The National Conference for Leadership for Diversity project took place recently in Antwerp, Belgium. This was a wonderful event that highlighted the importance of the project. The event began with a dinner with a difference; as each course was served a question was asked relating to diversity and inclusion, this led to stimulating conversations between the attendees and provided plenty of food for thought
The conference took place on the following day, it consisted of key-note speakers, a panel discussion and a workshop. Lola gave an interactive presentation of the Leadership for Diversity eHub and she also shared her close connection to this project as a former child migrant in the classroom and how essential these resources are to be more inclusive and so learners feel they belong.
The participants of the panel discussion also shared their experiences on inclusion and diversity in education.
“Diversity is being invited to a party. Inclusion is being asked to Dance” (Verna Myers)…and belonging is feeling safe!
Vincent MERK, Intercultural trainer & consultant, speaker and author, spoke about the convergence between Challenged-Based Learning and Diversity & Inclusion. Vincent highlighted the need to define diversity and inclusion, with a focus on individual choice and the importance of taking action to foster diversity.
DIS Van Berckelaer, Mayor of Borsbeek, Belgium, presented the constitutional framework for education in Belgium and particularly in the Antwerp region at the concluding Leadership for Diversity conference. He underlined the importance of schools working together to meet diverse educational needs. Initiatives aimed at inclusiveness and adaptation to local contexts were discussed, focusing on the role of diverse educational groups and effective educational policies to support diverse student backgrounds.
It was a very interesting conference, and Lola was delighted to attend on behalf of Momentum. You can find out more about the project on the website: https://leadershipfordiversity.eu/
