Leah Lint

Diversity, equity and inclusion consultant, EMC Insurance Cos.

Age: 34

Spouse: Danny Lint 

Reasons she is a Forty: Leah is committed to leaving the world a better place and leads with equity and sustainability top of mind. As a DEI practitioner, she works to uplift underserved and underrepresented communities. She previously served on the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s inclusion council and United Way of Central Iowa’s 21-Day Equity Challenge committee. She volunteers with the Chrysalis Foundation and is a graduate of Lead DSM’s Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute and Community Connect programs. She gives back as a mentor on the curriculum and project committees where she can support the growth and development of future community stewards.

What are your goals in your role at your company? I strive to embed diversity, equity and inclusion throughout the employee life cycle and across the organization. I’m focused on expanding education, diversifying talent and activating business resource groups. My goal is to empower all team members to be catalysts for positive change in and outside the workplace.

What are your goals for your community involvement? My goal is simply to leave the community better than it was. I want to expand access to Des Moines’ many benefits and ensure equitable opportunities exist for everyone to live the life they want.

What's your biggest passion, and why? Action. Every day is an opportunity to make progress toward our goals in life, at work or in the community. It’s not always easy to see the impacts of our efforts, but even the smallest of actions add up and can change the world. 

What is it that drives you? Growing up I struggled to find my identity and to have confidence to be myself. As a biracial woman in our society, I’ve faced challenges and have gone through hardship, but I’ve also experienced so much privilege. I want to use my experiences and privilege for good.

What are your future aspirations? I never imagined I would be where I am today, so I’m keeping an open mind about the future. I’m passionate about equity and environmental sustainability and still have more work to do in both spaces. I’d also love to learn to code and to speak a second language.

Three hobbies: All kinds of crafting, game nights, and reading lots of mysteries and thrillers.

Fun fact: She’s a lifelong fan of Bill Nye and follows his mantra to “change the world.” Her love for science is always on display through her tattoos and science-themed office.

One word to describe you: Curious.

What is your wish for the Central Iowa business community? My wish is for everyone, and all organizations, to fully commit to advancing equity and dismantling systemic barriers. The business community has immense power and ability to drive real change that will have far-reaching impacts.

What's one piece of advice that you would give to a young professional? Never stop growing. There is always something new to learn, someone new to meet, and something new to experience. Leaders that grow and evolve with our ever-changing world will make our community stronger.

What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address? I think it’s imperative that we reexamine workforce and workplace norms and expectations. The world is changing rapidly. The needs and desires of employees and consumers are evolving. Outdated practices are not going to cut it moving forward. We must refocus and put people at the center. We must take care of each other, especially our most vulnerable populations. When people’s physical, mental and emotional needs are met, business success and profit will follow.

Anything else you haven't addressed that people must know about you? I am always looking for new book and podcast recommendations. Please feel free to share your favorites with me!