Stay brave!

In today's rapidly evolving world, the importance of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) cannot be overstated. As societies become more interconnected, embracing DEIB is crucial for fostering innovation, empathy, and social cohesion. However, the challenges we face—where individuals fear repercussions for their advocacy and activism—highlight the pressing need for courageous leadership and collective action.

DEIB is not just about representation but about creating environments where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. This inclusion enhances problem-solving, drives creativity, and builds stronger, more resilient communities.

In a time when advocacy can be met with resistance or even punishment, it's essential to support and protect those who champion DEIB. Their efforts pave the way for a more just and equitable world, where every voice is heard, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

By standing together and advocating for DEIB, we can transform fear into action and build a future where diversity is celebrated, equity is the norm, inclusion is the standard, and belonging is a reality for all.

Not only will we be a happier society for it, but we’ll do better business as well.

Remembering Legends: Hans Rosling

During a conversation earlier, I was reminded of the late Hans Rosling, someone who has continuously inspired me over the years with his timeless work at Gapminder Foundation.

Hans was a charismatic and passionate leader who, despite so much cynicism in the world, was able to demonstrate to learners and skeptics alike that global health trends have shown steady improvement over the years. His authenticity and sense of humor made listening to data analysis fun. His presentations taught me I could be myself and have work with purpose. Hans also sparked my love for ethnography.

Despite improved quality of life, it doesn't mean there isn't significant work to be done. Many challenge what Hans ascertains in his final book, Factfulness, on several topics such as population, consumption and climate change. Hans may or may not have hypothesized accurately, however, his fact-based storytelling had a way of changing minds and/or challenging them to move beyond assumptions, leading to the emergence of new perspectives.

The legacy of Hans Rosling will always remind me to have hope. He simplistically explained our interconnectedness and the importance of checking biases. By allowing ourselves to continuously learn from data and recalibrate, it's easier to see and believe that we can actually shape a better tomorrow.

Watch: The best stats you've ever seen.

The Optimist Creed

Promise Yourself

To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.

To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.

To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.

To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.

To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.

To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.

To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.

To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.

To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.

To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.