The “ZUKUNFT braucht VIELFALT” Award has been presented for the third time—this year as part of the “Seh-Fest” open-air cinema event. The award recognized companies that go above and beyond to foster collaboration among their diverse workforces. In keeping with the theme, the film “Verflucht normal” was screened that evening—a moving yet humorous story about overcoming prejudice, acceptance, and living diversity. The film and the award-winning companies make it clear: Diversity becomes a strength when people treat one another with openness and respect.
This year, the awards—each worth 5,000 euros—were presented in three categories:
© Franz FenderLöwen Apotheke Hannover (77 employees) stands out as a pioneer in putting diversity into practice in everyday work life. Through flexible work schedules, remote work options, and individualized time off, the team’s diverse needs are actively supported. The jury was particularly impressed by the professional counseling provided to customers in 17 languages, the integration of international professionals through the “Pharmacists/PTA Under Supervision” program, and an internal representation model featuring elected representatives. In addition, the pharmacy specifically promotes the professional advancement of women.
© Franz FenderFAIR Facility Management GmbH & Co. KG (100 employees) from Isernhagen demonstrates how diversity of perspectives serves as the foundation for collaboration and trust. In an environment with multicultural teams, diverse language and educational backgrounds, and decentralized work locations, the company relies on clear procedures for addressing discrimination and conflicts, the involvement of external expert agencies, and a consistent integration of diversity, protection, and participation. This enables the company to successfully lead heterogeneous teams and foster shared development.
© Franz FenderFor nearly 20 years, fairKAUF eG (128 employees) has combined social retail with democracy in action. As a cooperative, it implements the “one member, one vote” principle and creates opportunities for participation for people facing particular challenges, such as the long-term unemployed, single parents, or people with a migration background. Through training, individualized support, and active involvement in decision-making processes, employees experience a sense of effectiveness and co-determination. Particularly impressive: political education programs and regular trips to Berlin that include visits to the Bundestag.
Our society is diverse—and so are the workforces in our companies. In light of demographic change, securing a skilled workforce, integrating diverse groups, and consciously managing diversity are of central importance. Different perspectives are a great asset, as they strengthen companies’ innovation and competitiveness. The “ZUKUNFT braucht VIELFALT” initiative, run by the Region Hannover’s Economic and Employment Development Agency, provides impetus to highlight diversity as a key economic and locational factor, informs companies about existing support programs, and develops new formats as needed.
All information about the initiative is available here.
Photos of the award ceremony can be accessed via the following link: https://region.hannit-share.de/s/PntZqsRKMxWXQXy. Photo credit: Franz Fender