Community Business: Recent Episodes
Community Business
Community Business is a not-for-profit organisation (Hong Kong Charity Number 91/6560) whose mission is to lead, inspire and support businesses to have a positive impact on people and communities. A recognised leader in advancing responsible and inclusive business practices in Asia, Community Business facilitates networks, conducts research and events, leads programmes and campaigns and provides training and consulting. Our focus on responsible business is aligned to four mission-led themes:
• Building responsible leadership • Tackling workplace inequality • Ensuring employee wellbeing • Promoting social inclusion
Founded in 2003 and based in Hong Kong with a presence in India and the United Kingdom, Community Business works with companies of all sizes and from diverse industries across Asia, harnessing the power of business to drive social change. For more information, please visit www.communitybusiness.org.
In this episode of CB Up for Discussion, we are joined by Danny Kittinun Dharamadaj, President of the Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand and a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in Southeast Asia. Danny is joined by his interpreter, Ohm Rapeepun Jommaroeng. For ease of listening, we have retained the English interpretation only. Danny shares his inspiring journey from entrepreneur to activist and the pivotal role he played in Thailand’s historic achievement of marriage equality—the first in Southeast Asia.
Throughout the episode, we explore several key areas:
- Danny reflects on the early struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Thailand, including societal stigma, legal challenges, and the fight against HIV/AIDS discrimination.
- We learn about the long and complex advocacy process that led to the passing of the Marriage Equality Act in Thailand, highlighting the legal and political hurdles overcome along the way.
- Danny discusses the significance of this milestone for LGBTQ+ inclusion in Thailand and the broader region, emphasizing the importance of legal recognition for equal rights and protections.
- We also explore how intersectional inclusion, legal knowledge, and community organizing have combined to drive progress and empower sexual diversity in Thailand.
Join us for an enlightening conversation about resilience, advocacy, and the ongoing journey toward equality and inclusion in Southeast Asia. Tune in now!
In this episode of CB Up for Discussion, we are joined by Danny Kittinun Dharamadaj, President of the Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand and a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in Southeast Asia. Danny is joined by his interpreter, Ohm Rapeepun Jommaroeng. For ease of listening, we have retained the English interpretation only. Danny shares his inspiring journey from entrepreneur to activist and the pivotal role he played in Thailand’s historic achievement of marriage equality—the first in Southeast Asia. Throughout the episode, we explore several key areas: Danny reflects on the early struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Thailand, including societal stigma, legal challenges, and the fight against HIV/AIDS discrimination. We learn about the long and complex advocacy process that led to the passing of the Marriage Equality Act in Thailand, highlighting the legal and political hurdles overcome along the way. Danny discusses the significance of this milestone for LGBTQ+ inclusion in Thailand and the broader region, emphasizing the importance of legal recognition for equal rights and protections. We also explore how intersectional inclusion, legal knowledge, and community organizing have combined to drive progress and empower sexual diversity in Thailand. Join us for an enlightening conversation about resilience, advocacy, and the ongoing journey toward equality and inclusion in Southeast Asia. Tune in now!
This episode of Up for Discussion sets us up nicely for Pride month in a couple of weeks. We are delighted to be joined by Marni Panas, Chair of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion and fellow GIDA member. Marni is a seasoned DE&I advocate and a proud transwoman who's impressive career spans health care, HR as well as DE&I leadership roles. In this episode, Janet and Marni explore: - Marni's personal advocacy journey - Continuing to view Pride as a protest in light of recent global shifts - Tips for allies who want to step up and support their LGBTQ+ friends and colleagues - A reminder of those crucial 5 Ds of being an Upstander Janet and Marni end on a positive note, reaffirming how friendship can flourish across borders and timezones and reflecting on how to stay positive in 2025. Don't miss this powerful conversation!
In this episode of CB Up for Discussion, we are joined by Tim Macavoy, Head of Product at Radius Networks. With a dynamic background spanning the arts, technology, and media, Tim brings a wealth of experience to the world of DE&I-particularly in empowering and supporting employee resource groups (ERGs) across global organisations. Passionate about fostering communities where everyone belongs, Tim shares his unique journey from founding LGBTQ+ youth radio and university networks to leading innovative DE&I solutions for top companies.In this episode, we delve into:• The inspiration behind the Radius Networks ERG Impact Report, including how employee resource groups are driving positive workplace change, supporting business strategy, and enhancing careers.• The unique challenges and opportunities for ERGs in the Asia context, from navigating complex cultural and language nuances to shifting from hierarchical to network-based leadership.• Key findings from the Radius report, including how ERGs are thriving, fostering belonging for everyone, and contributing to tangible business outcomes.• The power of partnership, learning, and community in sustaining inclusive ecosystems and driving sustainable change.Join us as we explore Tim’s insights on the transformational power of employee networks and get practical advice for organisations looking to amplify inclusion through ERGs-across Asia and beyond. Tune in now!
In this episode of Up for Discussion, we are joined by Mary-Frances Winters, founder and CEO of The Winters Group Inc., a global diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice consulting firm. An acclaimed author and recognised DE&I trailblazer, Mary-Frances brings decades of experience advocating for justice and equity. She shares her unique perspective shaped by coming of age during the civil rights movement and her extensive work advancing inclusive leadership worldwide. Throughout the episode, we explore several key areas: Mary-Frances discusses the current backlash against DE&I efforts in the U.S., unpacking the misconceptions about affirmative action and “reverse discrimination,” and why inclusion benefits everyone. We hear about the ongoing challenges organisations face in creating truly equitable workplaces, including unconscious bias and the importance of recognising diverse experiences — from race and gender to neurodiversity. Mary-Frances emphasises the critical role of empathy and dialogue in bridging divides and engaging dominant groups in DE&I work. She shares candid reflections on systemic inequities and the global nature of these challenges, including how political climates impact progress. Join us for a powerful and hopeful conversation that offers deep insights into advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in today’s complex world. Tune in now!
In this episode of CB Up for Discussion, we are joined by Penny Barsha, Asia Head of Corporate Responsibility at Linklaters, and Rachel Li, Head of Case Management and Research at HELP for Domestic Workers. Together, they share their inspiring collaboration on the HELPline program, an initiative that provides emergency support, shelter, and comprehensive assistance to migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong.Throughout the episode, we explore several key areas:• Penny and Rachel discuss the inception of HELPline and how the partnership between Linklaters and HELP has evolved over the years to address the critical needs of migrant domestic workers.• We learn about the challenges faced by migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong, including employment disputes, debt cycles, immigration issues, and access to healthcare.• The tangible impacts of HELPline are highlighted through inspiring stories of transformation, such as Lillian’s journey from exploitation to becoming a community leader.• The importance of corporate partnerships with grassroots organizations is emphasized, with advice on how businesses can create meaningful CSR initiatives that align with community needs.• Penny and Rachel share their thoughts on empathy and curiosity as essential tools for creating lasting change in society.Join us for an enlightening conversation about how corporates and NGOs can work together to empower marginalized communities and make a ripple of change across society. Tune in now!
