Appreciating diversity through mentoring

Jane Korczak, vice-president of the largest trade union in Denmark, had a mentor with minority background. Jane Korczak is one of the creative and visionary people, whom we have invited to share their thoughts about mentoring and learning through networks on this website. Some were inspired by real life stories from KVINFOs mentor network. We also asked them about important mentors in their own lives.

Be inspired and join the discussion!

Jane Korczak, vice-president of 3F trade union:

"I've had several mentors, both formal and informal ones. As part of a trade union project I have had a mentor with an ethnic minority background. The idea was for me as a trade union leader to gain a deeper understanding of other cultures, as well as better insight into mechanisms of discrimination in the work market.

I have been very happy to have this mentor. It helped me realise how fundamentally important it is that we embrace diversity. And that diversity should not be considered exotic, but simply normal.

Reading the stories from KVINFO's mentor network on this website, I have chosen to comment on the story of  Xiaoui og Ulla. Xiaoui is obviously very open to new challenges and opportunities and does  not stay within just one area of work. So I would not be surprised, if in five years she is working with something completely different - perhaps somewhere else. Denmark could very well end up being too small for someone like her.

With the success Xiaoui already had, my guess is that the financial crisis could open up new opportunities in new places for her. Perhaps in areas of growth like Russia, Brazil, India or China?"

What do you think?
How can mentor relationships add to cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of diversity? Please comment below.