Inclusion and Diversity in Workplace-Reflective BIZ107 Essay

Introduction:

In The globalized environment of today's workplace, there is a crucial need to understand and embrace social and cultural diversity to foster a harmonious and productive professional environment. Diversity refers to various identities that include age, race, gender cultural background and more. On the other hand, inclusion refers to ensuring that every individual feels respected and valued regardless of differences (Garg & Sangwan, 2020). In institutions with high inclusion and diversities, there is a 35% better chance to produce financial results above the national average, hence it is necessary in the workplace (Howe & Curtis, 2016).   I gained deeper insights into the social and cultural identities and how our backgrounds shaped our worldview and professional lives.

Social and Cultural Identities:

During the conversation with my partner Kale, we discussed how our social identity is intricately tied to Australian culture, which values multiculturalism and creativity and culture provides a foundation through which we derive our internal values and attitudes (Asherman, & Bing,2016). Growing up in Melbourne, a culturally rich and diverse city, helped me develop a deep appreciation for diversity and the importance of fostering inclusive environments in professional and personal contexts. Kale mentioned that his social and cultural identity is shaped by being of mixed Turkish and Australian descent, and growing up in a lower economic bracket in Sydney. Kale grew up in a working-class, multicultural environment that shaped his unique perspective on life. Thus, I learned that identity is not based on nationality or ethnicity but on social class and values. His cultural and socio-economic factors influenced his professional experiences indicating that the diversity of backgrounds exhibit social and cultural complexities. These complexities are and multifaceted, influencing how one interacts with the world, professional behaviours, decisions, values, hence the cultural background influences their approach to leadership, decision-making, and communication (Hofstede & Minkov, 2010). This conversation helped me to understand how social and cultural identities overlap and shape one’s worldview.  As my experience in performing arts and ministry has shaped my worldview, influencing my creativity, faith, and sense of community, Kale's desire to work as an event manager and music, particularly in the hip-hop sector, has provided him with an insider's view into the cultural dynamics within the music industry. We both understood that embracing the diversity within our own identities allows us to better connect with others in the workplace.