Learning to Respect Differences

One thing about every human being is that everyone is unique in their own way, which makes the world more interesting. These unique qualities can be evident in both physical appearance and non-physical traits. At GLAMI, we value and appreciate everyone’s uniqueness and the different contributions each person brings to the organization, because these differences foster creativity and innovation.

One of GLAMI’s core values is Respect, meaning that GLAMI staff practice respect in all forms, including respecting individuals and valuing everyone’s ideas and abilities. GLAMI staff demonstrate this by understanding each person’s personality, recognizing boundaries, and learning how staff can work together effectively to achieve shared goals. This sometimes goes beyond GLAMI’s premises, as respect extends beyond just the staff.

Recently, a staff peer training session focused on Personality Traits, Psychology, and Human Behavior, a topic that sparks curiosity in everyone. The facilitator, a fellow staff member, begins by asking a simple question: “Why do people react so differently to the same situation?” Laughter and thoughtful nods fill the room as team members share real-life examples. Soon, the discussion flows naturally, with participants exchanging perspectives and insights. By the end of the session, everyone not only understands themselves better but also how to work more effectively with others.

GLAMI Outreach Social Worker and staff facilitating the session
GLAMI staff, participating in the session

Anna, Program Mentor, said, “I never knew anything about personality traits before, but today I have come to understand my personality and how the differences I hold can be used to support the team.”

Jane, a Binti alumna and a volunteer at GLAMI, said, “Today’s session has made me realize that how people act differently in the same situation is something to be respected too. I sometimes asked myself why a person would choose to act in a different way from how I would have acted in the same situation. It used to trouble me and made me sometimes very judgmental, but today I have learned that those are personality traits, human behaviors, and the differences that exist between us. So now, I won’t be troubled by how people act in certain situations because it’s just who they are.”

Staff attentively engaged during the peer training
Staff engaging in a group discussion during the peer training

uch discussions create awareness and understanding among staff, helping them appreciate differences and practice respect in their daily interactions.

It is true that understanding one’s personality helps us know how to relate to others in different situations. It is key to reducing conflicts in workspaces, as it helps us understand boundaries and how to communicate effectively. It also supports understanding how people from different backgrounds can come together and agree on a common solution.

Deborah, Communications Manager, said, “The first time I learned about these three topics was in 2019, when I had just joined GLAMI as a mentor. It is always interesting to understand the personalities and behaviors that everyone has. It really reduces the risk of misunderstandings and conflicts. I’m glad that my colleagues also get to understand who I am and what I value. It helps create a work environment that is not toxic.”

How does GLAMI do it? It is through peer-to-peer staff training.

Every Wednesday morning, GLAMI holds staff peer-to-peer training sessions, where staff share their knowledge and skills with one another. This ensures that those with more experience or expertise can support colleagues who are still developing in those areas.

To give some context on how peer training started: over the years, GLAMI has nurtured a culture of knowledge sharing, where staff contribute their skills, experiences, and insights to the entire team. This practice strengthens collaboration, enhances professional growth, and ensures that everyone, regardless of background or role, has the opportunity to learn and contribute.

Our team comprises individuals with diverse professional experiences, and many attend various workshops and external training programs. Peer training provides the perfect platform to bring those learnings back to GLAMI, benefiting the entire organization.

One of the biggest advantages of peer training is that it is cost-effective. Without requiring large budgets, we create powerful learning spaces where staff gain new skills and knowledge. It also helps new team members adjust quickly to a learning-oriented environment, where knowledge sharing is part of our daily work culture.

“We encourage other organizations to adopt staff peer training, it is simple, resource-friendly, and highly effective” said Anna, Program Mentor. With peer training, the team itself becomes the greatest resource for capacity building. When one person grows, the team grows, and when the team grows, the whole organization advances.

Peer training at GLAMI is more than just a learning activity; it is a transformative culture. It builds confidence, nurtures collaboration, and empowers every member to reach their full potential while supporting the collective mission of the organization.

Written and Contributed by : Anna Abel, Program Mentor