March isn't over yet! Yolande and Latasha end this month with an episode dedicated to inclusion, the theme of this years' International Women’s Day. While looking at inclusion, this episode of Shifting Perspectives also explores ideas around diversity, equality and women elevating other women through sponsorship.  Creating an inclusive environment is the end goal. Together we can grow more conscious and intentional about the progress women have made, while actively cultivating safe and inclusive spaces.     ​

Today is World Down Syndrome Day and I am so pleased to see all the wacky socks out there! I wanted to take a minute to share why this day serves not only to celebrate individuals with Down Syndrome but also as an opportunity to raise awareness, foster understanding, and promote inclusivity within our communities.
 
Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. It affects individuals differently, both physically and intellectually. However, it's essential to recognize that having Down Syndrome does not define a person; they have their unique personalities, talents, and abilities just like everyone else.
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Awareness of Down Syndrome is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding the condition. By educating ourselves and others, we can break down barriers and foster a more inclusive society. Secondly, raising awareness promotes early intervention and support for individuals with Down Syndrome, ensuring they have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. Lastly, it promotes empathy and understanding, encouraging acceptance and appreciation of differences.
 
What You Need to Know - 

• Individuality: Each person with Down Syndrome is unique, with their own strengths, interests, and personalities. It's essential to recognize and celebrate this diversity.
• Potential and Abilities: People with Down Syndrome are capable of achieving great things. With the right support and opportunities, they can lead fulfilling lives and make valuable contributions to their communities.
• Inclusion: Inclusion isn't just about physical accessibility; it's about creating a welcoming and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and respected. This includes providing equal opportunities in education, employment, and social activities.
• Support and Understanding: Individuals with Down Syndrome may face challenges, but with patience, support, and understanding, they can overcome obstacles and reach their full potential.
• Building an Inclusive Community: Creating an inclusive community starts with each one of us. It's about embracing diversity, challenging stereotypes, and fostering empathy and understanding. 
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As we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day, let us not only raise awareness but also commit to building a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals with Down Syndrome and all people with disabilities. By embracing diversity, challenging stereotypes, and fostering empathy and understanding, we can create a world where everyone feels valued, respected, and included.

​Over the last few weeks, I have had the opportunity to speak on the theme of #InspireInclusion. In doing so, I have touched on the topic of microaggressions in the workplace. Microaggressions, although seemly small actions, can pack a powerful punch and affect not only individual morale but the overall wellbeing of a team.
 
So, what exactly are microaggressions? Well, they're those subtle, often unintentional behaviors or comments that convey hostility or insult towards marginalized groups. They come in many forms, from snide remarks to dismissive gestures, and they can leave a lasting impact on those who experience them.
 
There are three main types of microaggressions: verbal, behavioral, and environmental.

• Verbal microaggressions include things like backhanded compliments or subtle put-downs disguised as jokes.
• Behavioral microaggressions encompass actions like ignoring someone or speaking over them in meetings.
• Environmental microaggressions such as displaying offensive images or failing to accommodate diverse needs.

 
It’s important to note that not all microaggressions are verbal. Non-verbal cues, like eye-rolling or avoiding eye contact, can also send hurtful messages. These silent signals often fly under the radar, making them even trickier to address.

Often when I discuss microaggressions in training the first response is, “we don’t do that,” However, as we dive a little deeper, the microaggressions start to feel not so micro! If you are a regular reader of this blog, or have heard me speak before, you know that I strongly feel that the most dangerous bias we can have is believing that we have no bias. I believe this way because we can never underestimate our unconscious biases.
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Our unconscious bases are the ingrained beliefs and stereotypes that influence our thoughts and actions without us even realizing it. These biases shape the way we interact with others, leading to microaggressions that perpetuate harmful stereotypes and undermine inclusivity. (See my previous blog series on Unconscious Bias if you would like to learn more.)
 
So, what can we do to recognize and minimize microaggressions in the workplace? Here are five tips to get you started:

1. Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about different cultures, identities, and experiences. Understanding where your biases come from is the first step towards challenging and unlearning them.
2. Practice Active Listening: Be mindful of how you communicate with others. Listen actively, validate their experiences, and avoid interrupting or dismissing their perspectives.
3. Speak Up: If you witness a microaggression, don't stay silent. Use your voice to address the behavior in a respectful and non-confrontational manner. Sometimes, a gentle nudge is all it takes to create awareness.
4. Create Safe Spaces: Foster an environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Encourage open dialogue, set clear boundaries, and prioritize diversity and inclusion in all aspects of your work.
5. Lead by Example: As leaders and influencers, we have a responsibility to model inclusive behavior. Be conscious of the messages you're sending, both verbally and non-verbally, and strive to create a culture of kindness and empathy.