In today’s episode we are joined by Fyiona Yong, a pioneering executive coach in Asia, specialising in diversity, equity, and inclusion. She is also the podcast host of The Thriving Misfits, a two-time TEDx speaker, and the author of the acclaimed book, "How to Thrive as a Misfit." In this episode, we delve into: - Fyiona's perspective on how Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) can effectively foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within organisations.- The unique challenges ERGs face in the Asian context, including cultural sensitivities.- The importance of ERGs moving beyond performative gestures to drive genuine change.- Exploring how ERGs can evolve to address intersectionality and social mobility, shifting the conversation from identity markers to systemic change.- Strategies for engaging leadership in ERGs, emphasising the role of passionate committee members. Join us as we explore Fyiona's insights on leveraging ERGs to drive meaningful change and promote inclusive workplaces. Tune in now!
Today, we have a very special episode with our very own Ron Sampaga, hosted by Janet Ledger. Both are returning for this #cbspecial episode of Up For Discussion. With a passion for building inclusive workplaces and a wealth of experience in learning and development, Janet and Ron are dedicated to equipping leaders with the skills they need to create environments where everyone can thrive.In this episode, we delve into:• What inclusive leadership really means, and why it’s about more than just policies.• The inspiration behind Community Business's Inclusive Leadership Programme, and Ron's personal connection to its mission.• The key components of the programme, including how it helps leaders discover their strengths, address unconscious biases, and create psychological safety.• The challenges that leaders face when trying to create more inclusive workplaces, particularly in the Asian context (changing deep-rooted cultural norms, recognising unconscious biases, etc.).• Practical advice for leaders who are just starting out on their journey towards inclusive leadership, emphasising self-reflection, openness to feedback, and authenticity.• How inclusive leadership contributes to achieving gender equality in the workplace and why it's important to involve everyone, not just women.• Practical actions for how to be an ally.Join us as we explore Janet and Ron's insights on becoming a more inclusive leader and championing gender equality in the workplace. Tune in now!
In continuation with our Social Mobility campaign, today, we are thrilled to have Elizabeth Thompson on Up for discussion. She is a pioneering force in the NGO sector and the founder of the Amber Foundation. With a wealth of experience in empowering ethnically diverse young women in Hong Kong, Elizabeth is dedicated to enhancing their visibility and career success through her impactful program, EMPOWER. In this episode, we delve into: Elizabeth's journey in establishing the Amber Foundation and the EMPOWER program. The critical importance of social mobility for young women from low-income ethnic minority families. How financial independence can uplift entire families and communities. The structure of the EMPOWER program, including workshops and networking opportunities with major corporations. Inspiring success stories from participants who have secured internships and jobs at prestigious organisations. Join us as we explore Elizabeth's insights on creating pathways to success for young women and the vital role of community support in fostering social change. Tune in now!
To celebrate Black History Month, in this episode of Up for Discussion, we're tackling an important topic: What does it mean to be Black in Asia? Our guest, Innocent Mutanga, offers a crucial perspective on the experiences of Black individuals living and working in Asian countries. We'll be exploring issues of representation, cultural understanding, and the unique challenges and triumphs that come with navigating race in a region often overlooked in global conversations about diversity and inclusion. In this episode, we discuss: - Innocent's personal journey and experiences as a Black individual in Asia. - The importance of representation for Black individuals in leadership positions and the media. - How cultural differences impact the way racial issues are perceived and addressed in Asian countries. - Examples of discrimination or bias Innocent has faced and how he navigated those situations. - How organizations and communities in Asia can better support Black individuals and promote inclusivity.
In this episode of CB Up for Discussion, we are joined by Ted Khoo, who leads Group People Sustainability at AIA. Originally from Malaysia and now based in Hong Kong, Ted shares his inspiring journey as a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and his commitment to advocating for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in the workplace. Throughout the episode, we explore several key areas: Ted's personal experiences growing up in a conservative environment and the pivotal moments that shaped his identity. The challenges of promoting DEIB in Asia and the importance of authenticity in organizational practices. The critical role of respect and empathy in fostering inclusive workplaces. The need for organizations to move beyond superficial diversity efforts and truly engage with their employees' diverse backgrounds. Ted's insights on training and enablement, emphasizing the importance of ongoing support for employees navigating their identities. Join us for an enlightening conversation about the power of inclusivity and how we can all contribute to meaningful change in our workplaces and communities! Tune in now!
In this episode of CB Up for Discussion, we are excited to welcome Grace Cheng, the founder and CEO of AgeWhale, a social enterprise dedicated to supporting family caregivers of older adults. Inspired by her personal experience caring for her grandparents, Grace shares her journey and the motivation behind creating AgeWhale in July 2023.Grace discusses the challenges faced by caregivers, particularly in the workplace, where support for elder care is often lacking compared to parental leave. She highlights the urgent need for awareness and resources to help caregivers navigate their responsibilities while balancing their careers. With an aging population, Grace emphasizes that caregiving is a universal experience that requires collective attention and action.Throughout the episode, Grace explores:•The complexities of caregiving and the emotional toll it can take.•The current state of caregiver support in workplaces and the gaps that exist.•Best practices from around the world that can serve as models for improving support systems.•The importance of fostering a culture where caregivers feel comfortable sharing their struggles.Join us for an insightful conversation about the vital role of caregivers and how we can all contribute to creating a more supportive environment for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. Tune in now!
In this episode of CB Up for Discussion, we are thrilled to welcome Greg Morley, the former Global Head of Diversity at Moët Hennessy, a division of LVMH. With a wealth of experience in fostering inclusive environments across the Asia-Pacific region, Greg shares his insights on the significance of belonging in the workplace and how it can drive organizational success. Greg discusses his journey in diversity and inclusion, highlighting the importance of creating cultures where everyone feels valued and heard. He emphasizes that true inclusion starts with understanding the unique cultural contexts within which organizations operate and encourages leaders to engage with their teams to define what belonging means for them.Key topics include:•The inspiration behind Greg's book, Bond, which explores strategies for cultivating a culture of belonging.•The critical role of leadership in driving diversity initiatives from the top down.•How employee resource groups can effectively engage grassroots efforts while ensuring alignment with broader organizational goals.•The necessity of fostering common ground among diverse groups to build a more inclusive culture.Join us for an enlightening conversation about the keys to creating thriving workplaces where everyone can succeed! Tune in now!
As the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women we are thrilled to be joined by Priya Varadarajan, a dedicated advocate for gender justice and the founder of Durga. With over 23 years of experience in governmental affairs and civil society, Priya shares her insights on empowering women and girls to build agency and combat sexual violence in public spaces.In this episode, we discuss:• The inspiration behind Durga and its mission to prevent sexual harassment.•The normalization of inappropriate behaviour and the need to shift societal narratives around women's safety.•The importance of education and awareness in preventing violence against women, particularly focusing on sensitivity building among men.•How Durga addresses intersectionality by working with the most vulnerable members of society.•The role of corporate environments in safeguarding against violence and promoting awareness.Join us for a thought-provoking conversation about advocacy, community engagement, and the essential steps needed to create safer public spaces for everyone!
