Every now and then, I feel the need to simplify the DEI acronyms and today was one of those days.
Diversity refers to the presence of different people within a group or organisation, for example, people of different races, cultures, backgrounds, abilities, and identities.
Equity is about fairness and justice, for example, ensuring that everyone has access to the same opportunities by recognising and addressing systemic barriers.
Inclusion is the intentional practice of welcoming, respecting, and valuing people who have historically been excluded, whether due to race, sexuality, ability, or other aspects of their identity.
We are one
Growing up in South London and later moving to Copenhagen has shown me that there is not much difference among people in Northern Europe. We are all human beings who want to be liked and understood, and we all hold passions and beliefs. I think the key is to ensure those beliefs are grounded in facts rather than opinions, biases, or stereotypes.
““No one will really understand politics until they understand that politicians are not trying to solve our problems. They are trying to solve their problems - of which getting elected and re-elected are number one and number two. Whatever is number three is far behind.” ”
Employee fulfilment
There are three fundamental needs people must have met to feel fulfilled in the workplace: autonomy, competence, and relatedness.
Autonomy means having the freedom to make decisions and manage one’s work. Competence is the sense of knowing how to do something well and feeling that this knowledge is both valued and put to use. Relatedness is the feeling of being connected with others.
When these three needs are met, employees can work and function in ways that are highly satisfying for themselves while also delivering strong results for their employers and clients.
We also belong here
When we assert our dignity, intelligence, or leadership, we are often labelled "uppity" or "difficult" which is a form of social policing meant to put us "back in our place." There are a lot of painful and persistent truths that resonates deeply with many people of colour, especially Black and brown individuals navigating spaces where systemic bias still thrives. This is why spaces that affirm our worth, celebrate our excellence, and centre our voices, for example, the Brotherhood for Professionals of Color (BPoC) are so critical. They don’t just counter the false narratives; they help us heal, thrive, and lead without apology.
““Sometimes I want to treat people how they treat me. But l can’t because that’s not my character.“”
The issues remain
DEI was created because marginalised communities have not always had equal opportunities for jobs or felt a sense of belonging in majority-White corporate settings. In 2023, 61% of US adults said their workplace had policies focusing on fairness in hiring, promotions or pay. I have some questions regarding your DEI policies:
Who is formulating the questions?
How are the answers structured?
Who is providing the responses?
And in what emotional state are they responding?
International Women's Day
You are a passionate, creative woman. You may not have all the answers, but you should always know your worth. It didn’t take me long to accept you for who you are, and I will not tolerate being around anyone who makes you feel anything less.
““Truly powerful women don’t explain why they want respect. They simply don’t engage with those who don’t give it to them.””
There is enough
Meritocracy assumes a level playing field, but structural inequalities (e.g., access to education, networking, and mentorship) mean some groups start with disadvantages. Research shows that unconscious biases influence hiring, promotions, and leadership opportunities. The big question is would DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) initiatives be necessary if true meritocracy—where individuals are evaluated and rewarded solely based on their abilities, performance, and contributions—worked perfectly?
““Even after all this time the sun never says to the earth, “You owe me.”
Look what happens with a love like that, it lights the whole sky.””
Outsiders may be attractive
Once you recognise that truth is not always taught to the masses, the pursuit of it can become a solitary journey. While many seek comfort in the support of others, few have the strength to walk alone. I think there is great value in being an outsider. Outsiders often have a clear vision of what they bring, but they face conflict because not everyone acknowledges or embraces their contributions. In other words, as an outsider, you may possess significant value, but that value is not always recognised or appreciated by others. Contact me via email if any of this resonates with you.
Navigating unique challenges
Image: Pixabay ©
Self-awareness begins with self-knowledge, I mean understanding who you are, what you care about, and recognising your beliefs, strengths, limitations, values, emotions, and reactions. It is the ability to understand your emotions and how they shape your perceptions, thoughts, and impulses to act. Emotional self-awareness is particularly important because it helps direct our attention, allowing us to recognise what we are feeling, how intensely we feel it, and where it is guiding our focus. Since attention shapes our reality, being aware of how emotions influence it provides a valuable diagnosis of our current state. Maturity, in this context, involves widening the gap between impulse and action, enabling thoughtful and intentional responses.
Building trust
While offering help shows generosity, asking for help fosters deeper trust because it reveals vulnerability and invites collaboration. For instance, a manager who admits they need input on a challenging project gives their team a chance to contribute, making them feel valued and trusted. Similarly, asking a colleague for advice on solving a problem strengthens the bond between you, as it shows respect for their expertise. Trust thrives in these moments of mutual exchange, creating a stronger sense of connection and teamwork. I think we don’t build trust by offering help; we build trust by asking for help.
