Moving Forward
In what has been a challenging time for the world, we want to let you know about the steps we’re taking in our own transformation as we balance listening with taking action. From its inception, YI has sought to be inclusive, transparent, and ethical in its operations and practices. But it’s clear that we must do more. We must be bold, clear, flexible, and open-minded and consistently represent our core values in everything that we do. ~ Todd Wolfenberg, CEO Yoga International
Therefore, we are re-evaluating our processes of operation, efficiency, and equity internally and externally to better reflect those values.
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We have already taken the following measures:
On Racial Inequity
- Released a public statement to our customers all over the world which outlines our position and our efforts
- Implemented an ongoing evaluation of content strategy and started setting internal benchmarks around the diversity of our content and presenters/teachers
On COVID-19
- Transitioned to online streaming trainings to better serve our customers
- Pivoted to regularly live-streaming classes and created our Community Partnership Program
- Internally transitioned to a fully remote workplace
- Released CDC-compliant policies and protocols for all in-person company interactions
On work from home status
- Reevaluated policies and procedures to support a remote workforce for the future. This helps us in recruiting and retention of a talented, diverse workforce!
Organizational restructuring
We are experiencing organizational growth, and in addition to recruiting talent, we are focused on providing more opportunities for professional growth for people already on our team. In the past year we have promoted from within for the following positions:
- Director of People and Culture (a social-inclusion role)
- Senior Project Manager
- Director of People Operations
- Customer Service Manager
- Managing Producer
- Video Production Team Leads
- UI/UX Designer
- Marketing Director
- Vice President of Sales and Partnerships
We are also consulting with outside agencies for expert guidance on the topics of race, equity, and inclusion to help us sustain our mission in making yoga more inclusive, available, and accessible to all. Our commitment to change is rooted in active listening and participation: innovating from within, being responsive to the needs of our global community, and leading a wellness brand that believes in fair and equal representation. We know this is just the beginning of our efforts and look forward to addressing new challenges together!
Written by Todd Wolfenberg, CEO of Yoga International
