A Culture of Welcome Begins with the Way We Welcome People
The Frankfurt Rhine-Main region thrives on internationality. People from all over the world come here to work, study, build businesses, or find a new home.
That is why I am especially pleased to be participating in the Newcomers Festival on 19 September, an event dedicated to welcoming new international residents to our region.
When I chose the title of my book, Prepare for Landing: Guiding Principles for Intercultural Leadership, I was initially thinking about leaders, teams, and organisations. But “landing” begins much earlier: with a first encounter, with listening, with genuine interest in another person, and with creating a feeling of being welcome.
For me, the invitation to the festival is a wonderful opportunity to introduce my book. At the same time, it is a reminder that intercultural leadership is no longer a niche topic. It has become an essential part of the economic and social reality of modern, internationally connected regions. The Frankfurt Rhine-Main area has demonstrated for many years how diversity can contribute to collaboration, innovation, and prosperity.
I am looking forward to being part of this inspiring event and am grateful for the invitation to the respective reception hosted by Frankfurt’s Mayor, Mike Josef.
Because successful integration begins with a culture of welcome.
What did it feel like for you when you arrived in a new city, a new country, or a new culture?
I am Bernd Scharbert, and I support leaders in navigating the challenges and opportunities of inclusive and intercultural leadership. My book, Prepare for Landing: Leitlinien für interkulturelle Führung, is available through Barbara Budrich Publishers and from booksellers across Germany. On 9 October, I will also be presenting it at the Frankfurt Book Fair from 12:00 to 13:00 in Hall 3.0 / A124.
