Introduction: Walking Together on the Journey of Inclusion

You’re invited to connect with the stories of your fellow DEI people around the world.Welcome to the first episode of the Global Inclusion in Practice Podcast.We are Vivian Acquah and Marjolijn Vlug, DEI coaches and consultants. What we noticed is that there’s a big wish for more connection among DEI people, pretty universally and in a global context.* What is it like to do Diversity, Equity & Inclusion work? * What do we run into? * What other lovely people are out there? Talking about this brings people together and makes a difference. The dynamic between us, your two hosts, adds a splash of depth and a sprinkle of smiles to each conversation.This line of work often comes with a heavy feeling of responsibility. But DEI professionals are not Atlas, carrying the world on our shoulders. We can’t magically make problems disappear. Loneliness in this job can make you doubt yourself and trigger imposter syndrome.The Importance of Discussing the Realities of DEI Work "What is it like to do this work as a person? What is it like for you to do this, to be you? What do you notice? What works for you, what doesn't? Let’s talk about that in a global context." Marjolijn VlugLoneliness: "Loneliness in this job can make you doubt yourself. It can make you trigger or activate your imposter syndrome."Vivian AcquahLet’s demystify what it is really like to do this work from a personal level. Let’s talk about what it is like to face challenges and stay empowered to keep doing more good work. Let’s be honest about how to re-energize yourself and stick with what’s important to you.Demystifying the Role of a DEI Change Maker: "Sometimes it seems romantic, right? It seems like it is definitely the right thing to do. And I don't want to share the negativity of this role, of this position, but it comes with a heavy task, right? It comes with a heavy responsibility that is often not shared or broadcasted." — Vivian AcquahInclusion Across the Diversity Wheel: "[This podcast] is about inclusion across the diversity wheel and all the many spokes that different versions of that wheel have in them. This can be about race, this can be about gender equity, this can be about disability, age, neurodiversity, gender, and so much more." —Marjolijn VlugOur guests will be showing up here to inspire you. You may hear them describe things you’re going through yourself. We invite our guests to share how they, and you, can empower yourself. We’re here to uplift you. We’ll start by sharing a bit about ourselves, as your hosts and human beings, in the first episodes. Then we’ll have a diverse selection of guests with various perspectives and flavors share their stories. A season full of episodes with Diversity, Equity & Inclusion changemakers is coming up. You’ll hear from people with clever brains navigating challenges, with big hearts pushing boundaries, and with sparks of authenticity -  all creating meaningful change. Walking this journey together, we are all the stronger for it. 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