10th May 2024

Celebrating Multicultural Inclusion Month

A group of people in traditional clothing to their culture in the office

To celebrate Multicultural Inclusion Month, we're hearing from some of our members from the Multicultural Inclusion Network (MIN).

MIN is open to everyone at Vodafone UK, regardless of their race, ethnicity or nationality. By celebrating different cultures, the group works to create greater understanding and an even deeper sense of belonging among everyone here.

Jade Hutcheson
Business Manager

My Career

I began my career in the care industry, focusing on supporting children and young people on the autism spectrum. I then transitioned into recruitment within the telecommunications (telco) sector. Swiftly advancing, I was promoted to a Personal Assistant role, where I gained extensive experience. This paved the way for my next progressive move into the position of Business Manager.

Why I'm part of MIN

Being part of the Multicultural Inclusion Network as a MIN Ambassador, provides an avenue to cultivate diversity, equity, and inclusion within our community. There's a continual learning journey in every aspect of life, and I find MIN to be a profoundly respectful network that encourages us to embrace diverse cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. I strongly advocate for the creation of collaborative and inclusive environments where all individuals feel appreciated and empowered to contribute.

What Multicultural Inclusion Month means to me

It is a wonderful opportunity for us to celebrate the richness of cultural diversity throughout an entire month. It's a chance to raise awareness about the various ethnic backgrounds within our community and to honor those who dedicate themselves to educating others about these diverse cultures.

About me

I like to immerse myself in new knowledge, although not all of it sticks. Yet, when something captivates my interest, I'm determined to grasp it. I find fulfilment in seeking adventure and spending time outdoors, engaging in activities like running, cycling, and climbing. I'm very grateful in life, but, if you were to ask how i am, my default response would likely be "tired." Why, you ask? Well, I have an amazingly funny two-year-old nocturnal daughter. My biggest challenge yet!

An interesting fact about me...

I recently run the Lake Garda Half Marathon in 27 degree heat for Sarcoma UK which is a rare cancer charity.

Vodafone is a Great Place to Work

Vodafone demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement, adeptly navigating the challenges that arise. They prioritise maintaining a healthy work-life balance by offering ample opportunities. From my perspective, Vodafone is dedicated to making a meaningful impact by embracing diversity across various platforms, including MIN, Vodability, Armed Forces, Parents & Carers, and other groups requiring flexibility in their lives.

Heba smiling
Heba Mukhles
Senior Manager GTM, Planning & Business Architecture

My Career

I've been at Vodafone for 18 years - I started globally across VOIS leading mass teams within Care, Tech and back office in Cairo, landing in the UK to complete KONA and initiate product retirement, a massive network and product transformations, IoT portfolio management. I'm currently working within Capex Planning, Business Architecture and Go To Market for Vodafone Business UK. In short, my current role aims to turn our Business investments into a celebratory success for growth, customers and Vodafone-ers!

Why I'm part of MIN

I was born and brought up in Kuwait attending a multicultural British School, I only went back to Egypt my parents home country at the age of 16, working with 5 continents and amazing global customers and partners, only to land in the amazing multicultural UK midst COVID-19 when exposures and venues to fit in were very difficult. Belonging and fitting in are not a natural granted matter unless you live in a world that doesn't move and miss out on amazing opportunities life can give you. It is a painful, lonely and bruising planet that exists inside you unless you find the welcome and culture that gives you the psychological safety to be you and celebrate you. Fun fact - I have seen first hand the art of making miracle outcomes out of a passionate multicultural team purely leveraging the genius product of our differences.

What Multicultural Inclusion Month means to me

As Race and Culture Lead for MIN, I believe this month is an opportunity to cheer everyone on, and to remind us none of us are alone, in fact it's a full house all the time! 

About me

I am a mum of 2, Leilah and Zain. I love creating a passionate outcome we can all stand behind, enjoy a challenge and journey to get there and celebrate hard!

An interesting fact about me...

I can speak most Arabic dialects and involuntarily switch between them based on who's talking!

Vodafone is a Great Place to Work

Vodafone is a great place because it strives to do better for its people and brand everyday, the effort is genuine, makes us better and counts! Flexibility, empowerment and trust are everywhere should you choose to take them and perform at your best with this amazing workplace in your toolkit!

Janet Kuti
Legal Contract Negotiator

My Career

Starting my career in Investment Banking, I transitioned to Vodafone's Business Legal Team, where I have spent the past few years negotiating a wide variety of complex Business-to-Business contracts.

Why I'm part of MIN

I wanted to be a part of the Multicultural Inclusion Network because I am passionate about fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. My own experiences have shown me the importance of understanding and celebrating different cultures, and I am eager to contribute to initiatives that promote equity and inclusivity.

What Multicultural Inclusion Month means to me

As Race and Culture Lead for MIN, Multicultural Inclusion Month is a meaningful celebration for me as it highlights the importance of embracing and valuing the diverse cultures that enrich our community.

About me

I have a passion for history and fascinating facts, which often fuels my curiosity and love for learning. In my spare time, I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and singing with my choir, blending creativity and community. I'm also an avid reader of non-fiction books and a dedicated podcast listener my favourite being the Mindset Mentor and Diary of a CEO!

An interesting fact about me...

I have run two Marathons and looking to compete in my third!

Vodafone is a Great Place to Work

I believe Vodafone is a great place to work because of its commitment to innovation, diversity, and employee development. The company fosters an inclusive culture that values different perspectives and encourages collaboration across all levels.

Learn more about Diversity and Inclusion at Vodafone