It would be a mistake to confuse diversity with superiority. We would never appreciate the differences between us unless we fully understand the meaning of diversity.

I would define diversity as the exploration of our differences in a safe and protective society that embraces individuals of different race, sexual orientation, gender, religious beliefs, political beliefs, age and socio-economic status. It is about celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity within each individual.

That was pretty easy to express in theory, but what about in everyday life? Does it really work?

Apparently, not everyone understands and tolerates diversity and social inclusion. Diversity is not an option in our modern societies. Look around you and you can see diversity living around you, beginning with food and languages.

Thanks to globalisation, we can appreciate and embrace diversity through products coming from various continents. Travelling also helps to promote diversity. By visiting other countries, you are helping to immerse yourself into another society’s history and traditions.

Eventually, education will help minimise or eliminate discrimination, but I believe we are not doing enough. Governmental entities and NGOs need to better cooperate to promote inclusion through projects that help individuals from different backgrounds appreciate unity through diversity.

Non-formal education must also play a crucial part. Parents or guardians have to educate their children in a way to instil tolerance and respect towards others who are ‘different’.

Let us not forget that we are not only citizens of a nation or a continent but of a whole planet. Respect for diversity is the only way that we can all live together in a free, peaceful and secure environment.

“We are all different, which is great because we are all unique. Without diversity, life would be very boring” – Catherine Pulsifer.