Maria-Luiza is a working student in the HR team and, as a Romanian in Germany, she enriches our DEI team with valuable perspectives!
Who are you and what do you do at Holtzbrinck?
Hi everyone! I am Luiza Cumpănașu and I am a working student in the HR department of the Holding, in Stuttgart. In my role, I support the HR consultants in the day-to-day activities, following the full employee life cycle process.
What does Diversity, Equity and Inclusion mean and why are these topics so important?
For me, DEI means feeling accepted, included, and safe, regardless of where you are or who surrounds you. It means discovering the differences between us, learning more about each other, and realizing that, beyond anything, we are all humans.
As a Romanian citizen living in a highly international environment, I know that, when we prioritize DEI, we are creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, where differences are celebrated rather than feared, and where we can build stronger, more connected communities.
In addition, being part of Holtzbrinck’s DEI Team has allowed me to gain new insights into this world, as well as connect with colleagues fighting for the same goals, which helped me better understand how DEI is a topic of utmost relevance not only in our personal surroundings, but also in our professional environment.
How do you experience the cooperation and interaction?
I think the biggest advantage that Diversity brings when it comes to cooperation is the innovation aspect, that often happens without us even realizing. Different backgrounds and experiences can lead to creative problem-solving and better decision-making, as they offer multiple perspectives when tackling various issues. Not to mention that, on a personal level, cooperation in a diverse environment helps build empathy and understanding which, in turn, contributes to resolving conflicts more effectively, and creating a more supportive and inclusive workplace.
What are DEI topics that are especially important for you?
Based on my own background and previous experiences, the DEI topics that resonate the most to me are intercultural competence and awareness, as well as language access and inclusion. I am passionate to learn about how to better navigate intercultural differences and how to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for people from diverse backgrounds, where everyone feels safe and listened to, as well as where everyone feels like they belong and have the means to achieve their goals.
What do you wish for the future of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion?
I hope to see a greater recognition and celebration of diversity in all its forms, whether that be race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, age, religion, ability, or any other aspect that makes us who we are. At the same time, I hope we will see a greater commitment to equity, which means ensuring that everyone has access to the resources, opportunities, and support they need to succeed in a diverse world. Lastly, I hope to see a continued emphasis on inclusion, which means creating spaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and heard. This involves not only recognizing and celebrating diversity but also actively seeking out and welcoming diverse perspectives and experiences.
And, while I know the topic can feel difficult to approach at times and there is no one-size-fits-all solution, I know I will never stop being more, doing more, and speaking up more for a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for all of us.