Inclusion in American Politics | Up for Discussion with Brian Sims
On the eve of the US elections, we have an exciting episode discussing the ins and outs of US politics and its impact on diversity, equity and inclusion around the world. In this episode of CB Up for Discussion, we’re thrilled to welcome Brian Sims, a former Pennsylvania legislator and passionate civil rights attorney. Join us as Brian shares his journey from disability law to becoming a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, providing a unique perspective on the shifting landscape of inclusion across different political administrations.
As we approach the upcoming elections, Brian emphasizes the critical role that local politics play in shaping our everyday lives and the importance of civic engagement. We also discussed
• The evolution of LGBTQ+ rights under the Obama, Trump, and Biden administrations.
• The significance of local elections in influencing civil rights.
• Insights on the future of affirmative action policies.
• The role of social movements in reshaping political conversations.
• The importance of active participation in democracy.
Tune in for an engaging conversation about advocacy, empowerment, and how each of us can contribute to a more equitable society!
Nearly 50% of Hong Kong can’t swim. Which is why programmes like Splash are needed in our community. In this episode of CB Up for Discussion, we're excited to welcome Simon Holliday, co-founder of the Splash programme, and Daisy Luscaw, a senior swim coach who has transitioned from participant to leader.
Splash is more than just a swimming initiative; it’s a transformative programme that empowers marginalized communities, particularly migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong. Through swimming, participants not only gain essential life skills but also build confidence, social connections, and a sense of belonging.
Join us as Simon and Daisy share their personal journeys and the impact of Splash on mental well-being and social mobility. We’ll discuss:
The significance of swimming as a life skill and its implications for social mobility
The holistic benefits of physical activity on mental health
Inspiring success stories from participants who have found community and purpose through Splash
This episode is a celebration of resilience, connection, and the ripple effects that come from creating inclusive spaces. Tune in to discover how we can all contribute to a healthier, more supportive community!
As we approach World Mental Health Day this week, it's a perfect time to highlight the importance of visibility and support for LGBTQ+ youth. In particular, overcoming obstacles and maintaining positivity in the face of challenges. In our next episode of Up for Discussion, we are thrilled to welcome Abbie, the inspiring 15-year-old founder of the Rainbow Shoelace Project.
Abbie started this initiative to combat bullying and promote acceptance among young people. With over 280,000 packs of rainbow beads distributed globally, her project has become a symbol of pride and community for LGBTQ+ youth.
Join us as Abbie shares her personal journey, the challenges she faced in a small town, and how she turned her experiences into a powerful movement. We’ll discuss:
The significance of representation and visibility in schools
The impact of bullying on mental health
Abbie’s vision for a more inclusive future
This episode is not just about advocacy; it's about creating safe spaces where everyone can feel accepted and loved. Tune in to learn how we can all contribute to a brighter future for LGBTQ+ youth!
"LGBTQ+ individuals have significant health needs that we actually have not really looked into or not widely addressed in places like Hong Kong.”
In this episode of Up for Discussion, we are excited to welcome Professor Edmond Choi from the University of Hong Kong, a leading expert in mental and sexual health, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. Join us as Professor Choi shares his journey into LGBTQ+ healthcare research and discusses the unique health challenges faced by this community in Hong Kong. We will explore critical topics, including:
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The current state of healthcare access for LGBTQ+ individuals in Hong Kong
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The importance of inclusive sexual health education
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The impact of societal stigma on mental health and healthcare utilisation
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Strategies for improving health outcomes through better policies and practices
Professor Choi emphasises the urgent need for comprehensive healthcare solutions that cater to the diverse needs of LGBTQ+ individuals. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on how we can advocate for better health resources and support for the LGBTQ+ community, fostering a more inclusive society for all.
Learn More: www.communitybusiness.org
On this World Suicide Prevention Day, we invite you to join us for a heartfelt and important episode of Up for Discussion. We are honored to welcome Jess Hulton, Director and Founder of The New Normal (TNN) charity in Hong Kong, and Désirée Fong, Director of Equity and Inclusion on the TNN HK board.
In this episode, Jess and Désirée share their personal journeys that led them to establish TNN, a charity dedicated to challenging mental health stigma and providing peer support to those in need. With over 1,200 individuals benefiting from their services, TNN is making a significant impact in the community.
We will explore critical topics, including:
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The importance of peer support in mental health
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The cultural challenges surrounding mental health discussions in Hong Kong
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The alarming rise in suicide rates and the factors contributing to this crisis
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Practical strategies for preventing suicide and supporting those in distress
Jess and Désirée emphasise that suicide is one of the most preventable issues we face, and they share their insights on how open conversations and empathetic listening can save lives.
Tune in for this essential discussion as we shed light on mental health, the power of community, and the steps we can all take to support one another.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, we encourage you to reach out for help. Your mental health matters, and you are not alone.
Resources:
Hong Kong: Caritas 24-hour Crisis Line 18288
Singapore: Institute of Mental Health 6389 2222
India: 1Life +91 78930 78930
Mainland China: Crisis 800–810–1117 (for landline callers) or 010–8295–1332 (for mobile and VoIP callers)
Philippines: National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline 1553
Japan: TELL Lifeline 0800-300-8355
Other resources: www.iasp.info/suicidalthoughts/
Financial Literacy for Kids | Up for Discussion with Will Rainey Did you know that 86% of people say their financial situation has worsened their mental health? In our latest episode of Up for Discussion, we welcome Will Rainey, author of Grandpa's Fortune Fables and a passionate advocate for teaching kids about money. Will shares his journey from investment consultant to empowering parents to educate their children about financial management. We explore: - The importance of financial literacy for kids - Societal taboos surrounding money conversations - Practical tips for fostering healthy money habits - How financial education shapes career choices and wellbeing Will emphasizes the power of financial knowledge: "If children know how to manage their money when they're young, it empowers them to make so many different decisions when they're adults." This episode is essential for parents, educators, and anyone interested in breaking the cycle of financial illiteracy. Join us for an insightful discussion on raising financially savvy kids and creating a more secure future!
This Olympics made history with 193 openly out athletes winning a total of 42 total medals, ranking 7th if they were a country. In this episode of Up for Discussion, we have Alan Lang, the co-chair of Gay Games. He led a team of 270 volunteers, successfully raised 3.4 million USD, and organised 18 sports events along with opening and closing ceremonies. A true feat of LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. In this episode, we discussed: - Unique challenges LGBTQ+ athletes face in professional sports - Transphobia in sports and how to educate people about this topic - The recent controversy surrounding boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting - How to create a more inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ athletesLearn More: www.communitybusiness.org
How can we create impactful change in the world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I)? In this episode of Up for Discussion, we welcome Jeiz Robles, Director of DE&I at Community Business and one of Involve's Top 20 Global LGBTQ+ Future Leaders. Jeiz, a Filipina, bisexual, neurodivergent woman, shares her journey from the corporate world to leading DE&I initiatives in Asia. We explore: - The evolution of DE&I practices - Pandemic's impact on employee wellbeing - Emerging trends in workplace inclusion - Importance of community building - Supporting diverse identities in organizations Jeiz offers a fresh perspective on measuring DE&I success: "The real measure is when people can freely talk about their experiences, ideas, and themselves without second-guessing." This episode is essential for anyone seeking to understand DE&I's critical role in creating equitable workplaces. Join us for an insightful discussion on fostering inclusivity in the modern workplace.
