Why Young People Need Diverse Networks for an Equitable and Less Polarised World

In today’s fast-changing and interconnected world, young people are uniquely positioned to shape the future. But to do so effectively, they need to cultivate one of the most valuable assets they can have: a diverse network. Whether it’s forming friendships with classmates from different cultures, volunteering with community groups, or connecting with mentors from varying professional and personal backgrounds, building a broad network is crucial for navigating life’s challenges and opportunities.

Diverse networks aren’t just about building career opportunities or padding your CV. For young people, they’re a gateway to developing empathy, cultural intelligence, and creative problem-solving skills. When you’re exposed to a variety of perspectives early in life, you learn how to challenge assumptions, find common ground, and tackle issues in innovative ways — skills that are essential not only in the workplace but also in creating a fairer, more inclusive society.

The Power of Diverse Networks: Backed by Research

Humanity’s ability to thrive has always been rooted in cooperation — especially with those who bring fresh perspectives and skills to the table. Anthropology and social sciences reveal how diverse connections have been essential throughout history:

1. Evolutionary Anthropology: Early human societies prospered because they collaborated across different skill sets and resources. Anthropologist Robin Dunbar’s research shows that the most successful human groups balanced close-knit social ties with broader, diverse connections, enabling them to innovate and adapt.
2. Cultural Exchange: Franz Boas, known as the father of modern anthropology, demonstrated that cultural progress is driven by the exchange of ideas between groups. When people from different backgrounds share knowledge and perspectives, everyone grows, sparking creativity and understanding far beyond simple trade.
3. Reciprocity: Marcel Mauss’s concept of “reciprocal exchange” highlights how giving and receiving build trust and strengthen bonds across communities. This foundational human behavior demonstrates that cooperation flourishes when relationships are diverse and mutually beneficial.

The importance of diverse networks is further reinforced by psychology and sociology:

1. Social Learning Theory: Psychologist Albert Bandura’s research shows that we learn not just through personal experience but also by observing and interacting with others. Engaging with people from different backgrounds broadens our thinking, challenging assumptions and encouraging growth.
2. Contact Theory: Gordon Allport’s pioneering work demonstrates that meaningful interactions between people of different groups can reduce prejudice and foster empathy. Positive cross-cultural experiences help us see each other as individuals rather than stereotypes.
3. Cognitive Diversity: Research by Harrison and Klein reveals that teams with diverse approaches to problem-solving are more innovative and effective. Similarly, in personal networks, exposure to varied perspectives enhances creativity and equips us to address challenges in dynamic and inclusive ways.

Real Life Stories of Diverse Networks in Action

Take Project AIM at St. John’s University, which supports international students adjusting to life in the U.S. through peer mentoring. By pairing first-year students with second-year mentors who have faced similar challenges, the program creates a space where students from different cultural backgrounds can share their experiences and build mutual understanding. For many, these mentoring relationships help bridge cultural gaps and form lasting networks that enhance both personal and academic growth.

But the formation of diverse networks isn’t limited to formal programs. Young people also build these connections through community engagement and workplace opportunities, two key spaces for personal and professional development.

In the community, young people interact with people from different backgrounds through volunteering, local events, and youth organizations. Research published in the Journal of Youth and Adolescence emphasises that community-based programs are critical for developing social capital — resources and support gained through relationships. Such networks foster inclusivity and broaden perspectives, teaching young people how to collaborate and connect across differences, skills essential for thriving in a globalised world.

At work, internships and early career experiences frequently expose young people to diverse teams, helping them navigate and celebrate cultural, racial, and socioeconomic differences. For instance, Google’s internship programs unite young talent from around the globe, enabling them to collaborate on projects, exchange perspectives, and build professional networks that last well beyond their internships. Diverse workplaces also drive innovation: research from McKinsey & Company consistently shows that teams with varied perspectives and experiences outperform homogenous ones, as they approach challenges from a broader range of viewpoints.

Whether in classrooms, communities, or workplaces, these experiences offer young people the chance to practice empathy, reduce biases, and cultivate understanding — skills that are indispensable in today’s interconnected world.

My Journey of Connection

Growing up in China, I was immersed in a rich tapestry of cultures, languages and dialects, as well as traditions. Moving between regions as a child meant constantly adapting —whether it was switching between languages and dialects, or learning local customs to connect with those around me. These experiences helped me see the world through many different lenses and shaped my ability to bridge cultural gaps, a skill that has become the cornerstone of my personal and professional life.

When I moved abroad, I found that these early experiences made it easier for me to connect with people from all over the globe. I could relate to different cultural contexts and build strong, meaningful relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds. These connections have enriched my life, opening up new opportunities and friendships that I wouldn’t have had otherwise. Today, I’m grateful for these diverse networks and use what I’ve learned to help leaders and teams collaborate more effectively across cultural boundaries.

Beyond Youth: How to Build Your Own Diverse Network

While this article highlights the importance of diverse networks for young people, the truth is that the benefits are for everyone. Learning about new perspectives, cultures, and ways of thinking keeps us all young at heart. So, how can we intentionally build our own diverse network? Here are some practical steps to get started:

1. Seek Out New Experiences: Step outside your comfort zone by joining groups, attending events, or participating in activities that connect you with people from different backgrounds.
2. Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Move beyond surface-level chats. Ask thoughtful questions, listen deeply, and seek to understand perspectives that differ from your own.
3. Leverage Technology: Platforms like LinkedIn and Meetup make it easier than ever to connect with people from around the world who can broaden your personal or professional horizons.
4. Curate Your Social Media: Follow diverse voices — those who challenge your worldview and offer new insights. Use social media as a tool for learning and connection, not just consumption.
5. Travel and Explore: Whenever possible, immerse yourself in other cultures. Firsthand experiences are invaluable for understanding how people from different backgrounds live, work, and think.

A Call to Action

Whether you’re starting out in life or simply young at heart, connecting with people from different backgrounds brings opportunities for personal growth, collaboration, and making a positive impact. In the words of Nikki Kaye, who inspired this piece, it’s about creating a equitable, less polarised world — one relationship at a time.