The impact of Covid-19 on creativity and cultural expression has been tremendous with heritage sites closed, people unable to celebrate significant holidays the traditional way and limited opportunities to share their cultures with others. The 21st May 2021 is the UN World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development and celebrates the diverse range of world cultures, promotes education on the experiences of others and how this cultural diversity enriches our economy and society.
Mindy Gibbins-Klein is dedicated to embracing cultural diversity and grounding her commitment in real, tangible actions. At the start of 2019, Mindy’s publishing company, Panoma Press, pledged that 80% of its titles would be written by authors from traditionally underrepresented groups. In 2020, they achieved the 80% target for the second year in a row, demonstrating the business benefits diversity also brings, celebrating 15 years in business in November, publishing more books than forecast and reporting its best year on record with highest gross and net profits. This target also extends to Mindy’s other endeavours including The Book Midwife®, which helps authors plan and write their books, and the “Above and Beyond Thoughtful Leadership Conference”.
Mindy is also an international speaker and coach specialising in turning experts into thought leaders and published authors. She has authored and co-authored 11 books, including 24 Carat BOLD. Her latest book The Thoughtful Leader holds great relevance for leaders looking to navigate the pandemic. Her TEDx talk “Sometimes You Need to Change Yourself to Be Yourself” has nearly one million views, and showcases Mindy’s passion for helping people from all under-represented groups to become leaders, and for all people to approach life more thoughtfully.
Mindy comments, “World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development 2021 provides an important opportunity for society to celebrate diverse cultures and provide a platform for others. However, this celebration always needs to translate into sustained action in the workplace and across society. At Panoma Press and The Book Midwife®, we work with and showcase people who feel that left to chance, they’re not being given a fair chance.”