How is Social Mobility Advancing DE&I in Asia? Our guest, Holly McGhee, Diversity, Equity & Inclusiveness Director at EY Asia Pacific, dives into the intricacies of socio-economic status in Asia. She shares her personal journey with social mobility, how it can make an impact in the workplace and why now is the right time to further this conversation. She also shares insights on the Community Business’ upcoming research on social mobility. We would like to become a place where people who come from different socio-economic backgrounds can thrive, can really bring their full selves; the different perspectives that they have and their different experiences, together adding value to our organization. - Holly McGhee, Diversity, Equity & Inclusiveness Director at EY Asia Pacific
This episode of Up for Discussion features Cattreeya Thithiwongsawet, Asia Regional Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Leader at Seagate Technology.Watch the video to learn about:1) Cat's journey to becoming a DE&I leader 2) Some pivotal experiences that shaped Cat's approach to LGBTQ+ inclusion? 3) How did Cat navigate the complexities of promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion in a region with diverse cultural, religious, and legal contexts?
This episode of Up for Discussion features Meenu Bhambhani from State Street, delves into the topic of disability inclusion and the rapidly advancing AI and accessibility landscape, in conversation with our Executive Director Sandhya Manoj.Watch the video to learn about:👉 How lack of accessibility affects the inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace👉 Use of accessibility tools in the workplace and the apprehensions around them👉 What organisations need to do to empower, enable and support people with disabilities, while making workplaces more accessible
"There is a lot of conversation around raising awareness... I think we've done a lot in terms of raising awareness. I think now is the time to take action. If we're not going to take action, we're going to be raising awareness for the next 20 years and nothing is going to happen." - Manisha Wijesinghe, Executive Director, HELP for Domestic WorkersAhead of International Domestic Workers Day on 16 Jun, we invited Manisha Wijesinghe, Executive Director of HELP for Domestic Workers to join us on Up for Discussion. Manisha's knowledge and expertise on migrant workers' experiences in Hong Kong brings a different perspective to understanding systemic inequality in the market, as well as encouraging the future of DE&I to broaden its horizons.Watch the video to learn about:👉What migrant domestic workers mean for the care economy👉What role migrant domestic workers play in Hong Kong's society👉How DE&I leaders can think more broadly about including the Care Economy in their initiatives and policies
Period Equity and Creating Social Impact: Insights from the Found of LUÜNA Naturals
This episode of Up for Discussion features Olivia Cotes-James, the Founder and CEO of LUÜNA Naturals sharing insights about:
👉The importance of destigmatising menstruation
👉Creating social impact and the social enterprise business model
👉How increasing awareness about periods benefits the entire workforce
👉Successful programmes LUÜNA has run that have had a positive impact on society
impactxasia #gender #genderequality #periods #period #periodpoverty #socialimpact #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship
Empowering LGBT+ Equality: Insights from Jerome Yau | Hong Kong Marriage Equality & AIDS Concern
“Corporates can play a role in elevating and improving employees’ wellbeing... It’s important for leadership to [demonstrate] that as a company, we care, it’s beyond a slogan or a piece of policy.”
-Jerome Yau, Co-Founder, Hong Kong Marriage Equality
This episode of Up for Discussion features Jerome Yau from Hong Kong Marriage Equality and AIDS Concern sharing about his role in these two NGOs and the road to equality for LGBT+ people in Hong Kong, as well as the wider region.
Our Senior Programme Manager of the LGBT+ Campaign Scot Jones asked Jerome about:
👉How Hong Kong Marriage Equality was founded
👉Jerome’s observations about societal shifts in Hong Kong
👉AIDS Concern Hong Kong’s objectives
👉The role that corporates can play in improving the lives of LGBT+ individuals
Watch this episode to learn more about the LGBT+ landscape in Hong Kong and Asia from a leading figure in this space.
IMPACTxAsia #LGBT #LGBTQ #LBGTQIA #Equality #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #HongKong #IDAHOT #IDAHOBT #Pride #Marriageequality
"At some point,
it would be more efficient, if we were to be focusing on how to design our businesses and our processes in a universal way, much like architects or interior designers
do universal design... How do we make how we do business
more inclusive for everyone without having to go back
and then put on these Band-Aids?
- Noelle Sinclair, Founder, Diverse Minds
Noelle founded Diverse Minds and helps organisations leverage neurodiversity to enhance team performance and business outcomes, offering specialised neurodiversity training for professionals and developing strategic plans, frameworks, and tools to address current gaps in neurodiversity practices. In this episode of Up for Discussion, our Client Solutions Manager Len Nguyen interviews Noelle about the intersectionality of Neurodiversity and Gender.
Watch this episode to learn about:
👉Noelle's personal experience
👉Gender biases in the history of ADHD and ASD diagnosis
👉What organisations can do to support neurodivergent employees
impactxasia #neurodiversity #autism #adhd #diversityandinclusion #diversityequityinclusion #esg #business #universaldesign
Our CEO Janet Ledger recently joined our GIDA partners for a presentation on Centring Marginalised Voices at Work at the NGO CSW68, a forum run in parallel to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. Janet provided an Asian perspective, reflecting that, "the research we do at Community Business equally advocates for engagement with and listening to those with lived experiences to shape any DE&I strategies with ‘voices’ at the heart of work." As well as presenting at the forum, watch this episode of Up for Discussion to learn more about:👉SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals and how crucial this pillar is in meeting the SDG targets👉The relationships between funders and NGOs and how to demonstrate allyship in a partnership👉The interrelationship between the climate crisis, economic crisis and care crisis Learn More: www.communitybusiness.org#IMPACTxAsia #GenderEquality #partnerships #esg #business #ngo #gender #caregiving
Struck by the slow progress on gender equality in her industry, Nasrine co-founded the Hong Kong Board Directors Investor’s Initiative in 2018 with the goal of influencing the investor/investee sphere to act on the important topic of board diversity. She is passionate about driving change at the top levels in Hong Kong when it comes to board diversity, using both her day job to highlight the corporate governance aspects of board diversity, as well as the Investor’s Initiative to drive the conversation at the wider level. Listen or watch our CEO Janet Ledger interview Nasrine about: 👉The need for board diversity 👉What companies in Hong Kong with all-male boards should focus on to meet HKEX’s target 👉Evaluating the success of voluntary and mandatory quotas
“Humanising difference is important, because when we start to humanise difference, people start to realise actually we’re all the same.” -Shalini Mahtani, Founder and CEO of The Zubin Foundation, Founder of Community Business Shalini Mahtani, the founder of Community Business, is a pioneering and much sought-after voice for good in the DE&I, CSR and wellbeing space. Her accolades speak for themselves. In 2009, Shalini was honoured by the World Economic Forum as a Young Global Leader and a year prior she was awarded an MBE from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for her services in corporate social responsibility in Hong Kong. Today, Shalini is the founder and CEO of The Zubin Foundation, a charity devoted to reducing suffering for Hong Kong's ethnic minorities, racial integration and special education needs of local non-Chinese speakers. Our Director of DE&I Dimuthu de Silva hosted this episode and spoke to Shalini about: 👉The origins of The Zubin Foundation and Shalini’s personal journey 👉The Hong Kong context around racial inequality 👉The initiatives The Zubin Foundation runs to improve the lives of ethnic minorities in Hong Kong 👉What organisations can do to accelerate equality for ethnic minorities in Hong Kong Subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch the video, or catch the audio versions on Apple Podcasts, Castbox, SoundCloud or Spotify. Learn More: https://www.communitybusiness.org/#IMPACTxAsia #Racism #Race #EthnicMinority #EthnicMinorities #Equality #SDG10 #SDG5 #Intersectionality #Equality #Equity
