In this episode of Connected Conversations, we speak with Lobna Ismail, founder of Connecting Cultures, an expert in cultural competence, diversity, and inclusion. As an Egyptian-American and a dedicated cultural consultant, Lobna shares her personal journey of bridging cultures and fostering understanding across diverse communities.

Key Highlights:

• Breaking Bias and Stereotypes: Lobna shares insights on how to identify and address unconscious biases that affect communication.
• Defining Inclusion: She emphasizes that true inclusion goes beyond representation—it's about creating spaces where everyone feels valued and belongs.
• Cultural Communication: Learn about the role of language, non-verbal cues, and cultural nuances in effective communication.
• Personal Story: Lobna opens up about living with multiple sclerosis and how it shapes her perspective on accessibility and disability inclusion.
• AI vs. Human Connection: Lobna reflects on the limitations of AI in fostering genuine human relationships and the need for empathy in communication.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that challenges conventional thinking on diversity and encourages actionable steps toward creating a more inclusive world.

Connect with Lobna Ismail:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lubyismail/

This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion in both personal and professional settings.

How can art, language, and activism come together to create a more inclusive world?

In this episode of Connected Conversations, we dive into a powerful discussion with Shana Inofuentes, founder of Ch'ama: Native Americas and The Quechua Project, and Eber Miranda, Indigenous Aymara rapper and activist. Together, they explore their journeys as language activists, using art and culture to challenge stereotypes and empower their communities. Shana shares her mission to revitalize Indigenous languages within the diaspora, while Eber discusses how hip-hop became a powerful tool for social justice in Bolivia.

Key Highlights:

• Cultural Activism: Shana discusses her work revitalizing Quechua language through social media activism and connecting cultures through dance, film, and community engagement.
• Language and Music as Catalysts for Change: Eber shares his journey from founding the world’s first Aymara language rap group to mentoring aspiring Indigenous rappers, using hip hop as a medium for social justice and empowerment.
• Breaking Barriers: Both guests reflect on the challenges of overcoming cultural stereotypes, emphasizing that true inclusion means valuing every individual’s unique identity.
• Personal Stories: Shana and Eber open up about their heritage, their deep connections to their Indigenous roots, and how these experiences inspire their mission to uplift their communities.

Connect with the guests online:

• Website: www.ShanaInofuentes.com
• Shana's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shanainofuentes/
• Quechua Project Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quechuaproject/
• Eber's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Eber-Miranda/pfbid02QzT7eHJMpSi4xPe8pQeon7FAnqqAeMPvfhdsTR8tNZDLhMwS8jUQRtTwcwbjFJ15l/
• Eber's YouTube Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5nEOHljKRyI-StKnrJQ9Oxq-QLdYQaz3

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the transformative power of language, culture, and activism in creating a more inclusive society.

How can women in tech overcome bias and lead in a male-dominated industry?

In this episode of Connected Conversations, we speak with Masha Sharma, a serial entrepreneur and thought leader in EdTech.

As a member of the Forbes Technology Council and 500 Startups alumna, Masha shares her personal journey in the tech industry, from starting as a software engineer to leading multiple successful startups.

Key Highlights:

• The Gender Gap in Tech: Masha delves into how societal treatment of girls impacts the gender gap in tech leadership, and how companies can improve their hiring practices to support female candidates.
• Bias in Fundraising: Learn about the challenges female founders face in securing funding, especially in industries like FinTech, where only 2.12% of companies get funding.
• The Importance of Mentorship: Masha emphasizes how having a female mentor early in her career shaped her expectations and inspired her journey.
• AI and Bias: Discover how bias in AI reflects societal issues and how it affects female representation in tech.
• Advice for Aspiring Women in Tech: Masha offers practical advice for young women entering the tech industry, including how to stay updated with trends and use AI to level up their career paths.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion on the future of female leadership in tech and what we can do to promote diversity and inclusion.

Connect with Masha Sharma:

• LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mashasharma/⁠
• Twitter: ⁠https://x.com/genideva⁠

• Medium: ⁠https://medium.com/@genideva/about⁠

  
  

  This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about tech, leadership, and fostering gender diversity in the workplace.