Meet the BENterns Founders: A Special Episode of Becoming AWSome
Black Employee Network Subchapter for Interns
Ray Thomas
Amazon Employee
Published Jul 16, 2024
Welcome to another special edition of "Becoming AWSome," AWS's live stream podcast where Amazon Insiders introduce you to the Humans of AWS. Hosted by Ray Thomas, Senior Recruiter with AWS's Infrastructure Organization, and Jenna Lass, Principal Recruiter, this episode brings a unique and inspiring story to the forefront. Joining them are the co-founders of BENterns, a subchapter of the Black Employee Network (BEN) dedicated to supporting interns at AWS: Raian Osman, Solutions Architect, and Marcellus Martin, Partner Sales Manager.
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š Empowering Interns Through BENterns š
Raian Osman and Marcellus Martin shared their journey of creating BENterns, an initiative designed to build a supportive community for Black interns at AWS. Their vision was to foster a sense of belonging and ensure that interns feel included and empowered from the very beginning of their careers. The idea stemmed from their experiences and the recognition of the importance of community and mentorship in professional growth. Raian highlighted, "Starting community with inclusion so early on is vital," emphasizing the proactive steps they took to make a difference.
š Celebrating Juneteenth at AWS š
The conversation also touched on the significance of Juneteenth and how it is celebrated within AWS. Both Raian and Marcellus spoke about the importance of recognizing and commemorating this historic day, which marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. They discussed various initiatives and events organized by BEN and BENterns to educate and engage employees on the history and relevance of Juneteenth. The celebration is not just a remembrance but also a commitment to continuous learning and promoting diversity and inclusion within the organization.
This episode of "Becoming AWSome" is a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and inclusion. Raian Osman and Marcellus Martin's efforts with BENterns highlight AWS's dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all its employees, starting with the interns. šš¼āØ
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