At BioTalent, fostering inclusivity and advocating for diversity in the STEM field are more than just goals—they're a commitment. In this interview, we sit down Kinali Patel, who heads up legal and compliance globally, and also serves as an ambassador for the Race in STEM community.
Through her unique legal and compliance lens, Kinali offer insights on the value of collaboration and open dialogue in breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations. Race in STEM founder Steve Fuller sat down with Kinali to hear her views.
Can you tell us about you and your role at BioTalent?
I work within the core functions team, heading up legal and compliance globally for BioTalent. I advise and assist the team on legal and compliance challenges, whilst implementing effective strategies and processes for the wider business to facilitate BioTalent’s growth.
What stood out for you to want to become a Race in STEM ambassador?
Being a Race in STEM ambassador gives me the platform to represent who I am and listen to others from different backgrounds who face challenges in the STEM space. Seeing first-hand the barriers that people from underrepresented backgrounds face, I felt a strong responsibility to contribute to meaningful change.
Being an ambassador for Race in STEM has given me the chance to advocate for diversity in the STEM field in a safe and open space to really understand the key issues that are present in society with the aim to positively raise awareness.
If you had 30 seconds to explain what Race in STEM is, what would you say?
Race in STEM to me is a collective group of individuals championing change in society by addressing key issues and subjects in the STEM space. It’s about giving individuals the chance to collaborate, discuss and challenge topics such as discrimination, bias, and lack of representation in the STEM space whilst recognising and celebrating successful ethnic minority background professionals who play an integral part in some of the largest global organisations.
In STEM, is there an area you are most passionate in and why?
Coming from a legal and compliance background I didn’t think I would be able to connect to the STEM space in the way the other ambassadors would. However, I quickly realised that wasn’t the case and in fact the platform I have allows me to connect with STEM professionals in the HR, legal and compliance field, giving me the opportunity to learn about challenges and experiences from individuals who have similar specialities.
For me, having that fresh perspective through a legal and compliance lens has made me all the more excited to connect with new people.
Why should people join the Race in STEM community?
It's an excellent opportunity to engage with peers, clients, candidates, and others you might not usually have open and honest discussions with about the challenges they face or continue to confront. It provides a moment to step back from your daily routine and consider how you can make a difference by sharing their stories and positively impacting their lives. It has given me a fresh perspective and has truly helped me educate myself and others on topics that are not spoken about enough.
Reach out to the team today to see how you can get involved - and make sure you subscribe to the monthly newsletter to stay up-to-date with everything that's happening in the Race in STEM world.