Making Space for More Voices

Recently I had the privilege of hosting the Coca-Cola ‘Level the Playing Field’ Global DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) Summit - a profoundly impactful event. As we gathered on the eve of the FIFA Women's World Cup Final, we embarked on a shared quest to explore the profound requirements for levelling the playing field, extending our focusbeyond just women's equality, to embracing historically marginalised communities worldwide.

One of the remarkable individuals I had the pleasure of engaging with during this event was Dylan Alcott AO. Dylan is a Paralympian legend, a passionate disability advocate, founder of the Dylan Alcott Foundation, and a very deserving recipient of the 2022 ‘Australian of the Year’ Award.

Dylan brought forth a truly eye-opening statistic: There are over 1 billion people worldwide living with disabilities, making up a substantial 16% of the global population, or 1 in every 6 of us. Behind these statistics lie individuals, each with a unique story, a perspective that enriches our collective understanding, and untapped potential ready to be unleashed.

In delving deeper into the critical role each of us plays in crafting environments that genuinely foster inclusion, Dylan offered a blunt, powerful directive :

"If we're going to speak about someone at a table, they'd better have a seat at it."

It prompted me to think - how often are we really doing that? What more can we each do to seek first to understand before we seek to be understood? 

True progress isn't a solo act; it's a symphony of diverse voices, backgrounds, and abilities converging, not merely acknowledged but wholeheartedly embraced and empowered. Together, we have the power to shape a world that is radically inclusive, where equity and vibrancy flourish for each and every one of us.