Staff came away with much greater understanding and respect for our very different cultures. We also acutely felt a greater sense of “belonging” and similarity.
As the UK’s principal cultural relations organization, equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our cultural relations ambitions. Our work is centered on building meaningful, enduring and respectful relationships across different cultures. We welcome diversity and recognise that diverse teams can outperform teams that are not diverse.
This is why we dedicate a full week every year to celebrate the diversity of our staff, students, customers and partners. The main objectives of this festive week, which is part of a wider British Council initiative in the MENA region, are to;
- raise awareness about Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)
- communicate and promote the British Council’s commitment and approach to EDI
- celebrate the diversity of our workforce
- celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and Human Rights Day.
A number of fun as well as educational events will be take place at the British Council office for staff, visitors and customers to participate in.
Quotes from staff about last event
“Teachers felt Diversity Week gave them support and a framework within which inclusion, tolerance and diversity could be brought up in class.”
“New bonds between staff were forged and the memories live on over lunch and coffee breaks to this day.”