“There are so many amazing skillsets and the more you harness that and the more you bring that together, it will bring even more change, social justice, social impact for so many more people.” - Catherine Husted, Head of Social Impact, Allen & Overy Our first Up for Discussion episode features our CEO Janet Ledger interviewing Catherine Husted on the power of partnerships between corporates and NGOs. Drawing on her experience spearheading Allen & Overy’s CSR activities as pro-bono partner, as well as her work with the Zubin Foundation, this episode features discussions about: 👉Catherine’s experience on both sides of a corporate and NGO partnership 👉The benefits for both parties in a partnership 👉How to get the most out of your partnership Learn More: https://www.communitybusiness.org/
In recent years, Hong Kong has seen its status as a global economic player decline, with companies and individuals choosing to relocate elsewhere in the face of geopolitical turmoil, the fallout from the 2019 protest movement and a slow recovery from strict COVID-19 measures. Considering these challenges, as well as growing competition from other regional and global players, organisations in Hong Kong must up their game to ensure they can continue to compete on the world stage. There are several strong, evidence-based arguments to support diverse boardrooms as well as gender parity at the senior management level, including: 1. Futureproofing Your Business2. Attracting and Retaining Top Talent3. Walking the Talk as a Responsible EmployerLearn More: https://www.communitybusiness.org/latest-news-publications/women-boards-hong-kong%C2%A0
Through our networks and campaigns, we at Community Business have been exploring the concepts of intersectionality and multiple identities for several years with our members and clients. Our DIAN India network explored Intersectionality & Multiple Identities to great success back in 2017. The session, which tackled the concepts in detail as well as giving some examples of practical application, was summerised in an earlier edition of IMPACTxAsia which can be accessed through our website.Learn More: https://www.communitybusiness.org/latest-news-publications/intersectionality-multiple-identities
Global Wellness Day brings to light the age-old question: “How can I live a healthier and better life?”. This day of celebration aims to direct thoughts of both individuals and society towards “living well” not just for today, or in June, but all year round. It is important to first understand what we mean when we use terms like wellness and wellbeing.
Read More: http://bitly.ws/Ivx7
April is Stress Awareness Month and its aim is to raise awareness of the impact of stress. When we think of the word stress, it can trigger a lot of negative feelings. These can be physical, such as an increased heart rate, stomach turning into knots, sweaty palms, fast breathing and they can also be mental and emotional, such as feeling overwhelmed, anxious, racing thoughts, lack of enjoyment in things. These behavioural responses are very taxing and not a pleasant experience. Therefore, it begs the question whether stress is our friend or foe?Read More: https://bit.ly/3K5YR69
As we celebrate International Womens’ Day in 2023, we continue to reflect on the centuries of cemented biases, to injustices, to discrimination, that women have been and go through.
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) states that women are paid 20% less than men, with the ILO calling for state and organisational level reforms for systemic change in order to bridge the gap.
Within Asia, efforts towards financial inclusion are underway but it took the COVID-19 pandemic to accelerate the emergence of Digital Financial Services (DFS) that could reach newer markets and market segments. Research and thought leadership continues to stress the need for an intersectional understanding in order to truly #EmbraceEquity so that solutions ensure the inclusion of women in all aspects of life. In celebration of IWD 2023 and in keeping with this year’s theme, here are three dimensions we should be mindful of everyday to move towards embracing equity.
Learn more: www.communitybusiness.org/latest-news-…uity-3-steps
As we celebrate International Womens’ Day in 2023, we continue to reflect on the centuries of cemented biases, to injustices, to discrimination, that women have been and go through.The International Labour Organisation (ILO) states that women are paid 20% less than men, with the ILO calling for state and organisational level reforms for systemic change in order to bridge the gap.Within Asia, efforts towards financial inclusion are underway but it took the COVID-19 pandemic to accelerate the emergence of Digital Financial Services (DFS) that could reach newer markets and market segments. Research and thought leadership continues to stress the need for an intersectional understanding in order to truly #EmbraceEquity so that solutions ensure the inclusion of women in all aspects of life. In celebration of IWD 2023 and in keeping with this year’s theme, here are three dimensions we should be mindful of everyday to move towards embracing equity.Learn more: https://www.communitybusiness.org/latest-news-publications/embraceequity-3-steps
Welcome to the This Is Me in Asia Podcast Series brought to you by Community Business in partnership with Bloomberg and the Lord Mayor’s Appeal. This storytelling campaign aims to normalise mental health conversations in the workplace and tackle the stigma associated with mental health conditions and disability.
Telling a story is not just about creating awareness, it is also an act of catharsis for the teller.
When one person decides to share their own story - they speak not just for themselves but for many others who may be in the same boat but may not be confident enough to share. So when someone with a personal experience of mental health problems shares their story, they are not just helping themselves, they are doing a great service for the entire community. By sharing their story, they help create a better world.
Lean More: bit.ly/3PbKejF
Welcome to the This Is Me in Asia Podcast Series brought to you by Community Business and in partnership with Bloomberg and the Lord Mayor’s Appeal. This storytelling campaign aims to normalise mental health conversations in the workplace and tackle the stigma associated with mental health conditions and disability.
This is Me was first pioneered by Barclays in the UK in 2014 and is now led by the Lord Mayor's Appeal in London. Community Business first introduced the campaign to Asia in 2019.
The This is Me campaign focuses on personal storytelling and sharing of lived experiences to encourage conversations around mental health in the workplace.
Learn More: www.communitybusiness.org
Welcome to the This Is Me in Asia Podcast Series brought to you by Community Business and in partnership with Bloomberg and the Lord Mayor’s Appeal. This storytelling campaign aims to normalise mental health conversations in the workplace and tackle the stigma associated with mental health conditions and disability.
This is Me was first pioneered by Barclays in the UK in 2014 and is now led by the Lord Mayor's Appeal in London. Community Business first introduced the campaign to Asia in 2019.
The This is Me campaign focuses on personal storytelling and sharing of lived experiences to encourage conversations around mental health in the workplace.
Learn More: www.communitybusiness.org
Marking a landmark moment for LGBT+ campaigners in Singapore, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong gave an address on Sunday, 21 August 2022 during the National Day rally to confirm the decision to repeal the colonial-era law – Section 377A – which criminalised sex between consenting male adults. The archaic law had not been enforced for decades; in fact, back in February of 2022, the Court of Appeal in Singapore ruled that the law could not be used to prosecute men for having sex. Nevertheless, the decision marks a change in attitudes toward the LGBT+ community in this traditionally minded city as well as a positive first step towards equality for Singaporeans who have been campaigning for this change in the law for many years. We commend the activists and campaign groups who have been and continue to tirelessly fight for equality in Singapore.
