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Nurturing future leaders: Celebrating the graduates of Nielsen’s Diverse Leadership Network program

2 minute read | April 2024
Nielsen’s 2024 Diverse Leadership Network graduates strike the #inspireinclusion pose for International Women’s Day

Nielsen’s 2024 Diverse Leadership Network graduates strike the #inspireinclusion pose for International Women’s Day

Nielsen is focused on creating a better media future for all people, and that starts inside our own company, with our people. One of our leadership development programs is the Diverse Leadership Network (DLN). Through the DLN, we are investing in the growth of our future diverse leaders, who live Nielsen’s values of Inclusion, Courage and Growth, and bring fresh thinking to deliver for the clients and markets we serve.

This transformative experience is an MBA-like development program for mid-career associates, coupled with mentoring and high-profile assignments to help them grow their capabilities, raise their visibility, and expand their network at Nielsen. Participants enjoy opportunities to learn new skills to bring their best selves to work, drive inclusion throughout our business, and help lead others to do the same. They also work with cross-functional teams on stretch projects. 

The DLN graduates spent the final week of the program engaged in executive courses at Emory University Goizueta Business School, focusing on leadership, leading through change, and fostering inclusive working environments for all Nielsen employees. 

2024 Diverse Leadership Network graduates with David Kenny, Nielsen Chairman

2024 Diverse Leadership Network graduates with David Kenny, Nielsen Chairman 

In the words of some of our graduates:

“Being accepted into the DLN program was an honor, but right on the heels of that feeling came uncertainty, excitement, optimism, and panic. We had just signed up for 12 months of professional (sounds good) and personal (yikes!) development… I got comfortable with being uncomfortable by learning about other business areas and collaborating with various teams. The program structure gave me a new sense of focus and direction.”

Meilyng Wigney-Burmaka, Governance leader, Nielsen

“My #1 takeaway? Take the hill. As one of the professors stated, “Growing in front of others is uncomfortable.” But do it anyway! Take. The. Hill.
Introspection and self-discovery are very important and another component of the program that resonated with me was handling conflict. Hard conversations challenge assumptions, dismantle biases, and can pave the way for progress. DLN provided me (and my cohort) with the skills to engage in these dialogues constructively. This proficiency in navigating conflict and discussing sensitive topics will contribute to a healthier work environment.”

Alana Leverette, Director – Product Marketing, Nielsen

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