Diversity Day 2023 Q&A
2 weeks ago • 1 min read
Belen is passionate about celebrating everyone’s differences in the workplace, and this Diversity Day, we chatted to her about what diversity means to her.

Belen has recently joined the Fibrus team and is originally from Puerto Vallarta in Mexico 🇲🇽, having relocated to Northern Ireland 10 years ago.
Belen is passionate about celebrating everyone’s differences in the workplace, and this Diversity Day, we chatted to her about what diversity means to her.
- Name:
Belen Dueñas Carranza
- Position:
Senior Associate, Learning & Development
- Where are you from?
I am from Puerto Vallarta, a beautiful beach town located on the Pacific coast of Mexico. The capital is Jalisco, which is known as the capital of mariachi and tequila.
- What brought you to Northern Ireland?
I met my partner working on a cruise ship many years ago. He grew up in Northern Ireland and we decided to settle in Belfast as I fell in love with the island of Ireland.
- What do you love most about NI?
NI is such a beautiful place. I love the landscape and its endless shades of green. Belfast city is vibrant and full of live, with plenty to do. I enjoy road trips to the countryside, taking in the beautiful views and the fresh air. I still remember the first time we were stopped by sheep in the middle of the road, just like a postcard I’d seen before of Ireland.
- Do you have a favourite place in NI?
Many! 😊 I love the North Coast. I am a fan of nature. Giant’s Causeway would be one of my favourite places. I am fascinated with the hexagonal-shaped stones there.
Nature is just beautiful in general, and it is amazing how these stones are still in such good condition after millions of years.
- What does diversity mean to you?
To me diversity is about recognising individual’s differences, such as our nationality, personality, education, life experience, beliefs, age, gender, religion, values, etc. It’s everything that makes each of us different, unique, and special. I also think diversity is about respecting, empowering and valuing these differences.
- How does Fibrus advocate for diversity in the workplace?
I think promoting diversity in the workplace is a key focus for Fibrus. We have a diverse workforce, with colleagues from different walk of life, from different parts of the world, all working within the organisation in different departments.
Although the company has not been established that long but they have already won a number of well recognised awards and accreditations such as “We Invest in People” by Investors in People and the “Advancing Diversity in the Workplace” award by Woman in Business. There is also Diversity & Inclusion training for staff to promote awareness.
- How has Fibrus made you feel included and supported in the workplace?
I have only been with Fibrus for one month but from the day I started, I have felt so welcomed. Everyone has been very friendly and approachable. This welcoming culture is at all levels within the organisation. It gives me a sense of belonging and I am so happy to be part of this family.
- Do you have any hobbies/what do you like to do in your free time?/ When are you at your happiest?
I love travelling and experiencing new culture, especially trying different types of food from different parts of the world. I love dancing too.
I am a crazy cat lover, and I can watch cat videos on social media for hours. 😻
Family is very important to me. I am happiest when I can spend time with my family and make memories with them.