At AGC Automotive Europe, our vision for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is to ensure our company truly reflects the diversity of society by hiring, developing, rewarding and promoting people, in an equitable and inclusive way. Since 2022, local DEI committees have been the source of unique initiatives. We met with Norbert Nowe, Export Key Account Manager for our Automotive Replacement Glass division, where he has been actively involved in projects from the Koszalin plant in Poland.
Norbert, what motivated you to join the Polish DEI committee?
I’ve always been deeply sensitive to social inequalities, and I truly believe that everyone deserves the exact same opportunities, regardless of gender, age, religion, race, background, or disability. Joining a committee that works toward this goal was just a natural step for me.
What is this “Let’s Meet Each Other” project about?
Launched in November 2023, this initiative aims to break barriers and foster genuine connections. Our team brings together 15 different nationalities—people from Belarus, Georgia, Indonesia, Nepal, the Philippines, Colombia, and Ukraine. Just imagine the vibrant mix of cultures, traditions, and life stories! Our goal is to make their transition smoother by building an environment where they truly feel welcomed, respected, and authentically included. Through heartfelt interviews conducted by my colleague in Human Resources Joanna Kartuszyńska-Nawrocka and myself, we invite them to share their personal stories, what brought them to Poland, and their cultural backgrounds. 'Let’s meet each other' is all about building connections, fostering a real sense of belonging, strengthening inclusion, and creating genuine human bonds.
These initiatives have certainly shaped some great stories and wonderful memories. Can you share one that particularly stood out to you?
Every single meeting is full of emotion. I'll never forget three young women from the Philippines who came to mind. They crossed half the globe to start working in Poland, all for one profound reason: to secure a better future and better education for the children they had to leave behind. When you look past their daily jobs, you realize what it took to get here—heartbreaking family separation, huge personal sacrifices, and pure, raw courage. I've also met people who came to Poland and found love here, as well as others who had to flee the war. Each conversation reminds me why 'Let’s Meet Each Other' matters so much. Behind every employee, there’s a real person with their own unique story—filled with love, sacrifice, courage, and sometimes, survival.
What other integration initiatives will you be rolling out soon?
'Let's Meet Each Other' is just one of many DEI initiatives we’re driving in Koszalin. We’re talking openly about mental health and belonging during Safety Day, and celebrating Pride, while also staying connected with our seniors and retirees. And we’re just getting started: our major upcoming project for 2027 is Access@AGC. It's all about breaking barriers and figuring out how we can make AGC an even more welcoming and attractive workplace for people with disabilities.
A final word to conclude?
With such initiatives, we’re building a workplace where everyone feels seen, valued, and connected. And that is the kind of organization I’m proud to be part of.