Overview:
- Inclusion is transforming power structures, not just counting heads.
- Token representation falls short when real authority is missing.
- Empowering voices and trusted leadership redefines true inclusion.
- Genuine inclusion thrives on respect, access, and shared decision-making
Inclusion is a popular term today. It resonates in company value statements, mission goals in schools, and political speeches. It has become an overused word worldwide. Companies announce diversity milestones, and leaders proudly point to the women and minorities they have “included” at decision-making tables. But somewhere along the way, we’ve confused being present with being powerful. We have forgotten that inclusion is not about making a headline or fulfilling a quota—it’s about building systems that don’t just allow people in, but allow them to thrive.
Real, lasting change takes place when people are trusted, heard, and empowered to lead. True inclusion is about what happens behind closed doors, and who gets to shape the conversation. It is therefore an ongoing commitment to building systems where everyone belongs, thrives, and leads.
The Illusion of Representation
Many institutions love numbers. They announce how many women sit on their boards or how many people of color have joined their leadership teams as part of their achievements. Those figures don’t always translate to power.
Surface-Level Diversity
Representation can be shallow. An organization can easily hire five new women, but fail when it comes to giving them real decision-making authority. In many African parliaments, for example, women may hold 30% of the seats, but there are not many sitting at the helm and steering the ship.
Tokenism and Symbolism
Tokenism happens when one person from a marginalized group is showcased as proof of progress but their ideas are sidelined. It’s like inviting someone to dinner but never offering them the menu. A single seat becomes more symbolic than substantial.
This is common on boards or executive teams. One woman or one minority voice is celebrated but left without real support or authority. In the tech space, especially across West Africa, women are often visible in branding campaigns but invisible in technical decision-making. According to a 2023 report by the African Union Commission, women occupy only 16% of leadership roles in African ICT firms. The result is clear: presence without power, visibility without voice.
