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About the Author

Tiny Rice Grains explores the human side of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).

Given the business case that diverse and inclusive organizations thrive and drive better performance, the question begs to be asked: why are so many organizations still struggling to implement and embed DEI in the workplace?

The book explores this question and tackles how DEI strategies are often approached. as standalone initiatives rather than being woven into the fabric of the organization. Too many people are still afraid to have brave conversations and confront uncomfortable truths in the realm of DEI.

What strikes me as I work in this area is the impact that small actions can have. Like dropping a single rice grain into water creates ripples, small acts of kindness and inclusion can have ripple effects, inspiring others to do the same and creating a cascading impact for those around us.

Each of our small actions adds up to a greater whole. DEI doesn’t need one passionate person leading the charge. It needs all of us to do our part, in whatever small ways we can, to make our workplaces more inclusive.

I have found the three principles of courage, curiosity, and care to be useful when approaching DEI, and I share my learnings in this area throughout my book. I also bring in other people’s stories and perspectives, widening the conversation and giving readers a chance to learn from a collective wisdom far greater than mine alone.
Lyn R Lee, an influential figure in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) space, brings a wealth of experience and a uniquely Asian perspective to her debut book, Tiny Rice Grains.

She was the first Asian woman to be appointed as Shell’s Global Chief DEI Officer (from 2018 to 2024).

Her approach is rooted in courage, curiosity, and care, three principles that have enabled the integration of DEI as a core part of the organization’s identity.

Her experience and insights are widely sought, including by internationally renowned publications such as Bloomberg, Channel News Asia, The Straits Times, Her World and was also inducted into the Robb Report Thought Leaders community in 2024.

Under Lyn’s excellent leadership and vision, Shell has received numerous prestigious awards in DEI, including Cannes Corporate Media and TV awards and EVCOM Clarion GOLD award for DEI engagement strategy; Brandon Hall DEI GOLD awards for Best Advance in Leadership Development for Women and Best Use of AI to Improve DEI and Belonging Programmes.

She also serves as the chairwoman of the board of advisors for the School of Humanities & Interdisciplinary Studies at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore.

Tiny Rice Grains offers an intimate glimpse into Lyn’s journey, weaving together personal anecdotes, insights, and reflections on the global DEI landscape through an Asian lens. She also brings in other people’s stories and perspectives, widening the conversation and giving readers a chance to learn from a collective wisdom far greater than hers alone.

Tiny Rice Grains is an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of DEI and the power of inclusive leadership.

Authors

Tiny Rice Grains: How Small and Impactful Actions Build Inclusive Workplaces