 
Remember, we're all works in progress. It's okay to stumble along the way, as long as we're committed to learning and growing. By acknowledging our biases and taking proactive steps to combat them, we can build a workplace where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

Yesterday I had the opportunity to spend some time with the women from FortisTCI. We explored the International Women's Day Theme 2024, InspireInclusion. In our time together we chatted about the power of inclusion and the importance of looking inward before you look outward. The question posed was: "How do you make a woman feel comfortable being seated at your table?”

I shared the following tips:

• Reflect on what it means to be inclusive.
• Look for ways to amplify each other’s voices, to provide mentorship and sponsorship.
• Look for ways to minimize microaggressions and use microaffirmations.
• Be intentional about skill-building and knowledge sharing.
• Create safe spaces.

This year I was honored to spend some time with the women of TCInvest on International Women's Day.  If you follow this blog, you know that I have a passion for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. So, I was excited to speak on this year's theme - Inspire Inclusion. ‘Inclusion’ is often the magic sauce to how we create belonging within our families, communities, and organizations.

I concluded my speak with the following words:

"When women support women, incredible things happen. When this support is the kind of no judging, no competing, no intimidating kind of support, we help each other reach higher levels. What I know, is I thrive when I am supported not just by the women in my tribe, but in the everyday interactions that I have with the women around me. We must remember that not all seasons of life come with the tribes a woman may need, and being there for someone else, in a kind gesture, an encouraging word, in creating a seat at the table, can truly inspire inclusion.

This year’s theme, inspire inclusion, alerts us to the fact that inclusion is an intention act. Diversity is a fact. Within our workplaces and our communities, we are filled with diversity. Differences in age, gender, education, social economic status, culture, experiences etc. This list goes on and on and on. The thing is Diversity isn’t enough. Diversity simply means we have difference among us, but to get to inclusion we must be intentional. One of my all-time favorite quotes is by Verna Myers, she states -
“Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance," 

Here are some tips to Inspire Inclusion in 2024:

• Reflect on what it means to be inclusive.
• Look for ways to minimize your microaggressions.
• Use microaffirmations.
• Shine and Embrace the Shine
• Be You. You are the best YOU there is.

Over the last few weeks, we have explored Unconscious Bias and the effect it can have in the workplace and in our schools. To take it a step further, I'm now going to spend time exploring Microaggressions.

Stay Tuned!

In today's rapidly evolving workplace landscape, the significance of soft skills cannot be overstated. As a soft skills trainer, I frequently witness recurring themes emerging in my workshops and coaching sessions. One such topic that consistently arises and warrants its own dedicated exploration is unconscious bias.

So, what exactly is unconscious bias? Well, it's those hidden preferences or prejudices we hold towards certain groups of people, often without even realizing it. These biases can influence our decisions, actions, and interactions in subtle yet impactful ways.

But how do we develop these biases in the first place? It's essential to understand that they aren't a result of malice or intent; rather, they stem from our upbringing, experiences, culture, and media influences. Our brains naturally categorize information to make sense of the world, and sometimes, these categorizations lead to biases.

Now, you might be thinking, "But Yolande, are unconscious biases really that common?" The short answer: yes. Studies have shown that we all harbor unconscious biases to some extent, regardless of our background or profession. They're deeply ingrained in our subconscious and can influence everything from hiring decisions to daily interactions with colleagues.

So, why is it crucial for us to be aware of our unconscious biases? Well, for starters, they can hinder diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within our organizations. They can also lead to unfair treatment, missed opportunities, and a toxic work environment. By acknowledging and addressing our biases, we can foster a more inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
Now, you might be wondering, "How can I manage my unconscious biases?"

Here are my  tips:

• Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. The more you understand about others, the less likely you are to rely on stereotypes and assumptions.
• Challenge Your Assumptions: Whenever you catch yourself making snap judgments or assumptions about someone, pause and ask yourself why. Challenge your biases by actively seeking out alternative viewpoints.
• Practice Empathy: Put yourself in others' shoes and try to see things from their perspective. Empathy can help counteract biases by fostering understanding and compassion.
• Diversify Your Networks: Surround yourself with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Exposing yourself to different perspectives can help broaden your worldview and reduce biases.
• Implement Bias-Mitigation Strategies: Incorporate objective criteria and structured decision-making processes into your professional practices to minimize the influence of biases.

