Why Oka?
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) can be incredibly complex. Improving DEI metrics is akin to unravelling a web of interconnected issues spread across departments, companies, industries, and most importantly, people. Which is why DEI programmes, including those targeted at gender equality often fail to deliver. For example, while traditional anti-bias training continues to be widely adopted, research consistently highlights its shortcomings. Yet, alternatives such as mentoring and allyship stand out as effective approaches.
Research published in the American Sociological Review revealed that mentoring increased minority representation among managers by nine to 24 percent. Additionally, when men actively engage as allies, a staggering 96% of organizations see progress, in contrast to only 30% where men are not involved.
However, even these strategies have their limitations. For example, if mentoring programs neglect to consider the essential DEI goals, the participants involved, and the specific organizational needs, they can inadvertently favour individuals who are already thriving, rather than the marginalized groups they are intended to support.
At Oka, we've taken great care to address these considerations and more in our approach to consulting and to our platform design.
What Sets Oka Apart?
Oka offers a solution crafted by organizational psychologists with a deep understanding of human dynamics and organizational processes. This enables Oka to deliver tailored interventions precisely when and how they're needed.
What Does Using Oka Look Like?
At Oka, we partner with client organizations to pinpoint their DEI objectives, focusing specifically on gender equity goals. Whether you're facing resource constraints or eager to kick-start the process immediately, Oka can assist. Together, we determine the necessary customizations to align the platform with your organizational objectives and enhance existing initiatives.
The Key Benefits of Choosing Oka for Gender Equality
Matching - The Perfect Mentor-Mentee Pair
Successful mentoring heavily relies on pairing the right mentor with the right mentee. One of Oka’s key strengths lies in its matching capabilities. Oka's algorithm goes beyond conventional factors, integrating personality traits, values, and other vital elements gleaned from comprehensive psychological research. This meticulous approach guarantees that mentorship connections aren't merely advantageous but genuinely life-changing.
Inclusive Engagement - Allies and Community Support
Allies play a crucial role in advancing DEI initiatives. Research indicates that when men actively participate as allies, it leverages positive peer pressure to nurture a workplace culture grounded in accountability, inclusivity, and gender equality norms. This collaborative effort not only promotes fairness but also propels organizations closer to achieving gender equity.
Community engagement is also integral to Oka's approach. Safe spaces within our platform enable users to freely ask questions, embrace mistakes, and learn from one another. This encourages a culture of continual learning and development, crucial for sustainable transformation.
A Curated Journey - Just for You
Oka offers a tailored journey for mentors, allies, and mentees, each benefiting uniquely from the platform's specialized support.
Mentees - gain clarity on their goals through a proven psychological process, empowering them to address their development needs and leverage their strengths. They also learn invaluable skills to navigate networks, seize opportunities, and thrive in various situations.
Allies - Oka guides and advises allies on supporting individuals in diverse circumstances personalised to those needs.
Mentors - Oka equips mentors with the proven strategies, tools, and approaches used with senior leaders. This empowers mentors to unlock potential, enhance performance, bolster emotional resilience, and foster more impactful relationships—all while meeting them where they are and guiding them toward their desired outcomes.
Support Anytime, Anywhere for Lasting Behaviour Change
Our always-available technology is crucial for fostering long-term behavior change among users.
Despite anyone’s best efforts, sticking to commitments can be tough when they clash with our daily routines. For example, consider the striking fact that 94% of people fail to achieve their New Year's resolutions. This isn't due to lack of desire or belief in their importance, but rather the complexity of human behavior.
With AI mentors accessible 24/7 for each mentee and personalized prompts for mentors, mentees, and allies, Oka creates a supportive environment grounded in natural psychological mechanisms. By leveraging technology, positive social support, and peer pressure, in the correct sequence Oka facilitates sustainable behavior change—a feat that traditional interventions often struggle to accomplish.
Realizing Everyone’s Potential
Oka revolutionizes access to personal and professional growth opportunities. Traditionally, expertise in organizational psychology and leadership development is reserved for senior leaders. Oka breaks down these barriers by democratizing access to these tools and methodologies. But Oka goes beyond mere provision; it actively guides users in effectively supporting each other, fostering a culture of mutual assistance where everyone can unlock their full potential.
Measuring Impact and Improving Outcomes
Oka offers invaluable insights to organizations through data analysis and expert guidance. We help organizations measure the impact of their DEI initiatives, identify barriers to inclusion, and refine their approach for maximum effectiveness.
In essence, Oka isn't just a platform—it's a comprehensive solution rooted in research, expertise, and an in-depth understanding of human behavior. By directly addressing the complexities of DEI, Oka works with organizations to enact lasting, meaningful change.
