D.I.I.verse Hub podcast: Courageous Conversations

In this episode, Adam Vasco, Kerensa Hodge and Julian Gwinnett discuss the power of courageous conversations in academia.

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What happens when you bring together experts in, diversity, inclusion and intersectionality in academia to discuss the power of courageous conversations? Join us as we dive into an eye-opening discussion recorded at Wolverhampton University's Alan Turing building. With insightful contributions from Adam Vasco, Director of Diversity and Inclusion in Professional Practice, we uncover the true essence of creating safe spaces for authentic dialogue. Adam shares his personal journey, including the profound friendship with Julian and his experiences with neurodivergence, shedding light on the continuous effort of unlearning and relearning biases.

Our exploration doesn't stop there; we transition into the academic realm, where we tackle the critical role universities play in addressing societal issues. From the barriers faced by global majority postgraduate researchers to the underrepresentation of Black professionals in academia, we highlight the importance of inclusive and diverse discussions. The episode delves into how societal polarisation, from Brexit to the situation in Gaza, affects our willingness to engage in meaningful conversations. Universities, we argue, have a unique position in influencing broader societal narratives and fostering progressive change.

Finally, we confront the challenges and rewards of embracing discomfort during these courageous conversations. Julian and our guests emphasize the necessity of valuing diverse perspectives and finding common ground through active listening. By challenging our preconceptions, we can foster progress and build environments where everyone feels a sense of belonging. We wrap up with reflections on gratitude for the enriching dialogue and the collaborative efforts that made this episode possible. Don't miss this profound discussion that promises to leave you thinking deeply about the power of courageous conversations in both journalism and academia.