American Courage Awards 2024
Sephora: Our 2024 Bridge Builder Award Recipient
Sephora pushes the boundaries of what it means to be a truly inclusive brand
Asian Americans Advancing Justice — AAJC will be honored to present Sephora with the esteemed Bridge Builder Award at the annual American Courage Awards on October 3, 2024.
Sephora’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity is woven into every aspect of its operations. The company has implemented industry-leading initiatives that set new standards for inclusivity in the retail space. From inclusive product offerings that cater to a wide range of skin tones and beauty needs to its efforts in promoting diverse representation in advertising and marketing, Sephora continues to push the boundaries of what it means to be a truly inclusive brand.
This unwavering dedication is what makes Sephora the right honoree for the Bridge Builder award, which recognizes corporations that have developed an innovative approach to successful community empowerment and strives to overcome obstacles for the Asian American community, as well as other minority communities.
Sephora, a global leader in prestige beauty, has long been a trailblazer in championing diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment.
With a mission to redefine beauty standards, Sephora has created an environment that welcomes individuals of all backgrounds to express their true selves. With 3,000 stores operating in 35 markets worldwide, Sephora’s influence extends far beyond its products and services. At its core, Sephora is dedicated to fostering a more inclusive and equitable world, guided by its enduring company values.
At the helm of Sephora’s transformative Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) efforts is George-Axelle Broussillon Matschinga, the Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. George-Axelle has played a pivotal role in shaping and executing Sephora’s DE&I strategy, ensuring that the company attracts and nurtures diverse talent while fostering an inclusive environment for its employees, clients, and the broader communities it serves.
As we prepare to honor Sephora with the Bridge Builder Award, we are also proud to recognize the remarkable leadership of George-Axelle Broussillon Matschinga, who will be accepting the award on behalf of Sephora. Her vision and dedication have been crucial in driving Sephora’s mission to create a more inclusive and equitable beauty industry.
Since joining Sephora in 2020, George-Axelle has been instrumental in building a comprehensive DE&I framework that includes the creation of a leadership Steering Committee for Diversity and Inclusion, as well as the engagement of Sephora’s Equity Advisors and Partners. One of her most significant contributions was leading Sephora’s first national research study on racial bias in retail. The findings from this study have not only informed Sephora’s internal practices but have also had a ripple effect across the entire retail sector.
This award is not only a testament to Sephora’s ongoing efforts but also a celebration of their commitment to building a future where beauty is accessible and affirming for all.
We look forward to honoring Sephora and acknowledging the profound impact they have made in empowering diverse communities and promoting equity in every facet of their work. Together, we can continue to build bridges toward a more inclusive and just society.
Our 2024 American Courage Awards signature event will honor individuals and those in the corporate sector who have shown extraordinary commitment to civil rights on Thursday, October 3 at The National Press Club in Washington, DC. Register to attend here.
Asian Americans Advancing Justice — AAJC has a mission to advance the civil and human rights of Asian Americans and to build and promote a fair and equitable society for all. Visit our website at advancingjustice-aajc.org
