Inclusive Science and Business Doesn’t Happen by Accident; It Happens When We Choose It

Abstract

Diversity in a team or group is critical, especially for solving complex problems, including those we are facing in the global food system, through scientific discovery and innovation. Through this article pieces of my personal journey with diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) will be shared, along with the positive impacts DEI can have on business and science outcomes. Although there is a significant number of credible publications describing these positive outcomes, the scientific community, organisations and businesses are not yet capturing the full value of DEI. Information is provided to give a view of where we are today. Actions are suggested to help unlock this opportunity across all scientific organisations, communities and businesses. Stories of real impact focused on how diverse people are positively impacting the global food systems today are shared. By ensuring everyone in our work, science, and other communities are included and have a deep feeling of belonging, we can harvest the full value of DEI.