IDEA Impact Stories: Aruna Revolution Health
Aruna Revolution Health is leading the charge in bioscience diversity and inclusion
In the realm of bioscience — where innovation meets social responsibility — Aruna Revolution Health stands tall as a beacon of inclusivity, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA). Recently honoured as an I.D.E.A.L. Bioscience Employer™ by BioTalent Canada, Aruna Revolution Health is not just rewriting the narrative of menstrual care with its compostable, affordable, and inclusive menstrual pads but is also redefining workplace dynamics with its unwavering commitment to diversity.
It starts at the top
Rashmi Prakash, CEO and co-founder of Aruna Revolution Health, is a biomedical engineer by trade driven by a passion for inclusivity. Alongside her is co-founder and COO Gurleen Bajwa, a registered nurse dedicated to fostering a workplace that mirrors the diversity of the communities they serve.
Their journey began with a vision to integrate inclusivity, diversity, equity, and accessibility into the very fabric of their operations.
“This acknowledgment is a testament to our commitment to creating a workspace that not only innovates but also cares deeply about representing and uplifting diverse voices,” says Rashmi. “It reaffirms our commitment to building an inclusive environment that drives us forward.”
Foundational commitment
For Aruna Revolution Health, the journey towards inclusivity was not an afterthought but a foundational principle. They recognized the unique challenges within the bioscience sector and sought to become a place of work that embodied diversity in both their products and the team.
Aruna Revolution Health’s dedication to fostering inclusivity is evident through various initiatives, notably its internship program. They proudly embrace interns from diverse backgrounds, enriching their organizational culture with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.
Leadership in action
The best organizations lead from the top down. When the people at the top practice what they preach, it makes it easy for employees to follow suit. Co-founder Gurleen took proactive steps, including completing a human resources course focused on bias and diversity. This exemplifies the leadership’s commitment to nurturing a culture of inclusivity.
“This recognition (being named an I.D.E.A.L. Bioscience Employer) is important because it helps us validate our work and set industry standards for others to follow,” explains Gurleen.
Moreover, the organization cares deeply about its employees’ sense of value to the team. Aruna Revolution Health actively fosters a sense of belonging among its employees. By creating spaces for sharing experiences and learning from one another, they ensure every team member feels valued and understood.
However, implementing IDEA principles came with its own set of challenges, specifically in overcoming unconscious bias. Aruna Revolution Health addressed these challenges effectively through training sessions and implementing a feedback mechanism for continuous improvement.
A vision for the future
Looking ahead, Aruna Revolution Health plans to expand outreach programs for underrepresented communities in STEM, increase engagement with global talent, and further enhance their hiring processes. Continuous education on diversity and inclusion for the leadership team remains a priority.
Aruna Revolution Health’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of inclusivity, diversity, equity, and accessibility in the biosciences sector. Their commitment not only sets industry standards but also inspires a broader commitment to these values, shaping a future where diversity is celebrated, and inclusion is the norm.
As they continue to innovate in menstrual care, Aruna Revolution Health simultaneously paves the way for a more inclusive and diverse workplace, proving that true revolution begins with inclusion.
To learn more about how your organization can apply to join the ranks of the Aruna Health Revolutions visit biotalent.ca/idealemployer.