As a migrant from Pakistan who completed a Master's in Transport Engineering from Rome, my journey into the European workforce was filled with challenges and revelations. One key learning that stood out to me, both academically and professionally, is the transformative power of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) - especially in sectors like transport, which are meant to serve and represent all.

Despite the specialised education I gained in one of Europe's leading academic environments, entering the industry wasn't seamless. There was a noticeable gap - not just in opportunities, but in how inclusivity was translated from policy papers to practical workplace integration. I came to realise that technical competence alone is not always enough; what's needed is an industry culture that values different voices, lived experiences, and unconventional ideas.

Transport is not just about moving people and goods - it's about connecting lives, supporting economic mobility, and ensuring accessibility for all. A transport system designed and operated by a diverse group of people is more likely to meet the needs of diverse users. For example, urban planners and engineers from different backgrounds may approach accessibility and safety differently. Someone from a migrant background might more quickly notice that signs in only one language, or apps that don't support multicultural interfaces, unintentionally exclude many users. When those voices are included at the design table, the result is better: safer, smarter, and more inclusive transport systems.

Today, technology provides powerful tools to advance DEI goals - but only when used intentionally. AI, data analytics, and intelligent transport systems can be leveraged to identify gaps in service equity, such as which neighbourhoods lack access to affordable transit, or which demographic groups are underserved. Platforms that use human-centered design, fed by feedback from a diverse user base, can build more equitable systems. Real-time crowding data in public transport can help reduce risks for women or older persons who avoid overcrowded spaces. Multi-language transport apps can serve both native and non-native users better, encouraging usage and engagement. Bias-aware AI tools can help HR teams in transport companies reduce unconscious bias in recruitment. Technology, therefore, becomes not just a tool, but a catalyst for systemic change - if those leading its development reflect the diversity of those it aims to serve.

According to Eurostat, in 2023 the employment rate for non-EU citizens aged 20-64 in Europe was 63%, compared to 76.2% for EU nationals. The unemployment rate for non-EU citizens stood at 12.2%, more than double that of EU nationals at 5.4%. These figures underscore the structural barriers that migrants face in accessing fair employment - even in high-demand sectors like transport and logistics. This underutilisation is a lost opportunity. Non-native professionals bring valuable perspectives, especially in a continent as interconnected and multicultural as Europe.

Migrants like me are not just job seekers - we are problem-solvers, system thinkers, and bridge-builders between communities and policies.

The benefits of diversity go far beyond better decision-making. Inclusive workplaces create a culture of encouragement and innovation. When non-natives see themselves represented in leadership, engineering teams, or service design, they are more likely to contribute confidently. Companies with inclusive cultures also enjoy lower employee turnover, higher collaboration and team morale, more effective problem-solving and creativity, and greater public trust, especially in sectors like transport that interact with the community daily. A notable example is Transport for London, which invested significantly in equality and inclusion programmes. This has led to better engagement from diverse employees and more inclusive service design - a model that other cities and companies can adapt.

My experience taught me that the future of transport isn't just about smart roads or high-speed trains. It's about smart cultures that value every voice - no matter where it comes from. As transport continues to digitalise, embracing DEI is not only ethical - it's strategic. Inclusive design results in better, more efficient systems. Diverse teams build resilience into organisations. And equitable hiring brings in talent that has long been excluded but holds the key to unlocking solutions that are as inclusive as the societies we aim to serve.

Let's stop seeing diversity as an obligation. Let's see it as an engine. An engine that drives smarter design, stronger communities, and systems that serve all - equitably and sustainably.