Mizuho is excited to celebrate the UN’s World Day for Cultural Diversity and showcase the breadth of diversity that our colleagues from around the world bring – recognising and embracing our rich cultural heritage, faiths, and beliefs.
At Mizuho, this day is a meaningful reminder that diversity is not only something to be acknowledged, but something to be celebrated. It provides the perfect opportunity for us to recognize the value of different cultures and the role they play in promoting dialogue, mutual respect, and inclusion. In addition, it is a reminder of how diversity strengthens societies and workplaces.
We caught up with three of our Cultural Diversity Network and World Day for Cultural Diversity event organizers at Mizuho to share their thoughts on cultural diversity and their stories.
"I have English, Scottish & Dutch roots, and was born and raised in Africa. I have been lucky enough to have lived in a variety of very different places. This has afforded me a wealth of experiences that I am very grateful for and draw upon continuously. No one culture is the same as another, and to me this diversity provides endless ways to learn from each other and to explores perspectives that help to make us more rounded and insightful.
Mizuho doesn’t play lip service in embracing diversity, but actively promotes the concept through focussing on achieving the benefits of different backgrounds and perspectives in hiring and retaining practices. The fact that we have multiple active inclusion networks is evidence of Mizuho’s commitment to diversity, equity & inclusion."
Derek Paine
Regulatory Reporting
"For me, cultural diversity means embracing the richness of different perspectives, experiences, and traditions. It’s about learning from one another and building environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and respected. Mizuho fosters cultural diversity by promoting inclusive hiring practices, supporting employee resource groups, and creating platforms for cross-cultural collaboration. The company values diverse voices as a source of innovation and strength.
I come from a culture that values community, storytelling, and deep respect for elders. These values shape how I connect with people and approach teamwork, always looking to listen actively and uplift others."
Maame Gyesi-Appiah
Systems Development
"To me, cultural diversity means the opportunity to learn from others, broaden your perspective, and grow both personally and professionally. I’ve experienced a strong commitment to creating an inclusive and respectful work environment since joining Mizuho in 2018. In the past two years, I’ve had the pleasure of participating as an organiser for our Cultural Diversity Network events, and it’s been inspiring to help create a space and opportunity where colleagues can share their stories.
Having lived in five countries on three continents, I’ve seen how living and working with people from different cultures can enhance creativity, and deliver and build stronger, more empathetic teams. My home country, Hungary, has been shaped by a unique blend of traditions, languages, and influences from Roman to Slavic, Ottoman, Romani, Jewish, and Austro-Hungarian cultures. It has taught me the value of adaptability, respect and open-mindedness — qualities that have helped me navigate life in today’s interconnected world."