A 2018 study by the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants found that African Americans only accounted for 4% of new graduates hired into accounting or finance positions. Xero is doing its part to combat this poor level of representation in the industry. Recently, it launched an initiative to partner with the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA).

To rethink diversity, Xero is using the collaboration to amplify itself as a leading cloud accounting software platform and an employer of choice. This partnership also allows Black Xero employees the opportunity to access NABA’s professional development and growth resources.

An exciting moment in the collaboration is Xero’s sponsorship of NABA’s 2021 scholarship program. One of this year’s recipients, Joel Guzman, is a Rutgers University senior who received scholarship funds that Xero contributed to assist in his educational endeavors. After graduation, he will take on a full-time position at UBS as a Global Wealth Management GTP analyst.

Xero’s also teaming up with the Oakland Black Business Fund (OBBF) and the Black Business and Professional Association (BBPA). OBBF is a Black-led investment firm based in Oakland, California, offering capital and technical assistance to Black-owned businesses. BBPA is a part of Xero’s international reach in Canada, delivering programs centered around professional and economic development. Each of these partnerships will allow Xero to provide mentoring opportunities to upcoming professionals and access to its cloud accounting software for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Xero understands that fighting racial disparities in corporate America is more than empty rhetoric. It takes intentional work to advocate for historically underrepresented communities. Through its work culture, collaborative efforts and continued dedication to be better, Xero is changing the game and establishing itself as a model for equity.

Visit here to learn more about Xero, its career offerings and its efforts to build a more inclusive society.

This editorial is brought to you in partnership with Xero.

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