Empathy & Resilience: The Reality of DEI Changemaking

“The conversations that we had so far have been stretching my brain.” - Vivian AcquahThroughout this season of the Global Inclusion in Practice podcast, we've had the joy of engaging in conversations with diverse thought leaders and inspiring individuals who are actively working on their impact on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) around the world.“This season has been an enlightening dive into many stories of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion changemakers around the globe.” - Vivian AcquahAs we wrap up the first season, it's a moment to reflect on the impactful stories and thought-provoking insights our guests have shared with us. “We've had the privilege to engage with thought leaders and inspiring individuals who are making a difference, each bringing unique insights and perspectives to the global experience of being a DEI changemaker.” - Marjolijn VlugOur conversations have been brain-stretching and heartwarming, with each guest bringing their unique personalities, perspectives, skills, and talents to the table. The connections we've made with these human beings have been sincere and enriching. Our aim is to provide a realistic portrayal of the highs and lows of impact and resistance working in DEI, the challenges, and ways to deal with them. “Think about how we can stay sane in this work and connect more deeply with each other.” - Marjolijn VlugThat’s why in this end-of-season reflection, we emphasize what we find important in doing & being in DEI, from an unequivocally empathetic and inclusive approach to this essential work.“Being a DEI changemaker means that you are able to land on the moon. And every time that you are outside of your spaceship or your space shuttle and you come back to your space shuttle, you need to decompress.” - Vivian AcquahAcknowledging the challenges and rewards of being a DEI changemaker, we call attention to the need for a structured internal and external support system, which is a form of ‘professional decompression’. A key piece of that is staying connected, both externally with each other and to our inner wisdom, especially in this demanding and ever-evolving work.“Decompressing is part of your professional setup. It's actually an essential part of doing this job well.” - Marjolijn VlugVivian highlights empathy as a key catalyst for driving inclusion, with a call to action to train our own empathy muscles and a spotlight on VR as an innovative tool she brings into the field. As we discuss the evolving nature of DEI, what we see ahead is an integration into core business strategies and an expansion of what DEI impact can mean. “One thing I wish is for more people to pick up leadership around this, seeing what they can do and doing that from where they are because I believe everyone can. If you're not in DEI, you can do something from your job, your position, your life, from where you are in your family, in your friend group, or on social media. In whatever you're good at, pick that up. That's really a grassroots type of growth.” - Marjolijn VlugIn our upcoming season, we're excited to broaden our and your horizons further, inviting more guests from all corners of the globe to share the diverse experiences of your fellow DEI change makers. We will also delve even deeper into personal stories and perspectives.Marjolijn Vlug: “Really connecting with these human beings and their personal stories.” Vivian Acquah: “And when you think you know people, diving a little deeper.”Wrapping up Season 1 of Global Inclusion in Practice, we are grateful for all the guest speakers who shared their invaluable insights and experiences with us. Your stories have not only enriched our discussions but also inspired our listeners to work for inclusion in an even more knowledgeable and sustainable way. Thank you for being such an integral part of this journey and for helping us create a space where diverse voices are appreciated and celebrated. Thank you to our guests and listeners for your support. We appreciate having you in our global community. This community, and this work, thrives on a growth mindset and growing connection. “I'm bringing my full self. And I'm inviting other people to bring in their full self within this journey; it's not a journey that I should be doing alone.”- Vivian AcquahDon't forget to subscribe for more episodes, and join us in nourishing and cultivating this field together. Here's to the upcoming season and the continued exploration of diverse perspectives!Listen to the full episode with the player at the top of this page or in your favorite podcast app.Build Your DEI Leadership AcumenOur new Build Your DEI Leadership Acumen program is a tailored way for you to connect with the community, create continuing growth, strengthen your personal leadership, and more. It's a combination of knowledge, insights, and expertise in how to do DEI work and coaching around your individual form of personal leadership in DEI. Join the program to build your DEI muscle, support your DEI leadership, strengthen your personal leadership skills, and be the next thought leader and effective business partner.Vivian will bring her spice. Marjolijn will bring her spice. You and a group of kind, brave fellow DEI changemakers will be bringing your own spices. Together, we will create a magical and unique recipe.Our program offers a transformative coaching journey beyond traditional training, focusing on holistic growth, understanding, and practical strategy development. Register for our waitlist via this form. Reach out for any questions to Vivian and Marjolijn via [email protected] VivianPassionate and driven, Vivian Acquah CDE® is making an impact on the world of workplace wellness and DEI. As the Inclusive Workplace Wellness Advocate/ Certified Diversity Executive, Vivian is devoted to making the topics of workplace wellness and DEI more accessible for everyone. With a name that literally translates to 'water,' Vivian has become an extinguisher of fires related to DEI, providing clients such as Heineken, LinkedIn, Google, Indeed, Deloitte, TIBCO, Cargill, Swift, Acrolinx, KLM and Zalando with tangible strategies for embracing inclusive changes. * Website Amplify DEI* Ignite Amplify DEI™ (Self-) Leadership Journey* Book a DEI strategy call* LinkedIn Vivian Acquah* Amplify Empathy with Virtual RealityAbout Marjolijn:Marjolijn Vlug, a certified coach from Amsterdam, the Netherlands, specializes in partnering with DEI professionals, advocates and allies to create positive change and sustain their journey. With clarity, integrity and warmth, she helps navigate the challenges of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion work, fostering inner drive and leveraging strengths for lasting impact.* Website Marjolijn Vlug * Book a chat * LinkedIn Marjolijn Vlug * Instagram Your DEI Journey This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit globalinclusioninpractice.substack.com