top of page

Multicultural Centers and Sustainability: Insights from the BCC Conference

Writer's picture: Centrum BrusinkaCentrum Brusinka

Updated: Feb 3

On January 21, 2025, the BCC Sustainability Working Group hosted an important event in Prague, bringing together key stakeholders from diverse sectors to discuss the urgent challenges of sustainability within the European context. Organized by the British Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with its partners, the event focused on shaping a comprehensive agenda for sustainable practices across industries, emphasizing both environmental responsibility and inclusivity. The BCC conference in Prague highlighted that the path to a sustainable future requires cooperation across sectors and communities.

During the conference, Viktoria Netíková, CEO of the Multicultural Center, contributed valuable insights on how multiculturalism, diversity and education can drive sustainable change within local communities. This provided an opportunity for us to highlight the intersection between cultural inclusion and social sustainability – principles that form the foundation of our work at the center.


Key Takeaways from the Event

The conference provided a dynamic platform for sharing innovative ideas on sustainability trends, including challenges from record-breaking temperatures, geopolitics, competitiveness, regulations and finance. It also highlighted the importance of engaging marginalized communities, especially migrants and refugees, who bring unique perspectives and sustainable practices aligned with environmental goals. As a multicultural center and non-profit organization, we believe it is essential to include these communities in shaping a greener and more inclusive future for Europe and beyond.


The Role of Non-Profits in Sustainability

Non-profits play a important role in promoting sustainability throug their programs and workshops on better communication with governments, educational institutions, media and the public. They bridge the gap between communities and policymakers, ensuring that all the voices are heard and incorporated into sustainable strategies without discrimination. By organizing events, campaigns and educational programs, non-profits foster awareness, advocate for green policies and empower local communities to take action. Their efforts help build a more sustainable and inclusive society by tackling environmental, social, and economic challenges in a collaborative way. By fostering cultural inclusion, educating about sustainability, and providing opportunities for marginalized groups, we contribute to a greener and more inclusive society.


The Role of Multicultural Centers in Sustainability

At our Multicultural Center, the meaning of sustainability is not just related to environmental issues, but mainly to societal challenges that intersect with cultural inclusion and social justice.


Here are some of our thoughts on how multicultural centers can contribute to this global conversation, creating a kind of ecosystem around:


  • Educational programs for sustainable living

    Multicultural centers can play a vital role in educating communities about sustainable living, waste management, and energy efficiency. These topics resonate across cultures, and by offering educational workshops, we can promote greener lifestyles that benefit all community members.

  • Cultural perspectives on sustainability

    Many migrants and minority groups bring with them rich cultural practices that align closely with sustainable principles. For instance, traditional methods of food preservation, waste reduction, and repurposing goods are integral to sustainability. Multicultural centers help integrate these practices into broader local sustainability strategies, fostering cross-cultural learning.

  • Youth engagement and empowerment

    Through initiatives like Erasmus+ and Creative Europe programs, our center works with young people, empowering them to become sustainability advocates. By involving youth in sustainability projects, we ensure the next generation is prepared to lead the way in creating eco-friendly, inclusive communities.

  • Supporting migrants in green job creation

    One of the key challenges is ensuring that migrants, especially refugees, have access to sustainable job opportunities. Through the educational and support programs, we can help connect migrant communities to job markets, providing training on sustainable employment and eco-friendly industries such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and waste management.


At our Multicultural Center, we aim to continue supporting initiatives that bring together diverse cultural perspectives, engage youth in sustainability projects and ensure that all communities, including migrants, are part of the solution. We believe that true sustainability can only be achieved when everyone – regardless of their background – has the opportunity to contribute to building a sustainable and just world.


Through events like the BCC Sustainability Working Group conference, we are encouraged to push the boundaries of how we define sustainability, ensuring it is a vision that includes and empowers everyone. This collaborative spirit is essential for shaping a more sustainable future for both the Czech Republic and the wider European community.

6 views0 comments

コメント


Konečného náměstí 2а, 602 00 Brno-střed © Centrum Brusinka, z.s. 2020-2025

bottom of page