The phrase "Divide et impera" - divide and conquer - was popularised by the Romans and has echoed through history as a ruthless but effective strategy.
From empires to politics, it has been used to weaken opposition by setting people against one another. It’s a tactic that exploits difference rather than celebrating it.
Sadly, when I look at our great nation, and even closer to home here in our region, I see worrying signs of this very same approach creeping back into our daily lives. We live in a time when we are constantly encouraged to pick sides. Where nuance is dismissed. Where it seems you can no longer hold complementary views without being judged or labelled. Too often it is presented as either/or, black or white, Islam or Christianity, left or right.
My own journey has shown me the damage this polarisation can do. Growing up in Newcastle, I witnessed both the strength of community and the sting of division. I used to believe complaints about racism and discrimination were exaggerated, until lived experience and the stories of those around me made it impossible to ignore. These divides cut deep, and the consequences are not abstract. They affect livelihoods, opportunities, and wellbeing.
But there is another way. Now more than ever, we need inclusion by default. Not as a buzzword or a box-ticking exercise, but as a genuine commitment to valuing every person, every community, every contribution.
That’s why I am so proud of what we’ve built through Asian Business Connexions (ABC). For nearly two decades, we have celebrated all communities, recognising the significant and sustained contributions of individuals and organisations often overlooked. On 9th October we will gather again for the ABC Awards, not just to applaud the headline successes, but to shine a light on the people behind the scenes who make a difference every day.
It is both a privilege and a joy to see so many people and organisations platformed through ABC. From small charities working quietly to transform lives, to entrepreneurs breaking barriers, to unsung heroes whose kindness changes communities. These are the stories that show what happens when we come together rather than allow ourselves to be divided.
The call to action is clear. We cannot allow ourselves to be conquered by division, or swayed by the noise of headline-grabbing views and statements designed to pit us against each other. We must resist the temptation of tribalism, and instead recognise that our differences are strengths, our diversity is an asset, and our unity is our power.
So let us return to where we began. Divide and conquer may have built empires in the past. But if we want to build a better future, here in the North East and across the UK, we must choose a different path: one of communication, collaboration, and celebration. The Power of 3 methodology that I established whilst the proud visiting Professor of Innovation and Enterprise at Newcastle University back in 2015. An approach that has never been more needed.
For nearly two decades, ABC has shown what is possible when people unite across divides. That spirit is our greatest strength.
We cannot allow ourselves to be broken apart. We must rise above the noise, lift each other higher, and build bridges where others would build walls.
Not divided. Not conquered. Together – stronger, prouder, unstoppable.
Ammar Mirza CBE is Chair & Founder of Asian Business Connexions, Executive Chair of the AmmarM Group, Honorary Colonel of 101 Regiment RA and holds various positions across the public and private sectors with a deep interest in Inclusion, Innovation and Internationalisation.