We caught up with Leila McKenzie-Delis, the founder of DIAL Global (Diverse, Inclusive, Aspirational Leaders) and the McKenzie-Delis Foundation and a speaker on diversity, inclusion and aspirations in business.
DIAL is a worldwide movement of people from all cultures and walks of life, who are seeking a deeper understanding of the world and to make a positive difference through business.
My car of choice
I actually don’t own a car and I dare say it’s perhaps safer this way! Seriously though I’m a bit of a tree hugger and like to do my best for the environment wherever possible. I use a lot of public transport and ubers to get me where I need to go.
My favourite holiday destination
I do love the Greek islands and as my husband is Greek we particularly enjoy Mykonos – the combination of sun, sea, and amazing food is a winner for me every time. Time seems so much slower once you arrive on an island – for me it’s the perfect way to relax, unwind and reflect.
My gadget I can’t live without
My iPhone! I’m a millennial, what can I say – I’d be rather lost without it although I do quite like my new Remarkable which is an electronic notepad that feels nearly like real paper and is great for the environment too!
My go to fashion brand
In the last year of lockdown, I wouldn’t have survived without my Sweaty Betty and Lulu Lemon kit. Not only do they create amazing leggings and leisurewear but I absolutely love what they are doing to feature diverse people in their advertising.
My airline of choice
Any one I can travel on – I’m so desperate to jump on a plane and go anywhere these days! But I have to say one of my entrepreneur heroes is Sir Richard Branson – so Virgin Atlantic is a firm favourite. As Richard would say ‘screw it lets do it!’.
My favourite watch brand
Love my fit bit and Apple Watch! It’s far more than a watch brand and I can honestly say it’s changed my life. I particularly like the feature that buzzes me to move frequently and tracks sleep patterns. Long days sitting at the laptop mean the reminder to keep moving is ever more critical!
My favourite restaurant
I can’t say I have a favourite restaurant, probably because I love home cooking. My favourite meal is a good, old Sunday roast which definitely tastes better when the whole family is around the table.
My guilty pleasure
Throughly enjoy sharing a cheeky glass of prosecco with my husband at the end of a long day. It’s our ritual for unwinding and reconnecting after a busy day.
My favourite way to give back
My favourite way to give back is by driving greater diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in the world. Everything I do is about creating a world where we all get an equal chance to succeed. In addition to starting DIAL Global to create more diverse workplaces, I’ve recently established and funded The McKenzie-Delis Charitable Foundation to support research and insight into how best to create real and measurable change in workplace diversity.
