There are two credentials available:
- Workplace Inclusion Practitioner – WI(Pr) – for those who support and implement DEI programmes and are building their experience in this space.
- Workplace Inclusion Professional – WI(Pf) – for leaders who influence executive decisions, develop workplace inclusion strategies, and lead programme implementation.
Pathways are available for practitioners to progress to professional level as their career and experience grow.
Why get accredited?
Accreditation gives you more than a credential. It gives you a community, ongoing development, and the confidence to lead this work with authority.
- Credibility – Demonstrate to your organisation, stakeholders and sector that your expertise in workplace inclusion is recognised and verified.
- Professional growth – Accreditation includes ongoing professional development, keeping your knowledge current and your practice sharp.
- Community – Join a growing network of accredited DEI practitioners and professionals across Aotearoa – a community for peer support, shared learning and collective voice.
- Accountability – The Workplace Inclusion Charter of Conduct holds accredited professionals to a clear set of values and standards – and provides recourse if you are accused unfairly of misconduct.
- Capability – Give your organisation the assurance that its inclusion work is led by a recognised professional with access to best practice.
Who should apply?
Workplace Inclusion professionals come from all walks of life and bring a wide range of lived experience to their work. This accreditation will be a valuable credential for anyone working in this space, including:
- Workplace Inclusion leaders and specialists
- Committee and employee-led network members
- People and Culture and HR professionals
- Passionate allies looking to strengthen and formalise their career in workplace inclusion
How does the process work?
Our accreditation programme is a portfolio-based assessment that recognises your knowledge, experience and professional practice in DEI.
The assessment journey has three key steps:
1. Portfolio submission
You’ll submit a portfolio of evidence that showcases your skills, experience, and impact in workplace inclusion. This is your opportunity to tell your story – the mahi you’ve done, the change you’ve driven and the communities you’ve worked alongside.
2. Practical assessment hui
Candidates with an accepted portfolio will be invited to a practical assessment — a case-study-based workshop exploring how you navigate real-world inclusion scenarios. The assessment is strengths-based and designed to showcase the best of your practice.
3. Interview
A conversational peer interview to reflect on your journey, discuss your development goals and round out the assessment. This is as much about looking forward as it is about looking back.
Throughout the programme, you’ll receive feedback at every stage – whether that’s confirmation of your progression, or thoughtful guidance on areas for development. Our approach is strengths-based and mana enhancing. We’re here to support you, not catch you out.
Where gaps are identified, we’ll recommend learning pathways to help you get there. Every candidate’s journey is different, and we meet you where you are.
How do you apply?
Applications are open all year round.
Getting started is simple:
1. Complete the online application form with your details, CV, and a cover letter outlining your experience in DEI.
2. We’ll review your application and be in touch with more details about the programme and next steps.
3. Once accepted, you’ll receive everything you need – including your Candidate Guide, portfolio checklist, and payment information – to begin your accreditation journey.
