Humanity: The Root of Diversity and the Engine of Innovation
“Many corporations today emphasize diversity in the workplace and society, recognizing its link to innovation and economic growth. Yet, implementation often falls short because we forget one essential truth: real diversity is rooted in humanity, real innovation serves humanity!” Robin Nguyen
Part 1: Why the World Needs Diversity?
Many corporations today emphasize diversity in the workplace and society, recognizing its link to innovation and economic growth. Yet, implementation often falls short because we forget one essential truth: real diversity is rooted in humanity.
Too often, companies treat diversity as a checkbox—assembling teams with varied profiles only to produce innovative products. In practice, these teams may still be drawn from similar backgrounds or privileged networks, unconsciously reinforcing existing patterns rather than expanding opportunities.
Across many cultures, particularly in Asia, challenges remain: gender equality is still limited, LGBTQ+ communities are undervalued, and people with disabilities are denied opportunities. Sustainable economic growth is only possible when no one is left behind.
Examples are easy to find: many countries and companies tend to hire predominantly from their own country or region. When a manager comes from the central region, they often recruit employees from the same area. These practices are not driven by ignorance of diversity’s benefits, but by unconscious bias—decisions shaped by comfort zones and familiarity.
True diversity requires empathy: the ability to feel and value differences. Without humanity at its core, diversity becomes superficial. With humanity, it becomes the foundation for innovation, inclusion, and sustainable progress.
I have spoken at various international conferences, and most of them focus primarily on innovation—how diversity can help companies grow and drive new projects. Yet these discussions often remain analytical and competition-oriented, with little attention given to the human feelings behind the topic. This raises an important question: are we truly promoting diversity, or are we unconsciously blocking it?
Author: Robin Nguyen