Case Study 5: Inclusive Language (Tribes and Backgrounds) Scenario : Abena recently got a Job in Accra and had to relocate from the Techiman where she lived her entire life to Accra. She joined a team where most people speak Ga during lunch breaks and informal chats. Although the team is not intentionally excluding her, Abena finds it hard to join conversations and feels isolated. She begins eating alone and doesn’t contribute much in team meetings. Discussion Questions: • Why did Abena feel excluded even though no one was intentionally being unkind? • What small action can help to make her feel more included? • How can teams be more mindful of inclusion in everyday interactions? • How can language choices in informal settings unintentionally exclude team members from different backgrounds? • What impact does feeling isolated at work have on an employee’s engagement, confidence and performance? • What responsibility do teams have to ensure that everyone feels included, especially when new members join? • How might the team’s culture shift if they made a conscious effort to use a common language during group activities? • What steps could managers or team leads take to identify and address subtle forms of exclusion? • How can organizations support employees who are relocating and adjusting to new cultural or social environments? • What role do informal interactions play in building team cohesion and trust? • How might Abena’s experience affect her long-term commitment to the team or organization? • What can other team members do to help new colleagues feel more welcome and involved? • How can feedback from individuals like Abena be encouraged and acted upon to improve inclusivity?