It is August 9th and the streets are decorated everywhere red and white with flowers and flags. Later in the day, we will see a variety of music and dance performances from a wide variety of cultures and a spectacular fireworks display in the evening.
Where did we, my wife and I, find ourselfes?
1️⃣ We are unplanned and coincidental on National Day in Singapore. On this day, everyone celebrates together in this melting pot of cultures, namely Singapore’s independence from Malaysia since 1965. And up in the blue sky, the military helicopter with the national flag makes its rounds.
2️⃣ Another example – We felt the same way when entering Saudi Arabia. Due to my new executive role at the time at a joint venture based in Al-Jubail, we had chosen September 23 as the start date. We were surprised and happy about the warm welcome at the airport with green and white balloons, where we had expected a rather impersonal treatment.
It was the national holiday in Saudi Arabia. It marks the founding of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932 by King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud. Good and festive-happy atmosphere everywhere, even at the airport in Dammam.
3️⃣ And one last example – I’ve already tried it and enjoyed it very much, the moon cake from Shanghai. And so beautifully packaged. The Moon Festival is calculated according to the Chinese lunar calendar and usually falls in September or October.
In China, it’s a time when families come together, eat moon cakes, and admire the full moon. It is a festival with many traditional customs and symbolizes reunion and harmony. And by the way, it is not far away from the National Holiday week around October 1 to the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949.
I found it particularly valuable to experience the holidays on site myself. At that moment, you are immersed in the culture. A sense of belonging is created.
Knowing about the holidays in the respective cultures shows respect and appreciation for the traditions and customs and promotes an inclusive and appreciative work environment when leading a global team.
➡️ How about setting the dates on your next trip 😊around the world so that you are always in the country you are visiting on a holiday. I think that would be associated with a great learning effect. What do you think?
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My name is Bernd Scharbert and I support and advise when it comes to intercultural leadership, diversity and sustainable work in general. If you are interestedfeel free to contact me directly.
