In episode #106 of our Growth Series podcast, Gurpreet Chahal, Corporate Account Manager at Accord Mortgages, engages in a deeply personal and significant conversation with industry colleagues Paul Purewal, Corporate Relationship Manager at Coventry Building Society and John Samra, Senior Mortgage and Protection Adviser at Just Mortgages . The discussion focuses on the importance of names, cultural identity and the experiences of changing names to fit into Western society.
To mark South Asian Heritage Month, which runs from July 18th to August 17th, the discussion explores why some individuals from South Asian backgrounds may choose to adopt more Western or easily pronounceable names to fit in. This year's theme, "Free to Be Me," resonates deeply throughout the conversation as our guests discuss the impacts of such decisions.
Paul Purewal’s journey through the mortgage industry for the past 23 years has seen him traverse various roles, from starting in branches as a cashier to becoming a corporate relationship manager. Paul reflects on how using 'Paul' seemed easier in a working environment but acknowledges the traditional and cultural significance of his birth name, Punbir. He now feels more comfortable with people knowing and using his real name if they wish to.
John Samra’s career in the mortgage industry began in 2014 and he now works as a self-employed advisor. He recalls the initial confusion and occasional humour associated with his Christian first name in a predominantly diverse area like Bradford. Nevertheless, his name made him stand out and, over time, became an accepted part of his identity.
Both guests, along with Gurpreet, reflect on how societal perceptions of non-Western names have evolved over time. They hope that today’s society, which emphasises diversity, equity, and inclusion, will continue to progress. They urge individuals to embrace their cultural names and identities, addressing the importance of education in challenging biases and promoting acceptance.
The discussion then follows how the mortgage industry can support diversity and challenge biases, emphasising the need for blind CVs in recruitment to eliminate unconscious bias and the importance of valuing individual credentials over names.
This episode brings light to the value of diversity and the need for continuous efforts to support inclusivity within the mortgage industry and beyond. We’re grateful at the Growth Series to Paul and John for sharing their experiences, hoping that this conversation fosters curiosity, understanding and acceptance.
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00:46 to 22:38