Affect represents a crucial element to the learning process, and learners differ markedly in what sparks their motivation and enthusiasm for learning. Learners must be able to bring their authentic selves to the learning environment and find connections to what matters most in their lives. The UDL framework emphasizes the idea of learner variability, and learners’ multiple and intersecting identities are an essential layer of fully recognizing the notion of learner variability. Further, learners' interests and sources of motivation may vary depending on the context. In reality, there is not one means of engagement that will be optimal for all learners in all contexts; multiple options for engagement are essential.