“Tell me YOUR story.” is not a thing I often hear at a corporate gig. Sometimes, I am just a vendor who is there to provide an exciting experience. People participate wonderfully and then turn back to their work conversations. But not yesterday.
I had the opportunity to do a Diwali dances and stories workshop at a joint celebration between Capco, Molson Coors, Mars, and more. Not only was it beautifully organized, but every person who participated was so engaged! I was already beaming after the workshop when someone came over to learn more about me. More people joined, and then some more, and suddenly I felt that I fully belonged in that space.
Cultural celebrations in the workplace are not simply about an event or a holiday. They are one of the few moments when people feel invited to connect as humans. When a space encourages curiosity, conversation, and genuine listening, it creates a true sense of belonging.
And while I am usually the one working towards this goal at events, yesterday, a kind stranger did the same for me.
Thank you to the organizers who made that environment intentional and thoughtful. It was clear that this was not just a “Diwali activity” but a meaningful effort to create an event where people can show up as themselves. And that matters far beyond one evening.
