Celebrating Black History Month at UKG: Reflections from Three U Krewers

In the spirit of Black History Month, we're honored to highlight the unique journeys and personal reflections of three members of our BUILD (Black U Krewers in Leadership and Development) employee resource group (ERG). Christopher, Kamaree, and Julian share defining moments that shaped their personal and professional paths. Join us as we celebrate resilience, courage, and the profound impact of belonging within our vibrant workplace. 

Christopher J., Lead Service Project Manager 

What does Black History mean to you? 

Black history means resilience, power, strength, and intelligence. Black history allows me to understand the struggles we’ve overcome, while honoring those who paved the way for us to have the opportunities we have today.  

What does the theme “African Americans and the Arts” mean to you? 

To understand Art and African Americans, you must understand the Harlem Renaissance. Harlem Renaissance artists focused on themes such as the influence of slavery, Black identity, community, and the everyday experience of Black people. 

What keeps you at UKG? 

I am grateful to work for an employer where our leadership team is committed to building a culture of progressive change, belonging, equity, and impact. UKG's advanced technology solutions make it easier for companies to pay equitably and drive diversity. 

How has being involved in BUILD impacted you personally or professionally? 

Being involved with BUILD has allowed me to occupy a safe space in the workplace with allies and others who have the same passion as myself. I have never worked for an employer that is so intentional about creating a space for all.

Kamaree O., Senior Technical Program Manager

What does Black History mean to you?

Black History for me is the remembrance of my culture – appreciating the accomplishments of my ancestors, and celebrating the talented, innovative, and fearless pioneers in Black history. It’s joyful and soulful – from our music and food to our art and culture. It’s a time where we can tell our stories loud and proud. It’s our ancestral heartbeat – the voice and spirit that lives in us every day.  

What does the theme “African Americans and the Arts” mean to you? 

African Americans have helped to create and reinvent the arts in so many ways. Our history and our stories have been extracted into beautiful renditions from artists, musicians, writers, and performers. These genres of art embody our historical joys as well as our pain, which help to ignite the spirit of who we are as a people – resilient.  

What keeps you at UKG? 

UKG has given me the opportunity to learn and grow in my career, but more so UKG has allowed me to be authentically who I am as a person, which directly aligns to our values: United, Kind, and Growing.  

How has being involved in BUILD impacted you personally or professionally?  

My first experience with BUILD was during my onboarding at UKG and I was met with an immediate warm welcome and invitation to not only join this phenomenal ERG, but to bring my ideas to the table as well. They offered me something that was invaluable as a new employee, and that was trust! BUILD has helped me to trust my leadership skills and to be of service to my company.  

What do you appreciate most about UKG’s BEI initiatives and why? 

I appreciate that UKG truly values Belonging, Equity, and Impact as an organization. Their belief and practice to ensure that all people have access to the same opportunities and are treated fairly, truly helps to build trust. 

Julian V., Manager of Product Management

Share a defining moment that helped mold who you are today. 

I’d like to give a special shout-out to Brian Reaves, our very own Chief Belonging, Equity, and Impact Officer, as he hired me in my first-ever job in the technology sector. I learned a few lessons throughout my early career journey: the importance of seizing opportunities, creating meaningful experiences, and finding the right balance between confidence and humility. These lessons have not only contributed to my success but have served as guiding principles throughout my career.

What does Black History mean to you?

Black History means legacy. Here in America, we have American roots, but Blacks were stripped of our ancestral roots. It is a vibrant, expansive, and emotional history, so it is important we continue to document, build, and create lasting legacies for our future generations to see how far we’ve come. Not only here in America but across the globe!

What does the theme “African Americans and the Arts” mean to you? 

When you look at the impact of the contributions of African Americans in the arts, it has shaped artistic expression worldwide. Historically, within the African American culture, we tend to challenge the status quo and provide ourselves a platform for self-expression.

What keeps you at UKG?

The primary reason I remain at UKG is the people. From the moment I joined UKG, I've experienced a warm welcome and continuous support throughout my onboarding. The presence of a community where individuals genuinely care about your well-being and development has had a profound impact on my decision to stay.

How has being involved in BUILD impacted you personally or professionally? 

Being part of BUILD, especially as a co-lead for Business Innovation and Impact on the leadership team, has had a great impact on my personal and professional growth. Professionally, the gratitude I feel for contributing to the business and positively impacting BUILD members across the organization is incredibly fulfilling.

What do you appreciate most about UKG’s BEI initiatives and why? 

What I value most about UKG's BEI initiatives is their seamless integration into our organizational core. At our essence, we are driven by the purpose of putting people first, aiming to cultivate a workplace culture that stands out. This commitment is evident in our brand, products, and customer service. The beauty of BEI initiatives lies in their pervasive influence across these facets, ensuring that we create an exceptional work environment for our employees and deliver outstanding experiences to our customers.