NIS recently hosted a transformative Community Conversation event for parents, students, faculty, and staff: Belonging in a Divided World. The morning featured esteemed DEI facilitators and equity-driven educators from the United States, Ms. Shelley Paul and Jacinta Williams. The gathering provided an invaluable platform for participants to engage in meaningful discussions centred on identity and belonging. Through the sharing of personal stories and experiences, our attendees fostered deeper connections, helping to contribute to a more inclusive school community.

A key highlight of the event was the role of NIS student translators and facilitators, who played an essential part in bridging perspectives and helping to ensure that the diverse voices of our community were heard and understood. As one parent reflected, "I enjoyed the conversations with the students immensely and learned so much from them.” Another parent shared, "The questions today were very thought-provoking, and I enjoyed it very much."

At NIS, the principles of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) are integral to our educational philosophy. We recognise that fostering an environment where each individual feels valued and understood enhances the overall learning experience. Events like the Community Conversation are essential in promoting culturally responsive learning and belonging, which not only broadens perspectives but also prepares students to thrive in a diverse world. Such initiatives align with our commitment to Bursting the Bubble through international-mindedness and global citizenship, empowering learners to become proactive contributors to a more just and inclusive society.

The overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents and students alike highlights the lasting impact of this event. One participant summed it up best: "Today's meeting provided meaningful conversations, and the benefits were endless." By facilitating open dialogues and creating safe spaces for expression, NIS continues to build a community that celebrates diversity and champions equity.