I was told during a recent trip to Canada that diversity was key to innovation and creativity cannot thrive in a climate of fear. I heartily agree, which is why it worries me to see the political and popular rhetoric emerging from Brexit in the UK and Trump’s election in the US, not to mention the looming possibility that similar right-wing movements might take hold in other European countries such as France.
Creativity cannot exist in a climate of fear Click To TweetTechnologists in the US are also understandably concerned that they might get conscripted into enabling the creation of a “Muslim Register” or similar databases that help target people on the basis of their race, religion or national origin. The historical parallels are quite disturbing, and many recently signed a pledge to say they’d refuse to participate in such initiatives.
But with Donald Trump’s inauguration now upon us, and Theresa May’s “Hard Brexit” ordeal about to start in earnest, will liberal-minded techies be forced to look for greener creative pastures? Canada certainly hopes so, and the country is doing a pretty good job of making itself welcoming.
Not only does Canada have arguably the world’s most charismatic leader – now that Barak Obama has vacated that post -in Justin Trudeau (I mean, just look at the guy, he could be part of the recent dance-in protest staged outside Mike Pence’s house in DC) but it also boasts a host of friendly immigration and tax policies, great quality of life and a booming tech ecosystem.
Innovation needs diversity to thrive, and Canada seems to get that Click To TweetIn this article for The Next Web I talk to one of the companies North of the border looking to capitalise on this, and ask British Columbia’s Minister of Technology for his insights into what gives areas like Vancouver the edge in attracting coveted tech talent to the region.
After Trump and Brexit, Canada’s Tech Industry Prepares for a Talent-Poaching Bonanza https://t.co/sqr3n9XSe1 via @thenextweb
— Tecntrend (@alicebonasio) January 20, 2017
Also published on Medium.
