Inclusion and belonging are at the core of how we work together. Our Suzhou plant exemplifies this commitment. On November 13, the plant’s Inclusion & Belonging Committee hosted an event that brought employees together across cultures, with a special focus on ethnic and linguistic diversity.
The celebration began with a captivating fashion show, where employees proudly showcased traditional attire from various ethnic groups. From the intricate embroidery of the Zhuang people to the vibrant colors of the Miao minority, each outfit told a unique story of heritage and identity. This display not only highlighted the beauty of ethnic clothing but also deepened appreciation for the customs and traditions they represent.
Next, the spotlight turned to linguistic diversity through an engaging “copycat” game. Participants translated each colleague’s dialect into their own before passing it along, with the final person sharing what they heard in Mandarin. Laughter filled the room as employees attempted to replicate the distinctive sounds of dialects like Cantonese, Sichuanese, and Shanghainese. This activity underscored the richness and complexity of China’s linguistic landscape.
To keep the excitement going, the event featured two traditional games: Touhu, an ancient archery-inspired challenge where players toss arrows into a vase, and Pig Roundup, a lively contest where participants used fans to herd balloon pigs into a box. Both activities sparked enthusiastic participation and friendly competition.
Our company thrives on the strength of its diverse cultures and perspectives. This event in Suzhou beautifully demonstrated how inclusion and belonging shape the way we work as a great team, engage employees, and foster a workplace where every culture and ethnicity is valued. This is the Novanta Way.