Look in the mirror
Historically DEI has been an add on to the existing HR and People Lead team roles, however that’s changed. We are seeing more defined roles, more clear objectives and responsibilities, for example, Learning & Development when done right, has been known to improve workplace culture, bridge skills gaps and increase employee retention rates.
Belonging to a marginalised group does not make you qualified as a DEI professional. I’m a huge fan of research and there are 8 core competencies that DEI professionals should possess:
1. Change management
2. Diversity, inclusion & a global perspective
3. Business acumen
4. Strategic external relations
5. Integrity
6. Visionary and strategic leadership
7. HR competencies
8. Self-awareness
What characteristics does your organisations DEI advocate possess?
Let me know via email.
Saying it as it is
I am not ashamed to admit that watching this video was the most insightful thing I have done today. We DEI professional think we know, this 10 minutes of productive self-awareness may question your biases.
A culture of gratitude
Sharing leadership knowledge about how to create a sense of belonging for international employees. I think active listening is essential for meaningful leadership.
Purpose > Belonging > Personal Growth
Internationals in DK
In 2023, there were 318,000 full-time employees with a foreign background working in Denmark – an increase of 114% since 2008. Combined, they created value to the tune of DKK 322 billion – or 11.5% of Denmark’s total GDP. Denmark is facing a labour crisis and by 2033, the economy will need an additional 130,000 workers.
Unfortunately, only 35% of the highly qualified international workers are still in Denmark after 5 years, and 35% of all international students leave Denmark once they have finished their education. A national strategy for recruitment and retention is needed. Besides policy-changes, we need to start a movement for inclusion. Workplaces, civil society organisations, and informal networks must also take responsibility for making internationals feel welcome and included in Denmark.
Multicultural awareness
I am a global thinker and build bridges by:
a) Being open-minded to other cultures,
b) Communicating honestly,
c) Being trustworthy, thereby reducing risks in business collaborations.
Look inward first
As a DEI advocate one of the things that scare me in Denmark is the gaslighting around racism, homophobia, sexism, etc. If everybody is singing the same song and thinking the same things, then you are setting yourself up for failure as you will be blindsided in your echo chamber. I think that if you put a good person in a bad system, the system will win every time. In the majority of cases the statement is true, the people we surround ourselves with makes a difference. There are some notable exceptions to this statement, for example, Nelson Mandela. In my experience, remarkable people interact with a diverse bunch of people. I think you can get a sense of a person by looking at their social media accounts – Who are they connected to, and who do they follow?
It's just a discussion
If everyone is agreeing with you then you are in an echo chamber and you have just chosen the people to speak to. Controversy is just saying something that someone else just doesn’t agree with. I’m never afraid to speak about any subject that I have knowledge about as I only say things that I believe is fair.
You can book me for workshops, keynote speaking, coaching, DEI trainings or implementation facilitation here.
Know your place
I have developed a resilient mindset in the face of adversity. The truth is I know very well what it’s like to be marginalised and be told subtly or directly that my contribution is not welcome. I have had to tell myself repeatedly, “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them. If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”
Are you open to change?
This week I have attended two conferences: “Ethnic Diversity in Danish Journalism Education” at the Danish Media & Journalist High School and “Role Models Will Create the Diversity of the Future” at the Danish Industry headquarters. Yet again it was confirmed that there are double standards bordering on hypocrisy in the Danish culture, as I think integration is a two-way street and the opportunities within DEI are full of cultural blind-spots. I’m fully aware that you cannot be friends with everyone and that whatever point of view you hold, you will upset someone. Why do HR departments in Denmark never have any ethnic minorities in them? Why do DEI consultants who are from minority backgrounds have less access to the job market?
Active allyship
Allyship needs to start with an examination of self, to better understand the power, privilege, and access available to you as an individual, as a result of the different identity groups to which you belong. Being an ally also requires deep education about the communities that you’re interested in demonstrating allyship toward. In Denmark, there is a disconnect between how minorities and majority cultures define allyship. The majority culture in Denmark think the most meaningful action they can take is to speak out about gender discrimination, whereas minorities think the best thing an ally can do is advocate for new opportunities. I think that cultural understanding and empathy are crucial for effective allyship efforts in order to have a more inclusive and collaborative approach to addressing issues of inequality and discrimination.