The Connect recently partnered with Reify Solutions to release a groundbreaking report that seeks to shed light on the state of diverse and multicultural professionals in Philadelphia.

The report is titled, “The Connect Impact Report: The State of Young BIPOC Professionals in Philadelphia,” and presents a comprehensive analysis of the current landscape of young multicultural professionals in Philadelphia. 

“We believe that the insights from this report are crucial for understanding and addressing the systemic barriers faced by young BIPOC professionals in Philadelphia,” wrote Senzwa Ntshepe, President of The Connect, in an email to AL DÍA. 

The majority of the participants surveyed are millennials, with 71% falling within the 26-35 year old age range. A large majority of surveyed participants are from the Black community, most of which hold at least a Bachelor’s degree. The top professions represented include healthcare, IT, accounting, banking and finance, business, and management. 

In regards to living in Philadelphia, housing affordability was identified as one of the most crucial factors that Philadelphia should prioritize. Participants also highlighted the 

Importance of community-building through social media and nonprofits. Family, friends and work were cited as key reasons many professionals stay rooted in Philadelphia, while the city’s health and safety, and limited new career opportunities were identified as some key reasons for leaving. 

For participants working in Philadelphia, many expressed the importance of career pathways, equitable workplaces, and professional development opportunities. The report highlights the need for addressing career progression barriers — such as exclusionary practices and limited leadership mobility — and emphasized the significance of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, flexible work options, fair compensation, and the impact of their work on society. 

Overall, the two organizations came together to release this report with goals of driving meaningful change across the city. 

The findings will inform the development of convenings of local public, private and philanthropic stakeholders, programming and initiatives aimed at enhancing city satisfaction, career growth opportunities, and community-building for diverse professionals in Philadelphia.

Overall, The Connect and Reify Solutions have come together to help create a more inclusive and thriving environment for all young diverse professionals across the city.

The full “The Connect Impact Report: The State of Young BIPOC Professionals in Philadelphia,” report can be found here.