Winner: Roberto Vila, Mastercard
Roberto Vila launched the PRIDE GeoNorth inclusivity program for MasterCard in Mexico and Central America. Since its launch, the 11 active members and allies have been united in achieving a principal objective: Promoting an environment of diversity and inclusion and providing a safe a respectful working atmosphere. Under Vila, PRIDE generated a strong drive for equality from within and brought it to the outside world though a commitment to make positive change in the communities it operates within. Internally, Vila generated interest in the initiative among all employees, regardless of their background. This sense of partnership has been strongly demonstrated in the 50 individuals that represented MasterCard in Mexico’s 2016 Pride Parade.
Mastercard employees that are part of the LGBT community now feel more free to express their true selves in their working life. PRIDE has helped generate a positive impact on employees' work lives, improving productivity. In large part thanks to Vila, MasterCard is now recognized as an inclusive company and is actively becoming a reference point in corporate culture for successful diversity initiatives. Vila also participates in thought leadership forums like LGBT Confx Mexico.