Conflict Style: A Podcast on Different Perspectives

Conflict happens in every team. But in global and multicultural teams, misunderstandings often arise because culture shapes how we disagree, express emotions, and resolve conflicts. When we misinterpret the behaviour of colleagues from other cultures, trust can quickly erode.

Anna Kostecka, an associate of DiversiPro hosts the podcast What Works Across Cultures. In this episode, she speaks with DiversiPro’s founder and principal consultant, Hamlin Grange…

Associate Spotlight: Q&A with Samiha Sharif

Why is inclusion, diversity, equity and anti-racism (IDEA) important in your personal and professional life?

I realized early that people’s ability to have more choices was often influenced by their identity and that a society is only as adept at addressing adversity as meeting the physical, physiological, mental and emotional needs of people. That is what led me to social work: micro-level work as a psychotherapist, helping people access support and have more tools in their toolbox to access…

Why Is It So Hard to Connect with Other Cultures?

For some time now, I have made it my mission to support connections between people, particularly those from different cultures. Yet, the more time I spend doing this, the humbler I become.  

A week ago, while talking with friends, I initially stated that I respect and am open to all religions, but then went on to explain how the rituals in them made no sense to me and to question their relevance to one’s spiritual journey…

Associate Spotlight: Q&A with Kennedy Schultz

Why is IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Anti-Racism) important in your personal and professional life?

I have always had a desire to learn about different cultures. After studying abroad in college, I realized that learning about other cultures helped me gain new perspectives on my own culture and our connection to the wider world. I started my career in language and culture education as a way to teach others about the richness of world cultures and the benefits of developing skills to broaden one’s perspective and create connections across global boundaries…

Shab-e Yalda: Celebrating the Winter Solstice​

Shab-e Yalda, also known as Shab-e Chelleh, is an ancient celebration of the winter solstice, which is celebrated today in modern-day Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan amongst others. The winter solstice marks the beginning of winter, and the longest night of the year. On this day the sun is at the lowest point in the sky, so the day feels darker. From this point onwards, the length of daylight begins to increase each day, as the sun sets later. Shab-e Yalda translates to Night of Rebirth, referring to the “rebirth” of the sun, which will bring longer days after the winter solstice.

Understanding at Last

I used to think that I knew how to engage with different cultures and races.  Although raised in a pure laine French Canadian family in rural Quebec, I had convinced myself after years as a Canadian diplomat and as the loving mother of two mixed-raced Black boys, that I had cracked the nut…