It Takes a Village: A Reflective Approach to Building Inclusive Workplaces That Embrace Diversity

As career development professionals, we recognize the uniqueness of each person that we serve. However, in a world where difference is celebrated in some contexts but demonized in others, individuals struggle to know when it’s safe to reveal their unique identities, and request the supports and accommodations that will permit them to bring their best selves to work.

In this pre-conference workshop, enhance your ability to work effectively with clients who navigate life differently. Begin by reflecting on your own context – exploring how your layers of diversity, bias, and assumptions shape your connections with clients. Leave equipped to assess in culturally responsive ways, surfacing what’s working (and what’s not) across complex cases. Learn to balance immediate, basic needs with lifelong career development strategies. Support clients in moving forward in dynamic environments by collaborating with a “village” of career influencers, customizing interventions to meet diverse needs, and advocating for systemic change when necessary. Identify your own role in “the village,” bridging the diversity disconnect in your context and community.
 

Core Competencies:  4.1 Respect Diversity and Inclusion; 4.3 Advocate for Client; 11.5 Help Client Build Support Network; 13 Awareness of Diverse Worldviews

Attendance either in person at the Victoria Inn and Conference Centre or Virtually
Register here: Manitoba Association for Career Development - Let's Get to Work Conference 2026