Mr. Grant T. Harris

The journey of writing "The Power of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Success" and the following editions has been filled with both anticipation and vulnerability, marking the beginning of a different chapter in my life. As I embark on this adventure, I am eager to share the stories and experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. My path toward embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has been transformative. It has opened my eyes to the struggles and triumphs of those around me, compelling me to examine my own biases and prejudices.

I have had the fortune to travel the country and the world. I believe the world is a book, and if you never leave home, you only see one page. My experiences, both personal and professional, in Canada, China, the Caribbean, and Europe have exposed me to multiple cultures and the intricacies therein. In addition to this, I am also in a multicultural marriage. My wife is of Middle Eastern descent and holds a strong connection to her family history. This led me to learn Arabic and open myself to learning aspects of her culture that differ from mine. These experiences give me a unique and varied perspective on DEI, both interpersonally and corporately.

By combining my lived experience with industry knowledge led me to become certified in DEI management and subsequently earn the Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) credential from the Institute of Diversity Certification, which indicates excellence in DEI leadership and proven abilities to manage DEI at the board, staff, customer, and supply chain levels. The CDEŽ is designed to strategically position those with the designation to remove systemic barriers to equity, align enterprise-wide strategies for inclusion, and transform the organizational culture. The credential also challenges executives to align DEI with organizational goals and progress beyond diverse representation toward thought leadership.

And that is why I am here, writing this book and sharing my experiences with you. I want you to know that you are not alone in your journey. Together, we will explore the power of DEI and how they can unlock new possibilities for personal and professional growth. I will provide you with the knowledge, insights, and practical guidance to navigate the challenges and create an inclusive culture that celebrates our unique contributions. So, as we embark on this transformative journey, remember that your age, race, disability, or another mitigating factor does not limit your potential. Instead, they enrich the essence of who you are and the value you bring to the table.

Wishing the best that life has to offer to you,

Grant T. Harris