Our Ethos: Pondharshini Sadasivam

2021 marks the third year of Ethos as a company. To celebrate how much the team has grown since its beginning, we want to spotlight all of the talented and hardworking individuals who make up our team!

Over the next month, we will discover what each team member enjoys most about working here and what their personal ethos is.

This week’s highlight is Training Associate, Pondharshini "Pond-e" Sadasivam!

Describe your role at Ethos.

I develop client kickoff and training materials, edit and standardize training templates, project manage all training projects, communicate with training clients, and manage the co-facilitator experience. I also serve the vital function of Producer on live training, making sure learners have the most seamless and streamlined tech experience possible. Through my efforts, I promote the learning and development of all Ethos clients.

What made you want to work at Ethos?

I wanted to work at a place that emphasized the importance of belonging and inclusion in the workplace. I also wanted to work at an organization that practiced what it taught its clients to do.

What has been your favorite aspect of working at Ethos?

I am a learner—that is something that is central to who I am. The amount of learning opportunities I have had at Ethos has been absolutely life-changing for me. I have an amazing team of colleagues that make me feel supported in every way possible, and that has led to a great work experience.

What has been your favorite project you have worked on?

My favorite project has been the Women Influence Chicago Accelerator (WIC) because of the impact it has had on womxn in the tech industry. It is an incredibly fulfilling experience to manage that project and help womxn recognize what they want and help them achieve their goals.

What do diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging mean to you?

DEIB means to be able to be my most authentic self in the workplace—to be able to bring that authentic self without feeling like I need to hide parts of myself to fit in.

What does the word “ethos” mean to you?

For me, "ethos" is the power to influence behaviors and practices in a way that is helpful for both the individual and the community.

What is your personal ethos? How does it show up in your everyday life?

My personal ethos is empathy and understanding. I truly believe that in order to empathize with others, I need to understand where they are coming from first, so I approach situations with the most open of minds. I teach kindness because there are things I may not be able to understand, but I can show them that I am trying.

‍Photos by Tembo Tones‍