Aliyyah Aird

Brainstormer, Business leader, Change Agent, Connector, Educator/Teacher

As the Vice President of Employee Development at FM Global, where I’ve been pioneering initiatives since August 2022 that prioritize meaningful engagements and knowledge sharing. My approach is holistic, focusing on our People, Growth, and Technology, to foster a global learning experience that is both inclusive and expansive. As someone who embodies the theme of the brave and the brilliant, I’ve led with courage, paving the way for groundbreaking strategies in talent attraction and retention, and enhancing performance across all levels of our enterprise. My brilliance lies in the development of high-impact learning and development programs that resonate globally. My strategic oversight and creative design of these programs have cultivated an engaged culture and positioned FM Global Academy at the forefront of Learning and Development.

I am fervently dedicated to the idea that learning is a lifelong adventure, one that has the power to transform not just careers, but lives.

Embracing Vulnerability: The Unseen Strength of the Modern Innovator In a world that often equates vulnerability with weakness, there’s a powerful counter-narrative emerging: the recognition that vulnerability is, in fact, a strength. It’s the brave who dare to show their true selves, who invite feedback, admit mistakes, and are open to learning. And it’s the brilliant who understand that vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation. By embracing vulnerability, leaders and teams create environments where creativity flourishes, where people feel safe to express novel ideas, and where the fear of failure does not stifle potential. This approach can lead to a more engaged workforce, stronger team dynamics, and a competitive edge in the marketplace.

AI, Change Agent, Creative Writing, Curiosity, Global Mindset, Innovation, Learning and Development, Organization Strategy, ROI, Talent Development, Thought Leadership, Transformation

My TED story begins with a vision to revolutionize the way we approach learning and growth in the workplace. Since August 2022, I’ve been steering FM Global Academy towards a future where development is not just a program but a continuous journey that intertwines with our daily work life. I’ve taken brave steps to challenge the status quo, pushing beyond traditional boundaries to implement holistic strategies that encompass People, Growth, and Technology. My focus has always been on creating meaningful engagements and fostering a culture where knowledge sharing and networking aren’t just encouraged but are integral to our identity. This journey hasn’t been without its challenges. It required the courage to be vulnerable, to admit what we don’t know, and to learn from each other. It demanded a commitment to excellence and a belief that every individual’s growth contributes to our collective success. At the TED Talk Conference, I’ll be sharing this story, my insights, and the lessons learned along the way. I’ll talk about how bravery and brilliance can inspire a new era of employee development—one that’s adaptive, inclusive, and forward-thinking.