[applause] Let me ask you a question. How many places have you lived in? Cities, countries, continents, anywhere. So far, I have moved 12 times and lived in a total of nine different cities. Nashville and Arlington in the US, Sudat Huarez in Mexico, London in the UK, Ekkatarinberg, St. Petersburg and Moscow in Russia, Astana and Kazakhstan, and Beijing, China. That's the average number of moves most people experience in their entire lifetime, much less in the first 14 years. Although my parents are CubanAme ...

Core Argument - The speech highlights the value of "Third Culture Kids" (TCKs) and individuals who grow up between cultures, emphasizing their unique ability to bridge divides and lead with empathy [2][5][6] - It suggests that TCKs possess valuable skills in navigating diverse environments, understanding different perspectives, and fostering inclusion [7][8] - The speech advocates for a shift in leadership perception, valuing listening, bridging, and belonging over simply having all the answers [7][10] Key Characteristics of TCKs - TCKs adapt easily, often speaking multiple languages and blending cultural practices [2] - They develop a strong sense of empathy and the ability to notice and connect with those who may feel unseen or excluded [6] - TCKs are adept at navigating different cultural contexts and finding common ground in unexpected places [7] Implications for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) - The speech connects the experiences of TCKs to DEI principles, emphasizing that diversity is about perspective, equity ensures no one is left behind, and inclusion creates a sense of belonging for everyone [8] - It suggests that TCKs can contribute significantly to creating more inclusive environments by leveraging their cross-cultural understanding and empathy [8] Call to Action - The speech encourages TCKs and those who grew up "in between" to embrace their unique strengths and perspectives [9][10] - It envisions a future where leadership is characterized by listening, bridging, and fostering belonging, with TCKs playing a crucial role in driving positive change [10]