(MENAFN- Gulf Times) Over 130 affiliates of Total worldwide joined in the biennial diversity week celebrations, which brought together employees, contractors and partners to "strengthen their unity".
Total in Qatar supported the initiative by organising a week of educational and cultural events for its workforce, drawn from 42 nationalities, showcasing how "diversity makes them better", according to a statement.
"The positive energy mobilised when different nationalities come together is very inspiring, as it promotes respect and cultural awareness among everyone in the company, regardless of differences," said Guillaume Chalmin, managing director of Total E&P Qatar.
This "unity was clearly showcased" as employees gathered in daily 10-minute exercises, "10@10", which included experience-sharing sessions on culture, history and folklore. The company's canteen was also used as a medium to represent the different nationalities' cuisines, with a completely transformed ambience.
Many employees were also interviewed on their thoughts and ideas on how to work together and these suggestions were put forth in a "diversity newsletter" addressing common questions and misconceptions. Managers then shared diversity cards, which contain key milestones in distinct areas achieved by Total in addition to different quotes and sayings on how to be more unified.
"Working for Total, I feel like I work for the UN. We come from all over the world, but if feels like one big diverse family," said Al-Anoud al-Naimi, a Qatari employee at Total.
"It's amazing to see how, with a bit of understanding, compassion and empathy, people from different countries all come together at Total to create a beautiful mosaic," added Payal Gujadhur, a Mauritian employee.
In order to celebrate the women present in the company, Total partnered with Carolin Zeitler, an external motivational speaker, who inspired the audience with her views on women balancing their family and work life (dual careers).
She was joined in this session by two of Total's employees € Ann Arul, an engineer working in offshore Halul, and Magalie Lemaire, head of field operations interface management.
To conclude the week, employees and contractors gathered at Total Research Centre-Qatar for a grand celebration. The venue became a blend of vibrant colours with all the countries and regions represented by the employees.
Different departments worked together to present their vision of diversity through a painting. A final cultural show saw participants sharing cultural tips, dances, facts and videos.
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