This historic decision for Singapore follows a similar ruling in India in September 2018 to overturn Section 377, as well as the decision in Taiwan in 2019 to legalise gay marriage, the Sapporo court ruling in Japan that the government’s failure to recognise same-sex marriage is unconstitutional and the beginnings of a positive decision in Thailand for same-sex unions earlier this year. All of these moves signal tentative steps across the Asia region towards equality and acceptance both in society and under the protection of governments.
Read More: bit.ly/3devq5l
Welcome to the This Is Me in Asia Podcast Series brought to you by Community Business and in partnership with Bloomberg and the Lord Mayor’s Appeal. This storytelling campaign aims to normalise mental health conversations in the workplace and tackle the stigma associated with mental health conditions and disability.
This is Me was first pioneered by Barclays in the UK in 2014 and is now led by the Lord Mayor's Appeal in London. Community Business first introduced the campaign to Asia in 2019.
The This is Me campaign focuses on personal storytelling and sharing of lived experiences to encourage conversations around mental health in the workplace.
Learn More: www.communitybusiness.org
In order to promote inclusion, the creation of diverse workplaces is vital and although conversations are well underway in regard to many diversity dimensions, discussions around Neurodiversity are still in their infancy. Global estimates predict that neurodiverse conditions affect one in eight people. From a workplace perspective, this translates to more than one in every ten job applicants, employees or clients. Collective effort is required from multiple corporates to not only set a precedent in initiating conversations around Neurodiversity but also in extending D&I initiatives to fully encompass all neurological differences, especially during the processes of hiring, training and retaining neurodiverse talent.
Read More: bit.ly/3ogXkzC
Having joined Community Business in April, my first introduction to the company and the members/clients of this organisation through our conference “What’s Race Got to Do with It?.” We spent three days attempting to narrow down what race and racial discrimination consisted of in Asia, and how we should approach it individually and within organisations. We walked through our research which demonstrated that this is a priority – 81% of 2000+ employees surveyed highlighted that they expect organisations to address it internally and externally. While there were a lot of great takeaways from this conference, do you know what the biggest was for me?
Read more: https://www.communitybusiness.org/latest-news-publications/we-cannot-be-afraid-talk-about-race
Welcome to the This Is Me in Asia Podcast Series brought to you by Community Business and in partnership with Bloomberg and the Lord Mayor’s Appeal. This storytelling campaign aims to normalise mental health conversations in the workplace and tackle the stigma associated with mental health conditions and disability.
This is Me was first pioneered by Barclays in the UK in 2014 and is now led by the Lord Mayor's Appeal in London. Community Business first introduced the campaign to Asia in 2019.
The This is Me campaign focuses on personal storytelling and sharing of lived experiences to encourage conversations around mental health in the workplace. In this first episode, we bring you Javid's story. Javid shares candidly with us the value of empathy and non-judgmental listening and discusses how such traits can be applied in a workplace environment. He also touches upon the social pressures a man faces in society and how he dealt with these situations.
Hear first hand from Javid by listening to the podcast now.
Learn More: www.communitybusiness.org
With the COVID-19 pandemic overwhelming media, policy and governmental resources and the prominence of online work and communication, many in the transgender community have voiced the crucial need to reconnect face to face. The largely online environment of the last two years has left people feeling more isolated and vulnerable than ever before. For those who feel uncomfortable using online platforms, worries for mental health repercussions are exacerbated. This is particularly prominent from a workplace perspective, as employees embark on their second year of working from home, the line between work and home life is becoming increasingly blurred, bringing with it detrimental mental health consequences.
Read More - bit.ly/3IQxudH
It was in my early teenage years that I first listened to Sting’s “Englishman in New York” and the lyrics chimed a sentiment that was all too familiar for me - the need to belong, to be accepted and to be valued in places that I visited, lived or called my own. For me, this was the need to fit into my own culture, be part of an insider group of kids at school or be able to relate to my cousins or friends in their pursuits in life. As the years went by, I realised that my life continued to echo the same sentiment as I started working and in true sense, I felt like a ‘legal alien’ in another place I called my own; my workplace. I felt deep down, I did not belong and fitting in was a flex.
Read More -- https://bit.ly/3llLEL2
It was in my early teenage years that I first listened to Sting’s “Englishman in New York” and the lyrics chimed a sentiment that was all too familiar for me - the need to belong, to be accepted and to be valued in places that I visited, lived or called my own. For me, this was the need to fit into my own culture, be part of an insider group of kids at school or be able to relate to my cousins or friends in their pursuits in life. As the years went by, I realised that my life continued to echo the same sentiment as I started working and in true sense, I felt like a ‘legal alien’ in another place I called my own; my workplace. I felt deep down, I did not belong and fitting in was a flex.
In recent years we have seen the global narrative around women’s advancement, protection and equality accelerate. Women’s wellbeing and security is being placed at the forefront of public debate and corporations must ensure that they are not excluded from these conversations. In marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 24 November we would like to take this opportunity to explore the implications of gender (and all forms of) violence, harassment and assault in and around organisations in Asia, and encourage them to foster an inclusive culture where all staff feel comfortable, safe and productive.
Learn More - https://bit.ly/3EKLZOB
When I was clinically diagnosed with severe Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), it was so debilitating that I was bed-ridden and unable to lead a normal life. I was told by my psychiatrist that there was a chance I could never return to work. It was devastating because I was young with a whole life ahead of me.
Women face different challenges on their health and wellbeing issues at different stages of their lives - from reproductive health and gynaecological conditions to the fatigue caused by care responsibilities and in unfortunate case, domestic abuse. Despite many women struggling with these issues, most of them keep it in silence as these topics are seen as taboo in society and the workplace, especially in Asia. Such silence might adversely affect women’s mental health, as well as their workplace performance.
Read More - https://bit.ly/3F7vb5s
Considerable attention is being given to many aspects of the diversity and inclusion agenda, including gender, generations, disability and even sexual orientation and gender identity. However, few companies to date have broached the evidently ‘taboo’ subject of religion. Yet religion is such a central part of identity, particularly in markets in Asia, most notably India and Singapore, that it could be argued that any discussion regarding diversity and inclusion in the workplace that does not reference religion, is incomplete.
Organisations may understandably be nervous when openly tackling the sensitive issues that are often associated with this topic. However, not talking about them does not mean they do not exist, nor that their impact is insignificant. Given the strong affiliations that religious identity can create, few can deny that bias and discrimination on the grounds of religion exists in organisations, often negatively impacting organisational productivity, team cohesiveness and even individual employee wellbeing.
Read More - https://bit.ly/3DtAFqh
The pandemic brought mental health challenges to everybody's doorstep. We've known that our mental health is critical to our overall wellbeing for a long time, even before the pandemic, with the WHO estimating that depression affects about 300 million people worldwide. This time with extended lockdowns, quarantine and travel restrictions establishing an entirely new way of living, we have all experienced poor mental health at some point or throughout.