By embracing these tips and committing to ongoing self-reflection and growth, we can all become more mindful and inclusive professionals. Together, let's strive to create workplaces where diversity is celebrated, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

​We all go through it - times when we just can't get tasks finished despite the fact that "nothing" is in our way. Well, nothing except procrastination. Adults, children and teens alike, all battle the inertia brought on by procrastination. Yolande and Latasha touch on topics such as instant gratification and perfectionism along the way to cracking the nut that is procrastination. This episode and it's takeaway tips will help listeners identify what's really in the way, and move from delay to done.

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of joining the nominees for the Annual Prestige Awards at Beaches Turks and Caicos as their guest speaker for their Empowerment Breakfast. This year’s theme- Dream. Dare. Deliver. We had an awesome time igniting and re-igniting dreams, gaining strategies to manage hurdles that arise and choosing day to day actions that help us move towards our dreams.

Congratulations to all the nominees.

We are back to having guests on Shifting Perspectives! For those of you who have been listening regularly, you know that Latasha and I have been taking a deep dive into some of our favorite topics. This will still be the case, but in 2024, we will so get back to hosting guests that can add to the conversation to 'Shift Your Perspective.'

Guest's Bio:

Sara is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, certified International Behavior Analyst, and parent coach with a background in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis. Teaching and parent coaching both in the United States and in East Africa, Sara has been supporting diverse communities since 2006 through inclusive, evidence-based behavior services for individuals of all ages. She has worked on a variety of projects both in schools and with various non-profits creating specialized programs and treatment packages designed for her clients to live a more harmonious life. Sara strives for cultural humility as a foundation in her practice and application of ABA. An artist at heart, Sara is a compassionate and enthusiastic woman who deeply celebrates global diversity.

CONTACT
website: www.behaviorshapes.com
email: [email protected]
whatsapp:+1-561-666-2807

Shifting Perspectives is a conversation with Yolande and Latasha that challenges women to fuel themselves with diversity in the way they think, the way they work, the way they parent and the way they live their lives.

Listen to Shifting Perspectives on Apple Podcasts, Audible, Amazon Music, Spotify, Google Podcast, Stitcher, Pocket Casts, Overcast, Castro, Castbooks, or Podfriend.

Follow Yolande @yolanderobinson
​Follow Latasha @latashastrachan

Yesterday I had the pleasure of working with the leadership team of Public Safety and Utilities in Grand Turk. 

Reaching Your Potential as a Leader challenges and stimulates participants to be intentional about developing the essential soft skills to reach their potential as a leader and to promote higher productivity and collective achievement within their teams.

• Essential Qualities of a Leader
• Understanding and Building Your Team Dynamic
• Effective Interpersonal Skills
• Understanding Conflict

This week we have a special episode to add to the mix! At the end of January, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Maya Saunders, the host of Let's Move TCI Health Talks, to chat about finding balance.

Balance is a topic that comes up often on Shifting Perspectives, so we decided to share the audio as episode 73.

The mission of Let's Move TCI is to increase Turks and Caicos Islands residents' engagement in sport and physical activity and to promote holistic healthy living alongside proper nutrition. 

Happy Listening!​

As a mother and educator, I've witnessed the profound impact that unconscious bias can have on our children. This is a sticky topic, I know...but it’s one that requires our attention and understanding to ensure a more equitable and inclusive future for the next generation.

Unconscious bias refers to the subtle, ingrained prejudices and stereotypes we hold towards certain groups of people, often without even realizing it. These biases can shape our thoughts, actions, and decisions, impacting our interactions with others on a subconscious level.

Unconscious bias exerts a profound influence on children across various facets of their lives. Firstly, it plays a pivotal role in shaping their identity and self-worth, potentially leading to the internalization of stereotypes that can impact their confidence and aspirations.

​Within the educational realm, biases in the classroom can manifest in differential treatment, adversely affecting academic performance and constraining opportunities for specific students. This perpetuates disparities in educational outcomes, hindering a fair and equitable learning environment. 

