What Inclusion Really Feels Like at Work

Inclusion is often discussed in terms of strategies, policies, and statements. But lived experience tells a more complex story. In this blog, Mikko, who is currently completing his internship at Familia, reflects on what inclusion means beyond formal commitments, and how it shows up in everyday working life. 

Based on personal experiences across different workplaces, he highlights privilege, invisible barriers, and the small but meaningful ways colleagues shape whether someone feels supported or excluded. His reflection highlights a simple but powerful truth that sits at the core of Familia’s work: real inclusion is created by people, not just by policies.

Inclusion is a theme that is being increasingly emphasized in workplaces, but it is not always implemented properly. Saying your workplace is inclusive is not enough. It needs to be always reflected in the conscious and active designing of policies and culture that is necessary to allow people to feel safe and supported regardless of the background, knowledge and abilities. A truly inclusive workplace is not available to many of us in the current economic situation. We are often lucky to find any employment at all.

​As a white, well-educated male with a Finnish name I have a lot of privilege that allows me to be included in many spaces. I obviously have no personal experience or deep understanding of the challenges that many other people face. However, I am also a non-native Finnish speaker and I have a so-called “invisible” physical disability that affects my work. These often make inclusion more difficult for me. I often have to justify myself when I am unable to communicate fluently in Finnish or when I need assistance to do easy task that my hands cannot manage. I do not have it more difficult than many people, far from it, but I am accustomed to being dismissed, condescended to or set aside because it is more convenient for others.

​I do not mean to complain because I have had many extremely positive workplace experiences with supportive and understanding colleagues, but there has always been some people who are uncomfortable with my differences. Workplaces with clearly defined policies to foster inclusion are great, but it is the people who actually make a difference. I have had many different workplaces in many different fields and countries. I have often had considerate and friendly colleagues but they have always been balanced by those who are less than supportive.

​At Familia, I have been treated with genuine respect and kindness by the whole staff and I feel valued for who I am. I have not had to face judgment or feel the need to conceal my physical challenges. I have spent over five months here and this is the first time I have felt truly able to be myself, and to be valued for it. This is because of the people. I feel that my abilities and limitations are accepted and I belong to the team even though I have a short contract. Familia is not the only workplace that is inclusive and welcoming, but it is the first time I have truly belonged and been supported. 

​People make the difference, and I believe that it does not take much effort to be an inclusive person who accepts and values others for whom they are. I think we should all strive to be this way. If we model the behavior others will follow.  

Written by: mikko erpestad