Read More: https://bit.ly/3ipuZFb
Organisations with an international presence often talk about their ‘global’ approach to diversity and inclusion (D&I) and how they ensure that programmes are relevant wherever they are implemented. However, despite great efforts, a common source of frustration from individuals tasked to drive D&I in Asia is the superficial nature of these localisation attempts.
One of the business drivers for diversity and inclusion is its capacity to raise an organisation’s competitive advantage, particularly in terms of enhancing creativity and innovation. The rationale is clear- to create a diverse workforce where people are able to express themselves, to contribute, challenge, collaborate, co-create and most importantly to innovate. This highlights the need for two ingredients crucial to enabling diversity of thought: diverse people and an inclusive environment.
Read More - https://bit.ly/3h50Ry7
In January of 2021, Community Business launched its pilot 9-month LGBT+ Mentoring Programme with a cohort of 42 participants including 21 Mentee and Mentor pairs. The programme consists of monthly professional development sessions, monthly check-ins between Mentees and Mentors and group networking sessions. -- Read More: https://bit.ly/3yVILFW
Last year, Community Business published an IMPACTxAsia blog piece on emotional intelligence as an essential skill for creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. In that piece, I argued that “emotional intelligence will work as a lubricant to help people work together smoothly, not only facilitating the better management of feelings, but also an acute perception and acknowledgement of other’s feelings.” This speaks to the critical role of emotional intelligence in managing emotions at the personal level, as well as at an interpersonal level, such as in a team setting. What needs further exploration is how emotional intelligence helps team members of diverse backgrounds, and/or thinking styles, work together. In this follow-up piece, I propose that emotional intelligence plays a critical role in building psychological safety and enhancing inclusivity within a team.
Read More - https://bit.ly/3b7toQh
Community Business works with organisations to help them better reach their goals around responsible and inclusive practices. A portion of that, when it comes to the LGBT+ programmes, includes advocating for and raising the voices of various community members and making sure they can access an equitable working life. Sometimes this means being a first stop for questions, so that when allies meet with another member of the community, they already have a base line understanding of appropriate behaviours and how to effectively support the community. By creating a safe space for allies to be to ask questions, the hope is that they come away with a deeper understanding of the LGBT+ community and may have the tools to avoid common mistakes.
Read More -- https://bit.ly/3gMxb9b
At every stage of their personal (and therefore working) lives, women face changes and challenges that are unique to them and poorly understood or catered for by men and - more often than not - male-dominated or designed workplaces. Across the globe, but particularly in Asia, these topics are rarely discussed and seen as shameful or taboo to be tackled in an open forum. This silence, misunderstanding and lack of resources to cater to a female workforce is contributing to the leaking pipeline of female talent and posing an additional barrier to women’s advancement in the workplace. While there have been some moves on the global stage to engage with the conversation about women’s health and the specific challenges that they face, more could be done to bring these topics to Asia and localise the discussion to service our workplaces and the nuances that women in our key markets face.
Learn More: https://bit.ly/387M7JU
Diversity and inclusion (D&I) initiatives in corporates in Asia have been viewed in the past as a nice to have. However, things have changed in 2020. Spurred by the racial justice movement in the United States, increasing numbers of companies in Asia are starting to realise the importance and benefits of a diverse workforce to a sustainable business.
Despite this realisation, a diverse workforce is just one part of the equation; inclusivity is just as critical. Without inclusion, a diverse workforce could become multiple cliques that could potentially hurt team dynamics. To facilitate successful diverse and inclusive team dynamics, emotional intelligence is a key skill to build.
Read More -- https://bit.ly/3oZQjT2
Is it time for gender quotas on boards in Hong Kong? Sadly, this question is worth asking as progress in board diversity continues to stall on the Hang Seng Index. As of July 2020, women occupy only 13.7% of board seats – the same level as in 2018.
Contrast Hong Kong with other advanced economies in Asia, and we see a widening gap. In Singapore, 16.2% female participation was recorded on the largest 100 primary-listed companies on the Singapore Exchange by the end of last year, up by 1% in 2018. In India, 17% of board seats in Nifty 500 companies were filled by women as of March 2020, increasing by 3% compared to two years ago.
Read more -- https://bit.ly/2JbmeiJ
Our world changed overnight with the coronavirus outbreak. The rising death toll, combined with the economic impact to businesses of all sizes has shaken people to their core.
The outbreak has also upended traditional work practices, including the expectations of what role a company should play in wider society during the pandemic. In August 2019, the Business Roundtable released a statement endorsing the notion that businesses are responsible not only for shareholders but also for the benefits of stakeholders such as employees and customers.
The 2020 Edelman Trust Barometer Spring Update further highlighted statistics which showed that the general population put their trust in both the Government and businesses to act in solving the global health crisis. Amidst the crisis, workplaces and organisations are being seen as part of the collective effort to promote better health among their workforces.
Read More - https://bit.ly/343CdWQ
Beyond COVID-19: Building a Workplace for Caregivers in Asia The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the challenge of juggling work and caregiving. With school closures and lockdowns, many people are busy caring for loved ones while trying to get work done at home. While these disruptions from the pandemic may be temporary, the quest to balance family and professional commitments is here to stay. Even if we take the pandemic out of the equation, there are still many reasons why companies would be well advised to prioritise supporting caregivers in their corporate agenda. In our latest research, we examine the drivers and opportunities in the context of Asia.
Read More: https://bit.ly/3383qYb
The negativity, worry and uncertainty sweeping the globe at the moment is undeniably impacting our interactions at work and at home. With workforces unsure of what their job security may look like in the long-term, it falls to the responsible leader to steer their organisation with integrity, mindfulness and intentional listening in order to defuse tension and ensure productivity, wellbeing and morale remain high. Often overlooked however, is the power of gratitude to bind these traits together. Showing appreciation for your team is the foundation of a positive outlook and building a productive team. Gratitude as an emotion blocks negativity: you cannot, for example feel grateful and envious at the same time. Therefore by removing a pessimistic outlook from your leadership style and instead focusing on the wins and appreciating your teams value, you will open the gateway to breeding kindness, and allow space for mindful and intentional leadership.
Read More - https://bit.ly/3i7DsKb
Are Open-Plan Offices Ruining Your Inclusion Efforts? Picture this – you are at your desk, filed alongside several others. You open your email to provide critical feedback on a time-sensitive project, as your colleagues behind choose this very moment to discuss their weekend plans. You plug in your headphones to tune them out but as you do, you spot your neighbour from the corner of your eye, waving, trying to get your attention. They need you for five minutes to sign off on something. 45 minutes later, you are left staring at the first line in the email you started, “I just thought of another way to approach this problem”. Unable to remember what this idea was, you are left feeling stuck and unproductive.
Read More - https://bit.ly/3088eMV
We are all guilty of keeping one eye (or ear) on a colleague and the other on our phones when in a meeting or continuing to draft an email as a colleague steps over to our desk with a question. Even in researching around this topic I am ashamed to admit that I continued to peruse articles while a colleague asked me a question – which I then needed to return to 30 minutes later to clarify as I had not retained any of what she said. It turns out I am not alone: according to research from the University of Missouri, we are on the whole, poor and inefficient listeners. In fact, the average person retains between 25% and 50% of what they hear! Clearly, passive or distracted listening is bad for productivity but it is also bad for workplace morale – a team that feels unheard or undervalued will not work cohesively and it falls to the responsible leader to pave the way for creating an inclusive workplace where all employees feel they are (and actually are) heard.
