Live from CultureCon West 2025: Why Belonging Belongs in the Business Strategy with Latesha Byrd

Belonging isn't a soft skill, it's a performance strategy. 💡

Live from CultureCon West, Nikki sits down with Latesha Byrd to explore why people can't reach their highest potential when they're masking, code switching, or questioning whether they're truly valued at work. Latesha breaks down how belonging connects directly to innovation, engagement, wellbeing, and business results, especially in a world shaped by burnout, restructuring, AI, and constant change.

Together, Nikki and Latesha challenge HR leaders to think beyond "human resources" and step into "human potential." From onboarding and ERGs to strengths-based leadership and C-suite alignment, this conversation is a powerful reminder that the future of performance starts with helping people feel safe, seen, and supported.

Additional Resources:

Connect with Latesha on LinkedIn

Learn more about Perfeqta

Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn

Connect with Zach on LinkedIn

Connect with Nick on LinkedIn

Learn more about CultureCon

Subscribe to CultureCon's YouTube channel!

Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn

Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Key Takeaways:

• Belonging fuels stronger team performance.
• Inclusion creates the conditions for belonging.
• HR must prioritize human potential.
• AI can support more human leadership.
• ERGs reveal real employee sentiment.