Beyond academics, unconscious bias extends its reach into the social sphere, influencing children's interactions and relationships. It has the power to mold friendships and alliances based on stereotypes rather than genuine connections, thereby impacting the formation of authentic social bonds. Recognizing and addressing these effects is essential for creating an environment that nurtures the holistic development of every child.

Unconscious bias can also significantly influence our parenting dynamic, particularly through the modeling of behavior. Children observe and learn from us as parents, absorbing implicit biases displayed in everyday actions. These biases have the potential to shape a child's worldview, perpetuating stereotypes and influencing their attitudes toward diversity. In addition, bias plays a subtle yet impactful role in parental decision-making, subtly shaping choices related to school selection, extracurricular activities, and even playdates. These decisions, made unconsciously, can inadvertently limit a child's exposure to diverse perspectives, reinforcing existing biases within the family unit. When as parents we take the time to recognize and address these influences, we care environments that embrace diversity and nature open-mindedness.

Here are 7 tips to Navigate the Impact on Unconscious Bias:

1. Expand Your Definition of Diversity: Recognize that unconscious bias goes beyond race. Embrace diversity in all its forms – from gender and socioeconomic status to abilities and beyond. Acknowledging this broad spectrum is the first step toward dismantling biases.
2. Promote Inclusive Conversations: Encourage open discussions at home about various aspects of diversity. Addressing unconscious bias requires ongoing dialogue that encompasses a wide range of identities, experiences, and perspectives.
3. Diversify Your Media Consumption: Be intentional about exposing your family to diverse voices through books, movies, and online content. This will broaden your children's perspectives and challenge stereotypes embedded in mainstream media.
4. Challenge Stereotypes Head-On: Actively confront stereotypes when you encounter them. Teach your children to question assumptions and challenge preconceived notions, fostering critical thinking skills that combat unconscious bias.
5. Lead by Example: Model unbiased behavior in your daily life. Demonstrate respect, kindness, and inclusivity in your interactions with others, showing your children the values of embracing diversity.
6. Question Decision-Making Patterns: Reflect on your own decision-making processes, whether related to school choices, extracurricular activities, or social engagements. Ensure that your choices promote diversity and inclusivity, breaking the cycle of unconscious bias.
7. Stay Curious and Learn Together: Cultivate a mindset of continuous learning within your family. Explore new cultures, traditions, and perspectives together, fostering a shared understanding and appreciation for diversity.

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Earlier this week, we delved into the world of children's learning spaces and the profound effects of clutter on their academic success. Today, let's shift our focus to the adults in the room – literally! The impact of clutter doesn't end with childhood; it extends into our lives as grown-ups, affecting our mental clarity and overall well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore the surprising ways clutter can influence the adult mind, and I'll share some practical tips on decluttering and maintaining an organized space for enhanced mental peace.

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The Mental Toll of Clutter

Clutter isn't just a physical eyesore; it takes a toll on our mental well-being. The chaos that surrounds us can contribute to stress, anxiety, and a feeling of overwhelm. As adults juggle work, family, and personal responsibilities, a cluttered space becomes a constant source of distraction, hindering our ability to focus and think clearly.

Organized Spaces, Clear Minds

On the flip side, an organized space can be a game-changer for mental clarity. When our surroundings are neat and tidy, our minds are free to concentrate on the task at hand. Creating an organized environment fosters a sense of control and calm, contributing to increased productivity and a more positive mindset.

Practical Tips for Decluttering
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1. Start Small: Tackling clutter can be overwhelming, so start with one area at a time. Whether it's a desk, a closet, or a room, small victories will build momentum.
2. Declutter Regularly: Make decluttering a regular habit. Set aside time each week to review your space and eliminate items you no longer need. This prevents the buildup of unnecessary possessions.
3. One In, One Out Rule: Adopt the one in, one out rule. For every new item you bring into your space, consider letting go of something else. This helps maintain balance and prevents future clutter.
4. Create Designated Spaces: Assign specific areas for different activities, and ensure everything has its place. This makes it easier to find items and encourages tidiness.
5. Digital Declutter: Don't forget about your digital space. Organize your computer files, delete unnecessary emails, and streamline your digital life for a clutter-free virtual environment.

Maintaining an Organized Space

1. Daily Maintenance: Spend a few minutes each day tidying up. This prevents clutter from accumulating and ensures that your space remains organized.
2. Storage Solutions: Invest in storage solutions that suit your needs. From shelves and bins to drawer organizers, find tools that help keep your belongings in order.
3. Prioritize Mindful Consumption: Be mindful of what you bring into your space. Before purchasing new items, consider whether they add value and align with your lifestyle.

