Emma writes...
Monthly comment and insights from the NHD Editor, Emma Coates, RD
Emma has been a Registered Dietitian for over 17 years and has experience in adult and paediatric dietetics. She has been the Editor of NHD for seven years, steering the editorial content and supporting the production process. Emma currently works in industry.
Emma Coates, RD
CELEBRATING DIETITIANS WEEK 2023: EMBRACING DIVERSITY IN DIETETICS - 5th-9th June 2023
Dietitians Week 2023 is almost here, and this year's celebration promises to be particularly inspiring. With the themes of #WeAreDietetics and #WhatADietitianLooksLike, the week of 5th to 9th June aims to highlight the diversity, inclusivity and impact of our profession.
What can you expect this year? #DW2023
EMBRACING DIVERSITY IN DIETETICS
Dietitians Week 2023 aims to embrace and celebrate diversity within the dietetics profession by highlighting the ‘faces of dietetics’. The #WeAreDietetics campaign showcases the wide range of professionals working in the field, including dietitians from various ethnic backgrounds, genders, ages and abilities and emphasises the unique perspectives, skills, and experiences that each dietitian offers. This year’s campaign seeks to promote a diverse dietetics community, highlighting the many specialisms and roles within our community.
#WhatADietitianLooksLike
Dietitians come in all shapes and sizes, with varied interests and backgrounds. The #WhatADietitianLooksLike campaign aims to highlight this, challenging stereotypes and preconceived notions about dietitians, and showcasing their diverse passions and pursuits. This is about promoting the understanding that dietitians are defined by their knowledge, expertise and dedication to improving people's health through nutrition.
GETTING INVOLVED
Dietitians Week provides an excellent opportunity to contribute to this year’s messages. Here are a few ways to get involved:
- Share your story: Use the hashtags #WeAreDietetics and #WhatADietitianLooksLike to share your own unique story. Share selfies at work or a day in your life by filming yourself and sharing insights about your experiences and the impact you have made in your community. By sharing your journey, you help challenge stereotypes and inspire others to pursue careers in dietetics.
- Organise events: Organise events and activities within your workplace or community to promote the themes of diversity and inclusion. Why not host a workshop, a webinar, or a panel discussion to explore the experiences of dietitians ? Encourage open dialogue and create a supportive environment for sharing stories and ideas.
- Engage on social media: Join the conversation on social media platforms by following and engaging with the hashtags #WeAreDietetics and also #WhatADietitianLooksLike. There’s also #DW2023 too. Like, comment, and share posts from other dietitians to amplify their voices and perspectives. Engage in discussions, ask questions and celebrate the achievements of fellow professionals. It's time to pat ourselves on the back!
- Share favourite food hacks: Here's a chance to talk about food, your favourite dishes and offer advice and tips for patients and clients within your specialism.
- Mentorship and networking: Why not go a step further and offer mentorship to aspiring dietitians or healthcare professionals from underrepresented backgrounds. Share your experiences and provide guidance to help them navigate their career paths. Actively seek out networking opportunities, foster connections and collaborate within the dietetics community.
Let’s embrace the diversity within our profession, challenge stereotypes and work together to empower others. I wish you a successful and enjoyable Dietitians Week 2023. Emma
