Diversity, Inclusion and How to Promote Them

Diversity and inclusion are two concepts that are trending today. And by trending, I don't mean a temporary hype or a shallow word that will go out of fashion. At least, I hope not. We are, and always have been, diverse societies; from the ancient times of the Roman Empire, through the rise of modern cultures, people have found ways to include – or marginalize – certain groups. Fortunately, we consciously try to build better places for everyone in our globalized world. True, this is not happening at the same pace everywhere. Some countries, cities, or regions have difficulty understanding a basic idea: we should all have the same opportunity to fulfill ourselves, whether in sports, our personal lives, or our professional careers. 

The Universal Human Rights Declaration's first article states: "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.”

Committing to this fundamental, yet not so easy, task is up to us. We must start by understanding our position in the world. We have had to live with inequality, but that  doesn't mean we shouldn't do anything to solve it. If that had been the case, we wouldn't have seen all the social and human rights movements in the 20th century. Some brave people stood up for what was right despite the difficult and risky path.

Even as far back as the late 16th century, poet John Donne wrote: “No man is an island, Entire of itself, Every man is a piece of the continent, A part of the main.” That is, we are all part of something greater: the world we live in; if conditions for others improve, our lives will improve. It is a matter of empathy and solidarity, also of self-awareness. 

Let’s take it to this very moment. In Mexico, things have changed in recent years. Since 2003, we have had the CONAPRED (National Council for the Prevention of Discrimination) and, since 2011, the COPRED (the local council); there are also efforts from civil associations, organized citizens, and, yes, companies. 

So, how do we fit in here? If we lead any of these groups, we have an even bigger responsibility of creating a better society, one that accepts everyone with our differences while providing opportunities for successful careers and happier lives. I believe in that. And I am glad that I work in a company that states it as part of its core purpose: Helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives and making a better world.

I believe in that. We can make a difference at Bupa  because the company acts congruently. Let me explain. We commit daily to a healthy work environment where experience and professionalism are recognized, and diversity is not an obstacle but an asset. It may sound cliché, but it’s not: If we have different points of view, origins, and diverse ideas, the company will be much more solid. That lets us have a better environment inside, provide high-quality service outside, and develop products with a broader sector in mind.

But not only that. We know that we are part of something greater. We know that in Mexico and in many other countries where Bupa has offices. That’s why we have chosen to sponsor national sports committees and athletes. It goes hand in hand with what we do: We are an integral health company that promotes a better quality of life, prevention, and regular exercise, all of which have a positive impact on our physical and mental health. Nonetheless, there is another crucial detail. Since we also care about  inclusion – as I mentioned, as part of our daily drivers – we chose to support COPAME, the Mexican Paralympic Committee. 

We’ve had the opportunity to meet Liliana Suárez, the president of COPAME, her team, and some great athletes. This sponsorship will go on for a year toward the Paralympic Games of Paris, in 2024, but I hope we can go further, continue working together, and have great results. Adapted sports might still not be as popular as others, but we can help them grow and let these extraordinary athletes show what they can do and what their hard work and everyday commitment can achieve.

To wrap up, Diversity and inclusion are trending, but both concepts are now a part of what we are as a society and a company. I'm glad to have the opportunity to lead a great team. We've seen some changes, but many more new things will come. I'm thrilled to find out what we can do if we believe that we are all equally valuable and essential, besides all our differences. It is all about people and helping them live happier lives.