The power of diversity in creativity

One of my roles at the moment is Course Leader for the Cannes Lions Creative MBA. It’s my second time doing it, and I love it. I’ve been reflecting on why it gives me such a buzz. There are a few reasons:

• The cohort is made up of a truly diverse group of individuals from around the world, 24 countries in total. We’re encouraging people to share traditions, sayings and stories from their home cultures, so that we can understand how others make meaning and what’s important to them. Not only am I learning loads but it’s also given me the travel bug!

• Our learners are so engaged and care so much about what they do - you can feel the positive energy radiate from them. In a world that’s filled with uncertainty and division, it gives me a much needed lift and a different perspective when world news feels like it’s weighing me down.

• It’s reconnected with the power of creativity, what happens when we bring diverse minds together and the impact it can have on the world.

• The team I’m working with is genuinely brilliant. It’s a mix of Cannes Lions folks, two facilitators that we interview for each cohort, and then regular live speakers who each bring their own experience and perspective to the course content.

I genuinely believe it’s made me a better leader, facilitator and creative problem-solver - all brought about by this diverse group, both learners and team members. I’m working hard to understand the needs of others so I can help them thrive.

I’d highly recommend the Creative MBA to anyone who’s stuck in a rut, in need of some inspiration, and wants to meet some truly wonderful people from around the world to do some great work.