As we witnessed the impact of clutter on children earlier this week, let's not forget the influence it has on our adult lives. By embracing organization and decluttering, we pave the way for mental clarity, reduced stress, and a more focused approach to life's challenges. Take the first step towards a clearer mind today, and watch as the benefits ripple through every aspect of your adult life. ​

Last week I had the pleasure of sitting down with Maya Saunders, the host of Let's Move TCI Health Talks. Health and Fitness is not an area I coach in, but it's certainly an area that I know the importance of. I was more than happy to have a chat with her about balance.

The mission of Let's Move TCI is to increase Turks and Caicos Islands residents' engagement in sport and physical activity and to promote holistic healthy living alongside proper nutrition. The program pillars are as follows:

• Health-Promoting - health through physical movement.
  
• Wellness- Encouraging wellness through healthy eating and lifestyle changes.
  
• Balance-Providing balance through group and individual support.

To find out more about Let's Move TCI, visit their website: ​Let's Move Turks and Caicos (letsmovetci.com)

As an educator and a mom, I have always been fascinated by the intricate relationship between a child's learning environment and their academic success. Over the years, I have come to appreciate the significance of a well-structured space in fostering a positive and conducive learning atmosphere. One factor that often goes underestimated is the impact of clutter on a child's ability to learn.

In this blog post, I will delve into the challenges clutter poses to the learning environment, emphasize the importance of organizational skills, and discuss how having everything in its place can profoundly influence a child's success – a truth that extends beyond special needs children to encompass all young learners.

The Clutter Conundrum

Picture a classroom or a home filled with disorganized desks, scattered toys, and miscellaneous items strewn across the floor. It might seem like a trivial concern, but the truth is, clutter can create an overwhelming and distracting environment for children. As an educator, I have witnessed firsthand the impact that a cluttered space can have on a child's ability to focus, retain information, and engage in productive learning.

Organizational Skills: A Foundation for Success

One of the keys to overcoming the challenges clutter presents is the cultivation of organizational skills. Just as adults benefit from a well-organized workspace, children thrive in environments where everything has its place. Teaching children to organize their belongings not only promotes a sense of responsibility but also enhances their cognitive abilities. Organizational skills empower children to manage their time effectively, locate resources independently, and develop a structured approach to tasks.

Beyond Special Needs: A Universal Necessity

While it is true that children with special needs may face additional challenges in navigating cluttered environments, the importance of organization transcends any specific learning profile. All children, regardless of their individual needs, benefit from a structured and organized learning space. By instilling good organizational habits early on, we equip children with the tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.

The Impact of a Well-Structured Environment

A well-structured environment goes beyond the physical arrangement of objects; it extends to the overall atmosphere of the learning space. Children thrive in environments that provide clear expectations, routines, and a sense of order. When everything has its place, children can focus more effectively on learning, fostering a positive attitude towards education and enhancing their overall academic experience.

Practical Tips for Creating an Organized Learning Environment

1. Designated Spaces: Allocate specific areas for different activities, such as a study corner, play area, and storage spaces for books and toys.
2. Consistent Routines: Establish daily routines that include time for learning, play, and organization. Consistency helps children develop a sense of structure and predictability.
3. Clear Expectations: Communicate clear expectations regarding cleanliness and organization. Encourage children to take responsibility for their belongings and tidy up after themselves.
4. Visual Aids: Utilize visual aids, such as labels and color-coding, to help children identify where items belong. This not only makes organization easier but also enhances visual learning.
5. Involve Children in Organization: Empower children by involving them in the organization process. Allow them to participate in creating organizational systems, making them more invested in maintaining order.

As both a mom and an educator, I am continually reminded of the profound impact that a clutter-free, well-organized environment can have on a child's learning journey. The benefits extend far beyond the immediate academic realm, influencing a child's overall development and shaping their lifelong habits. By prioritizing organizational skills and emphasizing the importance of everything having its place, we set the stage for success by laying important and essential groundwork. 

Ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos around you? Clutter isn't just a physical hurdle; it's a mental maze that can cloud focus and hinder clarity. 🧠✨ Join me this week as we explore why decluttering spaces can have a transformative power on the mind.

Did you know that decluttering can:

• Enhance Mental Clarity and Focus
• Promote Productivity and Efficiency
• Create a Calming and Stress-Reducing Atmosphere