On the shortlist: dbGO Fertility Pillar

Co-led by Joanna Araminta and Kirsty Wing, the dbGO Fertility Pillar has been shortlisted for the DEI Innovation Award in recognition of its groundbreaking approach to workplace inclusion. This pioneering initiative at Deutsche Bank brings fertility—an often stigmatised and overlooked issue—into open conversation, acknowledging its impact on career progression, workplace experience, and psychological safety.

Inspired by their own fertility journeys, Jo and Kirsty set out to tackle stigma, provide support, and embed fertility into organisational culture so that colleagues feel empowered to pursue both personal dreams and professional goals. From FertiliTea sessions and the Fertility Expo to the Allies programme, the initiative has created safe spaces and sparked meaningful dialogue across the bank.

Their leadership has also driven tangible change, including new policies on leave and manager guidance, helping shape Deutsche Bank’s broader DEI strategy. The Fertility Pillar is setting a new benchmark for inclusion, with impact felt today and for future generations.

The dbGO Fertility Pillar has been described as trailblazing in bringing fertility into workplace conversations. What inspired its creation, and why was it important to address this dimension of inclusion?

As Co-Chairs of the dbGO Fertility Pillar, our own fertility journeys have shown us just how isolating – and at times overwhelming – the process can be. But those challenges also fuelled our determination to spark change and provide a platform of support in the workplace – as we can’t leave our fertility challenges at home. We are committed to reshaping the conversation around fertility, family planning, and gender equity – tackling stigma, educating, providing accessibility and visibility to support systems and networks. Our goal is, that every colleague feels empowered, supported, and confident in balancing both their personal dreams and professional goals.

Fertility does not discriminate – it can affect anyone, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or life path. By recognising this, we can build a more inclusive and compassionate environment where every journey is respected and every individual feels seen and supported.

From FertiliTea sessions to the Fertility Expo and Allies programme, the initiative has created safe spaces and practical support. What feedback or stories from colleagues best capture its impact so far?

We are incredibly grateful for the positive support we have received so far on the many events and initiatives we have hosted. Each message reminds us that the initiative is making a real difference – breaking down stigma, opening conversations, and creating a stronger sense of community. Here are some of the inspiring words we have received:

• It was nice to be able to speak about miscarriage and the feelings around it without people suddenly wanting to change the topic or realising they needed to be somewhere else (which happens more often than it should). It was lovely to connect with people who understood and very validating in a way to know that those feelings are normal and understood by those who have had similar experiences.
• I joined my FertiliTea session towards the end of 2025 & I am so grateful for the sessions. They have really helped me, offered lots of advice. It’s nice to speak to people to know exactly what you’re going through. For anyone who is struggling with fertility issues I would definitely recommend they attend one of the FertiliTea sessions.
• The important work Kirsty and Joanna are doing on top of their busy days jobs is nothing but inspirational. They started with the Network in the UK but have a global reach now – due to the impactful and holistic work, they are doing.

Policy change has been a key outcome, including updated leave and guidance for managers. How have these changes influenced culture, psychological safety, and progression at the bank?

Culture: We have seen very positive engagement in this topic from all levels of the organisation, and are reducing the stigma around fertility planning, normalising conversations that were previously considered private or taboo. This signals that our colleagues feel valued beyond their immediate work output, strengthening engagement and loyalty. To provide the important tone from the top, we are also involving senior leaders in our initiatives, are embedding the content in our Manager Development materials and the Bank’s Well-being Hub.
Psychological Safety: Feedback from our FertiliTea Connect sessions indicates that colleagues feel more supported and empowered in their fertility journeys.
Progression: Since we are still in the early stages, we hope this initiative will help retain talented employees while also attracting new talents, by offering more flexible and equitable career progression – ultimately diversifying leadership pipelines.

Tackling a sensitive, deeply personal topic inevitably brings challenges. What hurdles did you face in building and scaling the Fertility Pillar, and how did you adapt along the way?

Addressing a deeply personal and sensitive topic like fertility naturally comes with challenges. Conversations can be emotional, private, and sometimes uncomfortable, making it difficult for colleagues to engage openly.

However we have stayed consistent, no matter what the challenge is, and along the way, we have adapted our events by listening to feedback, refining our approach, and evolving to meet the diverse needs of our colleagues. As the initiative grows, we keep learning and pushing through challenges with persistence, to create a lasting impact that drives real change within the organisation.

The Fertility Pillar now works across wellbeing, HR, and senior leadership, with global reach. How is it shaping Deutsche Bank’s wider DEI strategy, and what role do partnerships with organisations like Fertility Matters at Work play?

By working closely with Deutsche Bank’s Well-being team, HR and senior leadership, we are shaping inclusive policies that ensure fertility is visible and well understood. Partnerships with organisations like Fertility Matters at Work are vital, as they serve as Trusted Advisors and provide valuable metrics that help guide, innovate and strengthen our initiative.

Looking ahead, what’s next for the Fertility Pillar and how do you see the initiative continuing to break stigma and drive change across the industry?

This is just the beginning! Our next milestone is to get the Fertility Matters At Work Fertility Friendly Employer accreditation, and with the continued support from our well-being, HR and senior leadership, we are driving forward to create a workplace that truly empowers and includes everyone.