Identity, Belonging & Inclusion in the Workplace

We’ve wrestled with inclusion for centuries and it’s now at the fore - our world is divided and fractured with inequality highlighted following a global pandemic. In the workplace, there is an expectation that one is able to navigate relationships and teamwork in a diverse and inclusive setting.

This online course is unique in that the topic of race is often addressed as a social justice issue. This course addresses the topic in a way that can bring understanding in the workplace and people together instead of focusing on resentment, white guilt and defensiveness. The course helps you to understand yourself and others better and gives you tools to collaborate more effectively and be more productive in today's diverse workplace.

Gender inequality and patriarchy have shaped societies and institutions for centuries. This online course looks at gender through first-hand encounters Jesmane Boggenpoel - course instructor - has had as she started her career in corporate finance and investments in a male-dominated environment. It includes practical everyday situations in the workplace where women experience barriers. Its aim is not to castigate or suppress men, but rather to enlighten, inform and enable men and women to work together more productively.

A teaching aid is the book authored by the Jesmane Boggenpoel - course instructor: My Blood Divides and Unites. The book talks about her growing up in apartheid South Africa and how she reframed her story by transforming pain into healing and reconciliation. The book includes 12 global stories (an African American, White American, Mexican American, Indian, Pakistani, Nepalese of Tibetan descent, Armenian, Lebanese, Rwandan etc.). It provides a message to all on reconciliation and the lessons are applicable wherever you are.

Lectures incorporate insights Jesmane obtained from research for her book and many round tables, panels and interviews during her book tour. She is a first-generation professional, and in building her career in corporate finance and private equity, she navigated being the only person of colour on the team or/and the only woman on the team. Jesmane brings her first-hand experiences into the content.

While the content and illustrations focus on race and gender inequality, the principles taught can be applied to any diversity and inclusion scenario.

Each lecture covers a different topic and refers a student to a relevant section from My Blood Divides and Unites for reading. This is followed by reflective questions or activities for students.

This is what you can expect:

· Lessons that tackle a sensitive topic in a relatable and non-confrontational way

· A unique perspective on diversity and inclusion with tools to help you confidently navigate diversity and inclusion in the workplace

· Engaging exercises that allow for guided reflection

· 19 workplace scenarios in animation

· Interviews with global thoughts leaders