Format

This course will be delivered in person in PWC North Wall Quay on Wednesday 9 April at 6pm.

Course overview

Join us for an empowering panel discussion titled "Breaking Down Barriers" hosted by PwC Ireland's Shine and Ability Pillar Groups, in collaboration with CAI's Balance Network.

This event aims to highlight the diverse and intersectional experiences of individuals within the LGBTQIA+ and Ability communities in the workplace.

Featuring a keynote speech by Ian McKinley, former rugby player, the panel will delve into personal stories and challenges, offering actionable insights to foster inclusivity and support. Discover strategies to break down barriers and create a more inclusive environment for all.

The event will be recorded and followed by a networking opportunity. CAI invite members as well as PwC alumni providing an excellent opportunity to reach out to your network!

Date: 9th April 2025

Time: 6pm-8pm

Location: PwC, Spencer Dock

Agenda:

• 5.30: Registration
• 6-6:20: Keynote Speaker
• 6:20-7: Panel (Keynote as MC)
• 7-8: Networking

Who should attend

This event is open to all members and students of Chartered Accountants Ireland to attend. It is also open to others interested in attending. Booking in advance however is required.

Key Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand Diverse Experiences: Gain insight into the unique challenges and experiences faced by our panellists.
• Recognize the Importance of Allyship: Learn how allyship can play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive workplace and society, highlighting effective practices to support colleagues and peers.
• Identify Actionable Strategies: Acquire practical tips and strategies to promote inclusivity and accessibility in professional settings, drawing from real-life examples and expert advice.
• Foster an Inclusive Environment: Explore ways to create a culture of acceptance and support, ensuring that all individuals feel valued and empowered to be their authentic selves.
• Learn from Personal Stories: Engage with the personal narratives of the panellists to better understand the intersectionality of identities and how these experiences shape their professional and personal lives.

Speaker Bio's

Ian McKinley - Ian McKinley's rugby career exemplifies resilience and determination. Born in Dublin, he played Gaelic football at Kilmacud Crokes and rugby at St. Columba's College, joined the Leinster Rugby Academy, and made six appearances for Leinster's first team. His journey faced a major setback in 2010 when a teammate's boot perforated his left eye, leaving him permanently blind in that eye. Supported by his family and aided by Raleri goggles, McKinley made an unprecedented comeback, eventually playing internationally for Italy as the first visually impaired, goggle-wearing rugby player. His autobiography "Second Sight" and work with Vision Sports Ireland inspire others, proving that physical limitations don't define potential. Ian's story has also featured on the Netflix documentary 'Look Beyond'. Ian is now an established pundit for Virgin Media and their coverage of the Six Nations. Ian was also part of the broadcaster's first ever audio descriptive commentary team for Ireland vs England at this year's Six Nations opener. Ian is a huge believer that rugby is a sport for all!

Orla O'Neill - Orla is the Inclusion & Diversity Lead at PwC Ireland. She leads efforts to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and included and like they belong. With a background in Psychology and Neuroscience, Orla uses her experience to help build supportive and open environments. Her work has been key to advancing PwC Ireland's Inclusion First Agenda. As someone who supports and advocates for allyship and belonging, Orla will share insights on the panel about the policies and initiatives implemented to support inclusion within the firm, highlighting practical resources available to elevate allyship and promote an inclusive culture.

Mark Scully - Mark is the founder of Braver Coaching & Consulting, an executive coaching and neurodiversity consultancy based in Dublin. Mark originally qualified as a Barrister before becoming a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Tax Advisor, spending 12 years in professional services, during which time he realised his passion for coaching. Following his own autism diagnosis in 2021, Mark immersed himself in the discourse and research on neurodiversity. Through Braver's coaching and neurodiversity services, Mark wants to help Irish organisations become more inclusive for the benefit of all their employees.

Jaimie Dower - Jaimie is a Chartered Accountant and Executive Director at EY, where she leads the Audit Quality Programme. A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, she co-chairs the EY Unity network, which supports LGBTQ+ employees and helps to foster an inclusive workplace culture. Additionally, Jaimie serves as the Chair of Waterford Spraoi, an international street arts festival, where she works to promote creativity and community engagement.

Contact us

If you have any questions regarding this or any other CPD course or requirements, please feel free to contact the team here or call us at (+353) 01 523 3930

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