what. a. year.

Aug 6

published 12.28.17

In 2017 we elected our first openly trans public officials. The first woman (and woman of color) became Mayor of New Orleans. The first Muslim actor won an Oscar. Disney aired its first show about a boy’s coming out story. The #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo movements swept the country, galvanizing millions. The first South Asian and first black woman hosted SNL (we couldn’t believe that one either).

This year has been one of rising tensions, harmful division, and big wins for diversity champions. We still have a long way to go to make our society more equitable and inclusive, but it’s worth taking a moment to celebrate some important victories — particularly after a year like this.

Nine months ago in a coffee shop in San Francisco, we set out to:

1. Start a consulting firm owned and run by women, and hire talent that reflects the beautiful diversity of our country.

Being the only woman in the room, the only person of color, or both was no longer acceptable to us. While it seems the entire nation is waking up to latent issues of race, gender, power and identity (that were no less real last year), the divide is still growing as people find their platforms and become more angry and violent towards the “other” side. This type of dialogue is ineffective and troubling. Our work aims to offer everyone a seat at the table, even if (and especially when) we don’t agree with each other. Prioritizing the inclusion of diverse voices is critical for a truly productive debate.

2. Disrupt traditional corporate responsibility consulting by providing flexibility and the best possible experience to the experts we hire, our clients, and ourselves.

We built our business on the bet that we weren’t the only professionals looking for an alternative to what’s become standard in consulting today (not enough pay and long hours). We were right. Our vision has resonated with experts and clients alike this year, drumming up excitement for what’s to come.

3. Follow a no assholes policy.

While not an official policy of ours, from the start we knew we wanted to build relationships with smart, driven change-makers who are also reasonable, pleasant, inspiring humans. We have been fortunate to encounter clients who support and believe in our vision, and who live the values we hold dearest in their every day lives. The energy we put out was met with a humbling reception, allowing us to collaborate with incredible partners. For that, we are so grateful.

What’s next for qb.?

In 2018 we will be ramping up our sustainability reporting and diversity and inclusion trainings and working to grow our network of experts to include an even broader mix of talent.

While these are trying times, we are so proud to be contributing our voice, your voice to Corporate America to help shape future policies around sustainability, equity, diversity, and inclusion. A special thanks to our clients, who not only keep our doors open, but allow us to follow through on our promise of donating 1% of our profits to the International Rescue Committee.

If you are interested in learning more about our work, please reach out. We would love to start a conversation.

-Noemí + Sam