Balancing Two Cultures: The Challenge of Belonging
As someone who was born and raised in this country, but who looks different and has been a part of two distinct cultures, I’ve often struggled to feel a true sense of belonging. Straddling two worlds can make you feel like you’re never quite fully a part of either. It’s one thing to ‘fit in’, but it’s another thing to truly belong. For me, that belonging comes from being in a work environment that embraces both sides of who I am, equally and with open arms.
The Power of Positive Curiosity
In some ways, I consider myself fortunate. At work, I’ve never experienced negative behaviours or direct discrimination based on my background. However, I know that’s not the case for everyone, and for many it can be difficult to navigate the delicate line between fitting in and standing out.
What I’ve found is that genuine interest in who I am and where I come from can go a long way towards making me feel included. For example, in conversations with my colleagues about weddings in my culture, I’ve been met with genuine excitement and curiosity. The questions they asked were not just about seeking surface-level information but were rooted in real interest, which encouraged me to share more about myself in the future, knowing I would be met with positivity.
Beneath the Surface: What Unites Us
While inclusivity and diversity are essential, at the end of the day, we are all human. The differences we have are, in many ways, only surface-level. Beneath it all, we share more in common than we often realise. However, treating someone as inferior, or even with slight discrimination, creates an unnecessary rift that can keep us from truly connecting. Instead of focusing on differences as a point of separation, there is always common ground that we can find, no matter how varied our backgrounds may be.
To me, inclusion is about creating environments where everyone, no matter where they come from or what makes them different, can feel like they belong.
In the end, inclusion enriches all of us. When we embrace diversity—whether it’s through different cultural backgrounds, experiences, or perspectives—we create spaces that are not only fair but full of innovation, growth, and genuine human connection. In a world that is increasingly interconnected, inclusion isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’, it’s a necessity, and when done right, it allows each of us to bring our whole authentic selves to whatever we’re doing.
It's not just about making space for people at the table. It’s about making them feel welcomed once they’re there.
Karan Rabadia
Apprentice Maintenance Fitter/Electrician
