Diversity, equity, and inclusion at Twilio
At Twilio, we strive to foster a culture rooted in diversity, equity, and inclusion, or DEI for short. To do this effectively, we are leveraging antiracism as a framework to activate leadership, teams, and individuals behind this critical work.
Our commitment
Antiracism is “the practice of actively opposing racism and promoting racial equity.”
In 2020, Twilio committed to becoming an antiracist organization, leveraging our product, people, and resources to create a more just and equitable world. While “antiracist” may seem like a US‑centric term, being antiracist is an action and a behavior that translates globally, because unfortunately, racism is universal. It is about how we intentionally and consistently show up to challenge injustices in our communities, systems, and policies while holding ourselves accountable. This looks different across departments and countries, but it’s about being conscious, consistent, frequent, intentional, and proactive about change.
Our approach
It’s easy to focus our work solely on representation and hiring efforts. Instead, we need to take a more holistic approach by prioritizing equity and inclusion alongside our intention to build diverse teams.
Our approach includes an application of what we call the 4Cs. We want to be committed, curious, uncomfortable, and courageous in all aspects of DEI. We’ve modeled our approach to reflect these behaviors.
Inside our workplace
Through programs that educate and activate employees, we intend to build diverse teams, equitable experiences, and inclusive environments.
Where Twilio meets the world
With Twilio.org, we offer grants and provide access to our products and teams to organizations that are looking to solve some of the world’s biggest inequities and challenges.
Through our Acceptable Use Policy, we have developed parameters to ensure our products are not being misused in a way that conflicts with our values.
Building diverse teams
We thrive when we welcome a diversity of identities, experiences, and perspectives to the team. We know that building diverse teams requires us to dismantle barriers and address the opportunity gap, and we are driving programs to do just that.
The Inclusion Rule
Twilio has instituted an internal recruitment initiative that supports our leadership in building diverse teams by ensuring a diverse slate of candidates reach the onsite stage of the interview process.
Partnerships
We partner with a variety of diverse, global organizations that offer development, engagement, and recruiting opportunities for both current and future Twilions.
Creating equitable experiences
Building more diverse teams is only part of the equation. It is equally important that we promote equity within our workplace as well.
Hatch: Engineering apprenticeship program
Hatch invites candidates from underrepresented and non‑traditional backgrounds to launch tech careers through mentorship, apprenticeship, and skill development.
RiseUp
RiseUp is a 12‑month targeted development program for aspiring leaders to increase retention and support the growth of Black and Latinx Twilions into leadership roles across the business.
Cultivating inclusive environments
Every team member plays a role in fostering an environment that is psychologically safe and inclusive. This is a significant responsibility for our managers and leaders, who hold influence and power. Therefore, we are driving educational and engagement opportunities to activate inclusive leadership behaviors throughout the organization.
Be Inclusive
This training curriculum is designed to build a common language around inclusion to support Twilions in mitigating their own biases and teach behaviors that drive diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Twilio After Hours
Twilio After Hours are events that create inclusive environments designed for groups who are commonly underrepresented in the tech community. It’s a space for authentic storytelling, engaging conversations, and personal and professional networking.
Our community
We are a better company because of the diverse communities within Twilio. Employee Resource Groups help Twilions find a sense of community and support within the larger organization. They support us in finding, keeping, and growing diverse talent. In short, their voices are essential in our journey to build inclusively and equitably.
Asians @ Twilio
Black Twilions
Family Nest
Latinx @ Twilio
Spectrum
Twarriors
Twilipinos
Women @ Twilio
Wonder
Diversity, equity, and inclusion at Twilio
Insights from our diversity, equity, and inclusion data inform Twilio’s strategy. Our intention in sharing this data publicly is to create transparency and accountability throughout our journey and to build trust with both Twilions and our extended community. You can explore our data within the 2020 report here.
