Challenges and Learning Curves: This Leader’s Journey to Becoming an Impactful Ally

Harvard Business Review’s research suggests that allyship is more appreciated than you might think. Everyone wants to work for a company and in an environment where they feel heard, respected, and valued. When people feel they can bring their authentic selves to work each day, their work reflects that. Allyship is not a one-size-fits-all solution and is often met with hesitancy, uncertainty, and learning, but working toward a more inclusive workplace is the end goal for all. 

For Kelly Olin, Senior Vice President of Digital Technology & Data at Cargill, a true ally is someone who is “an empathetic ear and a fearless and relentless advocate in all rooms.” 

Allies support their colleagues by listening, learning, empathizing, and contributing in their own unique ways to make a positive impact. Olin strives to be an effective ally herself, and her path to allyship has been an evolution. “It took me many years to embrace my allyship,” Olin tells Fairygodboss. “I spent most of my career in areas that were not super diverse. I just wanted to fit in.”

For example, she recalled a time early in her career when a colleague pointed out that she was the only woman in a meeting—something she hadn’t noticed but has now become a profound memory.

“Whether I wanted to admit it or not, I had a role to play,” she says, adding that it has been important for her to show up as her whole self at work to empower others to do the same. “I had to learn to lean into who I authentically am. Today, that means talking about being a mom and a woman. I don’t hide it. I consciously make it part of my story.”

We caught up with Olin to talk more about her journey to becoming an ally and her day-to-day work to empower the people she works with. Here’s what she had to say.

What has been your best learning moment in your journey to becoming an ally? 

In college, I taught a women’s studies class that was taken by many athletes. I saw Division 1 football players really lean into the topics and talk openly about the roles they needed to play in advocating for others. It was super impactful for me, personally, as someone who probably struggled to say I was a feminist at that point in life. The players were comfortable in their own skin, understood their influence, and wanted to be part of making a better world, which I learned from.

What do you do in your day-to-day work (and beyond) to serve as an ally?
While life is always busy, I try to consciously notice the demeanor of others and see changes in their moods (in other words: “read the room”). So, if I see out-of-character behaviors, I directly address them. Doing so creates the space for others to share what is really going on. I can only help if I can see what is happening through the eyes of others.

What is your best advice for others who want to become better allies? 

Everyone has a voice; everyone has influence. Recognizing and being conscious of that is how you can become an effective ally. Start by understanding your role in the environments in which you operate. Your allyship must be unique to you for it to be authentic. 

Does Cargill have any ally-related programs?

We have Business Resource Groups (BRGs) that are open to all employees, and we run events throughout the year to support these communities. However, I get most excited about our Cargill Women’s Network.

What can other companies learn from how Cargill handles allyship? 

At Cargill, we actively talk about allyship. Our leadership team talks about how we actively foster all talent. We want to ensure an inclusive and special workplace for everyone. Some ways we do this beyond proactive discussions about supporting a wide range of talent across the company are through inclusive uniforms and facilities (including designated restrooms, locker rooms, lactation rooms) in our worldwide plants.

Cargill operates in industries that have traditionally lacked broad representation. However, that hasn’t stopped us from advocating for access and opportunity for all and fostering an inclusive workplace. Inclusivity is part of our values and how we do business.