Conference Review
Successful conferences sharing diversity best practice
We’re pleased to report that both Engaging Diversity conferences proved to be a valuable, well-attended events. Over 150 delegates joined us in Cardiff and Llandudno to hear the results of the project and from top level speakers conveying their ideas about diversity, equality and learning.
Both conferences were officially opened by current AMs. In Cardiff, Gareth Jones AM, expressed how important it is that Wales “has a modern workforce with positive inclusive attitudes towards promoting equality of opportunity and combating discrimination”. In Llandudno, Mark Isherwood AM emphasised the “real and pressing need” for diversity training in the workforce in Wales.
Highlights in Cardiff included Kate Bennett, Wales Director of the Equality and Human Rights Commission revealing how the new commission will help us to build a more equal Wales. Also, Andy Klom, from the European Commission Office in Wales also provided useful insight into the European perspective for diversity and the history of the EU. Dr John Fazey from the Oxford Learning Institute introduced different approaches to learning.
In Llandundo, Judy Ling Wong CBE (Director, Black Environment Network) gave an inspirational talk discussing how we could bring passion and excitement into the subject of diversity and how we could help people to look upon it as an ‘adventure’ rather than a duty . Anna Morgan, Training Advisor at the Welsh Local Government Association gave an ‘insider view’ of difficulties training advisors can face when trying to raise awareness of diversity.
Delegates also heard the main conclusions of the Engaging Diversity Project from project leader, Pete Butler. It was an opportunity to learn about key aspects such as effectively raising awareness, approaches to eLearning deployment and best use of eLearning communities and the learning platform.
During the afternoon session, delegates joined workshops led by practitioners where they were able to explore the practicalities of implementing eLearning and engaging people with diversity learning.
The findings and achievements of the project represent a 2½ year commitment from our partners working together to develop powerful eLearning and help people of all different backgrounds to engage with diversity issues. We would like thank everyone who has helped to make the project and conferences a success.
