Inspiring Inclusion: Highlights From The First International Alliance Conference 2024

On a chilly morning in New Delhi, a significant moment unfolded at the Indian Habitat Centre on February 15, 2024. The first-ever International Inclusion Alliance (IIA) Conference was, organised by Global DEI Specialist Shruti Swaroop and Dr Neeraj A Sharma. This landmark event brought together diplomats, business leaders, academics and advocates from around the world. Chief Guest Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State for External Affairs and Minister of State for Culture adorned the stage, shedding light on India's crucial role in leading the charge for inclusivity and diversity on the global platform. 

India's Commitment to a United Global Community: 

Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State for External Affairs and Minister of State for Culture addressed and conveyed the core message of the gathering with authority and clarity. She pledged that inclusivity extends beyond our borders, serving as a guiding light for our global engagements. She highlighted that the mission is not merely to advance without leaving anyone behind; it is a dedicated effort to identify areas where people are marginalised politically, economically and socially. “Drawing on the rich heritage of one of the world's oldest civilisations, India stands ready to share its learnings and best practices with the international community. As a torchbearer of inclusion, India aims to lead by example and demonstrate the values that bind us together,” she added. 

Embracing Diversity to Empower Women: 

Women's participation needs encouragement at various stages of life. Women's contribution in certain fields brings an innovative and fresh approach to the table."The conference spotlighted inclusive growth in STEM, emphasising elevating women in industrial leadership. Expert-led panels discussed strategies like unconscious bias training and gender-neutral hiring, envisioning a future where women excel at every level, echoing the mantra, 'To empower women is to empower humanity'. 

We live in a world where traditional beliefs persist, leading to biased judgments based on factors like gender, education or social status. Fostering inclusivity comes with its challenges, particularly in changing mindsets. 

Addressing the obstacles, Shruti Swaroop, Founder, Embrace Consulting and InclusiBuild and co-founder, ERTZ and IIA, underscored the critical challenge of the need to dismantle stereotypes and emphasise the importance of qualities such as performance, honesty and integrity, transcending background distinctions. “Though we've seen progress, addressing these deep-seated issues will be an ongoing effort. Our journey is dedicated to fostering a workplace that is genuinely inclusive and devoid of biases,” she added. 

Towards an Inclusive Future: 

The realm of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is currently undergoing a transformative phase, marked by the affirmative commitment of companies and institutions, evident in conversations and increased proactive measures. According to the McKinsey Report, companies spent $7.5 billion on DEI efforts worldwide in 2020 and are likely to reach $15.4 billion by 2026. 

Naveen Kumar, IAS, Revenue Secretary/Relief Commissioner, Government of Uttar Pradesh, emphasised the pivotal role of dialogue as a catalyst for raising awareness, fostering empathy and creating safe spaces where individuals can openly discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through dialogue, people can collaborate on solutions, enhance cultural competence and drive organisational transformation towards greater inclusivity and equity in today's world. 

Roy C Thomas, Head, Diversity and Inclusion, Nasscom Foundation, addressed the challenge of embracing diversity and inclusiveness. People with varied lived experiences find it easier to connect with the marginalised. Highlighting that not everyone is comfortable exposing themselves to new experiences, Thomas suggested creating a comfortable environment for collaboration. “Creative approaches, such as incorporating art, music or cultural events, to make inclusion appealing and resonate with a broader audience, can change perceptions and foster empathy,” he added. 

“The International Inclusion Alliance champions a world where everyone, regardless of borders, enjoys social, gender and financial equality. By fostering awareness and collaboration with global entities, we strive to cultivate inclusive environments and workspaces,” says Dr Neeraj A Sharma, Consul General of the Republic of Palau to India and Co-Founder, IIA.