Businesswoman discusses importance of diversification

By Melisa Ceman/reporter

A Fort Worth businesswoman told an audience at the Diversity and Inclusion Council luncheon Oct. 17 on TR Campus to keep making diversity the goal.

“It is important that we remain diverse in our thoughts and actions and remain steadfast in what we do,” said keynote speaker Yolanda Harper, who was the luncheon’s keynote speaker.

Harper represented herself while providing examples of ways to help reduce negativity within the diverse community.

“For someone to be a part of the D&I Council, you have to do something that you’re passionate about and believe in it,” she said. “You wear that coat with pride.”

Harper presented a song by Dolly Parton called “Coat of Many Colors,” which she referred to throughout her presentation.

“Use the healing power of faith and love to overcome a tragedy,” Harper said before playing the song for the audience.

The audience was asked to think about four points to discuss after the song: pieces, perspective, persuasion and pride. She then explained each of the points after hearing feedback from the audience.

The speaker emphasized the piece of persuasion by explaining how important it is to never stop what people are doing.

“People are going to persuade you to think differently,” she said. “They’re going to question why you’re in the D&I Council, and you have to show them your pride.”

She emphasized self-care throughout the presentation because “we often forget about ourselves trying to focus on others.”

“Self-care is not selfish. It is necessary,” Harper said. “I don’t want you to forget about you.”

Copies of “The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results” were left for attendees to take. Harper told the audience this book changed her life.

She is also writing her own e-book about mastering self-care.

“Be open-minded to other people’s experiences and open to other types of people,” she said, adding that people often face a fear of the unknown. “We need to get out there and get over the prejudice.”