Professional Fighters League

News Headlines

Positioning Diversity and Inclusion as a Key Corporate Priority with Guidance from Training & Development Solutions



The Challenge

In 2020, as situations of social unrest unfolded across America, many business owners and leaders began to look a bit closer at organizational policies centered around diversity, equality, and inclusion. Many saw an opportunity to do more, and to do better, to nurture a more positive and inclusive culture for their teams, their clients, and their community at large. Leaders at Professional Fighters League (PFL) wanted to engage their employees in meaningful conversations about embracing diversity, equality, and inclusion, and integrating it a deeper level. How to facilitate those conversations and bring actionable items away was the first challenge.

The Design

PFL employs of team of 40. The company operates two offices in New York City and one in Las Vegas, and some employees work at independent locations throughout the country. Collectively, the team’s goal is to re-imagine the sport of mixed martial arts (MMA) for the betterment of athletes and fans. In thinking about diversity, equality, and inclusion, PFL leaders knew they needed a training program customized to their unique culture, needs, and goals. They found a solution by partnering with Training & Development Solutions by Howard Community College. The company’s first engagement was a diversity and inclusion education and awareness session, held virtually during the summer of 2020. It opened a door for PFL team members to connect and interact in new ways. Participants were encouraged to talk openly and honestly about diversity and inclusion practices and opportunities, with emphasis on ways the team could collaborate to create positive change.

The Impact

The most immediate impact of PFL’s investment in diversity and inclusion training was that employees felt their company was investing in their growth and professional development. In tandem, PFL employees knew their voices mattered and were heard. They had an opportunity to share stories, perspectives, and ideas on a topic that impacts every person’s life on some level, both in and out of professional environments. PFL is mapping out plans for ongoing training, to assure diversity, equality, and inclusion remain a key organizational priority and that a platform exists for continued open dialogue in the future.