Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/1527945
22 THE ASSINIBOIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • FALL 2024 A S S I N I B O I A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E By David Drake Embracing Diversity: The Workforce Shift Shaping Tomorrow's Success D iversity is more than just a buzzword— embracing a diverse workforce means bringing together individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. This can lead to broader thinking and a more effective, dynamic, and supportive work environment. As businesses navigate the world's complexities, the importance of diversity in the workplace cannot be overstated. Robyn Penner Thiessen Consulting comprises individuals from three ethnic backgrounds, two major world religions, and two dif- ferent genders, offering diverse perspectives and insights into the workplace. They help businesses reimagine and reshape their or- ganizational cultures, promoting inclusivity while staying true to their core values. "I have two pretty incredible associates. Amna Burki is a pro- fessional storyteller and people are literally mesmerized when she starts to tell stories. We integrate folktales from around the world into our workshops, and people love listening to stories. Vurayayi Pugeni brings his experience of being in leadership positions in Canada, but he wasn't part of the dominant cul- ture, right? So, he's had these experiences within Canadian organizations, and that kind of experience really informs and shapes our inclusive leadership program." Robyn became interested in diversity and inclusion before she even knew what those terms meant. "I went to university in Virginia and was part of a team of student counsellors. We were invited to help local high schools that were experiencing a lot of racial conflict, and we would spend the day bringing the diverse student body, the student leaders, the kids who had been suspended, and the kids in the gangs, together to hear each oth- er's stories. Through those workshops, they start- ed to see each other differently and have some empathy and understanding. That was a very significant experience for me, coming from rural Manitoba. I came from this real place of naivety." Early in their marriage, Robyn and her husband WORKFORCE TRENDS & DEVELOPMENT Robyn Penner Thiessen helps businesses reimagine & reshape their workplace culture. (Submitted)