International, will guide participants through an introspective journey exploring the transformative concept of “both/and.”
Drawing on over two decades of experience in DEI and her work as a best-selling author, Annemarie will help the BTI community examine how embracing complexity and nuance deepens our sense of belonging and strengthens relationships. Together, participants will engage in breakout discussions, create a collaborative word cloud, and explore the role of connection in shaping inclusive spaces.
This session offers not just theory, but practical reflection and dialogue to inspire leaders, professionals, and changemakers to show up more intentionally—for themselves and for others.
About our Guest Speaker:
Annemarie Shrouder, Founder & Principal, Annemarie Shrouder International
A global DEI expert, author, facilitator, and international speaker, Annemarie is passionate about cultivating connection and belonging in workplaces and communities. She is the author of Being Brown in a Black and White World: Conversations for Leaders on Race, Racism and Belonging and is currently writing her second book on the power of the “both/and” perspective. Through leadership programs, retreats, and consulting, she empowers individuals and organizations to shift how they relate, lead, and care for each other.
BTI Friday Meetups are a weekly source of information and inspiration for the Black Talent Initiative community. This is a space to share, learn, and engage with talented leaders driving meaningful change.
What BTI Friday Meetups Offer:
• Engaging Updates – Share accomplishments and celebrate progress across the BTI network.
• Inspiring Speakers – Hear from trailblazers and changemakers shaping a brighter future.
• Thoughtful Discussions – Collaborate and explore solutions for systemic change across industries.
• Meaningful Connections – Build lasting relationships with like-minded professionals and leaders.
Join us and be part of the conversation!