Cultural Integration and Career Pathways: Diversity, Inclusion, and the Global Experience of African Gen Z Graduates in MNCs

Abstract

The globalized workforce has led to an increasing number of young workers from diverse cultural backgrounds working for multinational corporations (MNCs). Many African Gen Z graduates are joining global corporate environments, bringing in fresh viewpoints, technological know-how, and entrepreneurial skills. However, their experiences are not utilized particularly with regards to diversity and inclusion (D&I) leaving many African employees to contend with barriers to networking, cultural adjustment, and limited access to leadership roles. The goal of the chapter is to provide a comprehensive, critical analysis of diversity and inclusion programs by multinational corporations and its impact on African Gen Z graduates, depriving the ability to thrive in global corporation. The chapter concludes by reinforcing the urgent need for systemic change in corporate diversity and inclusion efforts with findings form the basis for further conversations, especially when it comes to examining the lived experiences of African Gen Z graduates, the efficacy of corporate D&I policies.