Elaine Koyce
Senior Product Owner, Carelon Global Solutions Ireland
Natalia Riscovaia
Product Owner, Carelon Global Solutions Ireland
Elaine Koyce and Natalia Riscovaia of Carelon Global Solutions Ireland discuss the diversity and inclusion initiatives and programmes that help create an empowering and innovative workplace culture.
What is the day-to-day like in your role?
Elaine Koyce (EK): In product management, I oversee the strategic roadmap, technical design and delivery of our product while managing scrum teams. Additionally, I lead the Women in Tech initiative at Carelon Global Solutions Ireland, empowering women through offering a platform for connections, sharing experiences, mentoring and networking opportunities.
Natalia Riscovaia (NR): As part of the digital solutions team, I prioritise features, collaborating with stakeholders and guiding the development team to maximise product value and align with business goals. Additionally, I lead the diversity, equity and inclusion employee resource group, fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity in our workplace.
How do you think empowering women promotes inclusion?
NR: Empowering women in the workplace promotes diversity of views and perspectives, attracting top talent regardless of gender or background. This approach creates a culture that values diverse opinions and ensures all voices are heard. Women’s advancement often leads to improved work-life balance policies, enhancing the company’s reputation and fostering an inclusive culture that benefits the entire organisation.
DE&I initiatives are invaluable, fostering
an environment where all feel valued and
empowered to share unique perspectives.
What DE&I initiatives does your company offer? How do they benefit employees?
NR: As part of the diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) initiatives we offer, we’ve implemented various training programmes. These include ambassadors’ workshops, lunch-and-learn and Awareness Month sessions. These initiatives boost inclusivity, cross-cultural understanding and employee engagement, ultimately creating a more harmonious work environment.
EK: There’s the Women in Tech initiative and mentorship programmes, which are crucial for fostering gender diversity, professional growth and a sense of community. Carelon’s mentorship programmes connect women with experienced professionals, alongside networking events and leadership development which includes a programme through American Chamber of Commerce.
We celebrate achievements through our Women in STEM and Diversity in Tech awards. We also actively support STEM education via partnerships with Thomond Community College and IWISH. These initiatives aim to create an inclusive, equitable workplace and inspire the next generation of women in tech.
How do you think empowering women promotes workplace wellbeing?
EK: Empowering women fosters an environment where everyone can bring their true selves to work, leading to open dialogue, innovation and collaboration. When women feel supported and valued, it creates a sense of belonging that drives creativity and energy, ultimately benefiting the entire organisation. We’re fortunate to have an incredible group of women here, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and support, where everyone is rooting for each other’s success.
As an employee, do you find these initiatives helpful? What further developments do you hope to see?
NR: DE&I initiatives are invaluable, fostering an environment where all feel valued and empowered to share unique perspectives. They have led to innovative solutions and a culture embracing individual differences. We continuously explore ways to enhance our DE&I strategies and hope to see more people joining our company and DE&I committee, bringing their unique experiences.
