Episode 2: A personal journey to inclusion: from indifference to insight
Published on 12 November 2024 • Hosted by Dr Lisa Colledge
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In this latest episode of Culture by NeuroDesign, I reflect on my transformation from being indifferent to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives to becoming a passionate advocate for inclusion.
My early indifference stemmed from my upbringing. Having a strong, disabled grandfather who never complained, and being successful academically, I didn’t initially feel the need to engage with DEI efforts.
However, several pivotal moments, including an experience with a male colleague feeling out of place at a women’s inclusion event, and my own uncomfortable realization that I was chosen for a major speaking engagement because of my gender, began to shift my perspective. These incidents made me reconsider the focus of diversity initiatives and ultimately led me to understand and advocate for the power of cognitive inclusion.
Cognitive inclusion – which enables the different ways people think – became deeply personal when I discovered my son was neurodivergent. As I got involved in initiatives for disability inclusion, I saw that fostering cognitive diversity benefits everyone, not just neurodivergent individuals. I also realized that inclusion is more powerful than simply striving for diversity numbers. True inclusion must be fair and inclusive, and create environments where everyone can thrive, not only a defined sub-group.
Through this journey, I’ve learned that inclusion isn’t about ticking boxes for representational diversity but about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has the tools and environment to succeed. By making cognitive inclusion my priority, I’ve seen how it transforms not only people’s experiences but also business outcomes.
