Inclusion Week: a celebration of belonging, learning, and growth

At Bruks Siwertell, we believe that inclusion is not just a value, it is practice. Between 5th and 9th May, we held a dedicated Inclusion Week, providing a Group-wide opportunity to learn and reflect upon what it truly means to build a workplace where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and empowered. 

This year, it focused on how inclusion and teamwork go hand-in-hand, and through engaging talks, open discussions, and meaningful storytelling, the week was a great reminder that inclusion, which celebrates diversity and equity, is both a mindset and a daily commitment.

From the top down

The week started with a powerful conversation between Hampus Ericsson, CEO and owner of JCE, Bruks Siwertell Group’s parent company, and Sofia Sahlberg, COO, JCE. Their message was clear: inclusion starts with leadership. Ericsson emphasized that workplaces must be designed to bring out the best in everyone.

Together, they underlined the importance of setting the right tone from the top and embedding inclusion into company culture, not as a slogan, but as a lived experience.

“When people feel appreciated and know their contributions matter, motivation flourishes, and so does performance,” says Clas Gunneberg, CEO, Bruks Siwertell. “Inclusion is a cornerstone of our business strategy; it is how we attract talent, retain great people, and create value for our customers and communities.”

Exploring bias and behavior

Midweek, Urban Björn, founder of Business as Equals, was welcomed for a thought-provoking session on inclusivity in business. With a background in both finance and HR, Björn brought a unique perspective to the conversation, raising awareness about unconscious bias, and inviting participants to reflect upon presumptions and preconceptions.

His interactive game and follow-up discussions helped participants think critically about their assumptions, and how small changes in awareness can lead to big shifts in behavior. His key message? Inclusion is not about being perfect, it is about being aware, intentional, and open to learning.

A global opportunity

Across Bruks Siwertell’s global locations, ongoing and other inclusion initiatives take many forms. For example, in Hirtscheid, Germany, personnel have recently participated in workshops led by diversity coach Anna Engers, where concepts like ‘pigeonholing’ and unconscious bias have been explored through real-life examples and practical dialogue. These sessions sparked important conversations about how individuals can contribute to a more inclusive work environment.

Meanwhile in Arbrå, Sweden, the business unit here has achieved gender equality in its leadership team and completed a significant site modernization project. From improved facilities for personnel with disabilities to shared spaces that bring colleagues together across departments, Arbrå is putting inclusion into action, showing that environment and culture go hand in hand.

Why DEI matters

“Throughout the week, we revisited the core principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), not just as buzzwords, but as essential frameworks for how we work,” says Anna Halling, CSO, Bruks Siwertell. “It is also an integral part of our sustainability journey. Every aspect of this work is categorized to meet either an environmental, social or governance target; with diversity and inclusion playing a central role in our social goals.”

“Diversity brings new perspectives, equity ensures fairness, and inclusion creates belonging,” continues Emma Sundin, CHRO, Bruks Siwertell. “At Bruks Siwertell, we know that the best ideas come from teams where everyone has a voice, and everyone is heard. It is in our daily choices and actions that we build the inclusive culture we want to see.”

Time to reflect

“Inclusion Week may be over, but its impact lives on. Through the conversations we have had and the stories we heard, we were reminded that inclusion is not a one-time initiative, it is a continuous effort that shapes our culture and drives our success,” emphasizes Gunneberg.

“Thank you to everyone who took part. Your engagement, openness, and contributions helped make it a meaningful and impactful experience for all. I hope we can carry this energy forward as we continue building a workplace where diverse perspectives are valued, equity is championed, and inclusion is a shared responsibility,” he concludes.

You can read more about our sustainability journey here.