UNBREAKABLE
A Changemaker’s Guide
by
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Encouragement and Empowerment To all you passionate practitioners of diversity, equity, and inclusion, you are the architects of change, the champions of equality, and the world’s beacons of hope. Your work is not just a job; it’s a calling, a purpose, a mission. Embrace the significance of your role in shaping a more inclusive world. Your efforts ripple through society, creating lasting impacts that transcend generations. In times of doubt and uncertainty, remember the words of Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” Your dedication to this cause is the driving force behind the transformation we seek. Embrace each challenge as an opportunity to demonstrate your steadfast commitment and your ability to drive real change. Empowerment starts from within. Believe in your capabilities, your vision, and your voice. You possess the power to challenge biases, influence minds, and inspire others to join this noble journey. Your actions today lay the foundation for a better tomorrow, and your passion is the spark that ignites progress. In the face of adversity, stand tall and resolute, for you are part of a community that stands together. Lean on each other for support, share your experiences, and celebrate your victories, no matter how small they may seem. Together, we are an unstoppable force for change, a collective voice that echoes the call for justice and equity. In the words of Maya Angelou, “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” Keep your spirit unyielding, your determination unbreakable, and your heart aflame with the belief that a more inclusive world is not just possible but inevitable thanks to your unwavering commitment and tireless efforts. Final Words to Practitioners My people, As we reach the culmination of this book, I want to convey my profound gratitude for your unwavering commitment to this transformative journey. Your presence within these pages is a source of immense value, and I genuinely hope that this book has offered you useful insights and meaningful reflections. We’ve all heard the whispers that DEI might be faltering, and we’ve grappled with the perception of inadequate support. In the face of it all, please know that I see you, I comprehend the battles you face, and I am firmly by your side through every step of this journey. This work is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. There is no quick fix to systemic change—it requires persistence, strategy, and resilience. Regardless of the labels or acronyms, at its core, this work is about people—their lives, their stories, and their voices. Whether or not you share my faith, I firmly believe this work is God’s work, as it revolves around the well-being of people. We are here to create space for these voices to be heard. Some of you may be well-acquainted with these sentiments, while for others they may serve as a gentle reminder to pause and reflect. Regardless, I want you to know that you possess the strength and resilience to continue. If ever you need to step away, remember that it is your right. This is your home, and you are always welcome back. Together, we will keep the torch burning, and our community will remain resolute. I encourage you not to be consumed by those who oppose us or act as obstacles, unless they hold the final decision-making power. They are merely distractions. Instead, let’s channel our energy into sharing and nurturing the support we find within our community. In closing, I want each of you to understand that I wholeheartedly believe in your resilience and your ability to create meaningful change. Together, we will continue this vital work, and I am profoundly honored to stand beside you on this extraordinary journey. Thank you for being an integral part of this endeavor and for your unwavering commitment to a more inclusive and equitable world. With heartfelt appreciation, ~Lois
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About the Book
For the DEI practitioners, cultural changemakers, and those carrying the weight of this work—this book is for you. When you don’t have a blueprint, sometimes you must build one—and then become it. Unbreakable: A Changemaker’s Guide is both a resource and a rallying cry for those navigating the complexities of DEI work in systems that are often resistant to change. Whether you are the first, the few, or the only in your workplace, this book equips you with the strategies, tools, and insights to sustain both your mission and yourself. Lois Castillo understands the emotional and professional toll of this work—the underestimation, the systemic resistance, the personal stakes. Through practical guidance, personal reflections, and tested frameworks, she offers a lifeline to practitioners striving to drive impact without losing themselves in the process. This book is more than a guide; it’s a companion for those who refuse to waver in their commitment to equity and inclusion. When the work gets hard, let Unbreakable remind you: You are not alone. You are part of something bigger. And you are, indeed, unbreakable.
About the Author
Lois Castillo is a seasoned strategic leader, cultural changemaker, and executive coach with over 20 years of experience driving diversity, equity, inclusion and cultural transformation across industries. A U.S. Army veteran, she brings a disciplined yet compassionate approach to systemic change, blending strategy with humanity. As a mother and mentor, she understands the personal stakes of this work, making her voice both deeply authentic and powerfully resonant. With a career dedicated to guiding organizations and individuals toward meaningful transformation, Lois offers a perspective that is both pragmatic and unapologetically bold—giving readers the tools, wisdom, and encouragement to stay the course and remain unbreakable.