Read More - https://bit.ly/3eQAw3u
The link between physical and emotional wellbeing is being increasingly recognised and discussed.
Evolving from a singular narrative that promotes exercise to reduce stress, it is encouraging to see topics that were once overlooked such as sleep, mindfulness and gut health is included in the conversation along with more established markers of health such as cardiovascular fitness and weight.
Gut health, in particular, is having its moment in the spotlight, with recent research suggesting that a healthy gut microbiome could hold the key to wider physical and mental wellbeing.
Read More - https://bit.ly/36U0Czc
To commemorate IDAHOTB (International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia - 17 May 2020) and LGBT+ Pride Month in June, Community Business has collated an LGBT+ Dictionary to help our supporters and allies understand and use people’s correct terminology respectfully and confidently.
Self-identification and pride are powerful tools and we want to encourage our community to equip themselves with the vocabulary to celebrate and support each other. Over the next few weeks, we will be sharing a selection of terms related to and describing the LGBT+ community – some of these might be old friends and well-known, while others may be more recently coined or new to your parlance - the team at Community Business have certainly enjoyed arming ourselves with this robust dictionary and brushing up on our technical knowledge.
We built our glossary by referencing the Fenway Institute LGBT+ Glossary, as well as the University of Massachusetts Amherst - Stonewall Center LGBTQIA+ Terminology Handout. Our campaign is peppered with the rare Hong Kong Pink Dolphin – unique in colour and a symbol of hope for the future. In each graphic, our chosen mascot plays with a ball that incorporates the relevant pride flag – so even if the terminology is familiar to you, perhaps you’ll learn something new about its visual identity.
To Learn More -- https://bit.ly/3frqSVp
©2020 Community Business Limited. All rights reserved.
In a very timely move, the Mental Health Foundation announced recently that it was changing the theme of Mental Health Awareness Week (18 – 24 May 2020) from sleep to kindness to respond to the coronavirus outbreak.
As pundits and politicians around the world speculate about how long social distancing and virtual working will need to continue, we have seen daily acts of kindness – both on a personal and professional level – taking hold of global conversations.
The advent of technology means that most people can remain connected with family, friends and colleagues despite isolation measures and as a result, we have seen people taking the time to check-in meaningfully with those they might usually only text or email.
Read More - https://bit.ly/35jtm3Q
Over the last few months, the world has changed significantly and our societies and businesses are learning to cope with ‘the new normal’ – whatever that might be – for the foreseeable future. While our governments struggle to implement safety measures to combat the spread of COVID-19 while ensuring economies and livelihoods are kept afloat, a certain duty of care has defaulted to the business community and many of us are looking to our senior management for direction and reassurance.
Read More -https://bit.ly/3azTadM
In driving gender equality, who gets left out of the conversation? In 2014, it was men according to UN Women. As the spokesperson of its HeForShe campaign, Emma Watson called on men to advocate for gender equality, as she asked, "How can we affect change in the world when only half of it is invited or feels welcome to participate in the conversation?" It is important to include men in the movement because gender equality matters to them, too. As she argued, men can be trapped by gender roles and expectations as much as women do. But with their male privilege, they can help women get their voices heard. Their participation can take different forms, be it calling out gender biases at work or sharing parental responsibilities at home.
Learn More - https://bit.ly/2Tqydf7
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website
Building Responsible Leadership Ep. 1 | Tackling Workplace Mental Health Through Virtual Reality
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website.
We are grateful to Sean Gu from AudioLabHK for their production support.
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website.
We are grateful to Sean Gu from AudioLabHK for their production support.
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website.
We are grateful to Sean Gu from AudioLabHK for their production support.
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website.
We are grateful to Sean Gu from AudioLabHK for their production support.
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website.
We are grateful to Sean Gu from AudioLabHK for their production support.
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website.
We are grateful to Sean Gu from AudioLabHK for their production support.
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website.
We are grateful to Sean Gu from AudioLabHK for their production support.
This opinion piece forms part of our IMPACTxAsia blog series and was originally published on the Community Business website.
We are grateful to Sean Gu from AudioLabHK for their production support.
Professor Roy Chua of Singapore Management University is known for his research on social processes in business organisations, particularly on how cultural diversity in a globalised workplace impacts creativity and innovation. He talks us through the key challenges that Asian talent face in terms of creativity and innovation. We also talk tactics: how can companies operating in Asia think more strategically around increasing creativity and innovation considering and capitalising on the cultural dynamics in Asia.
Futurist, Margaret Regan, looks at how closely current trends have reflected her predictions as well as where she expects the fast-changing nature of the workplace and the marketplace to lead us. She further explores the future of diversity and inclusion and its implications for business leaders and D&I professionals.
Through the tireless work of people like Michael Kaufman, gender equity has become more than just a women's issue. In this interview, we talk to Michael about what inspired him to start the White Ribbon Campaign, and its impact and evolution in the past three decades. We also discuss current gender equity movements, such as #MeToo, and what companies and individuals, men in particular, can do next to address this. Michael Kaufman is a co-founder of White Ribbon Campaign, the largest effort in the world of men working to end violence against women. He is a public speaker, writer and consultant whose innovative approaches to engage men and boys in promoting gender equity and transforming men's lives over the last three decades.
https://www.communitybusiness.org/latest-news-publications/episode-8-engaging-men-promote-gender-equity ©2019 Community Business Limited. All rights reserved.
In this episode, we explore Connie Wong's interactive 'live case study' as a tool for expanding conversations and building awareness around D&I. We also learn more about unconscious bias and how training to mitigate biases, particularly around cultural differences, has evolved over the years. Connie is Managing Director of CSW Associate Inc., the leading global consulting firm with teams based in over 25 countries focusing on diversity and inclusion in today's workforce.
In today's globalised marketplace, it is important to develop leaders who have a truly global mindset – which may be more Asia-focused and less Western-centric than in the past. Tom Verghese, executive cultural coach and author of ‘The Invisible Elephant: Exploring Cultural Awareness’, shares the nuanced tools and methods he has developed over the years to build dynamic leadership styles for Asian leaders.
What is behavioural change? How do you implement it, and how do you ensure the change is long-lasting? In this episode, we talk tactics with Gulnar Vaswani who shares her tips and insights into how global dynamics affect cultures and the workplace. Gulnar Vaswani works across Asia as a talent management strategist, an advisor and an enabler. She is re-imagining the image of leaders in the 21st Century. She is passionate about helping leaders understand and embrace inclusiveness across cultural dynamics and diversity.
Diversity and Inclusion must, at its core, recognise the siloed issues that individuals face based on their race, culture, nationality, or gender. In this hard hitting podcast, Suzanne Price tackles the key challenges that Asians face, including double image management, female leadership and Asian leadership, unconscious bias and resilience. The conversation will also cover the importance of mental health and its role in the modern workplace.
Disability in Asia, in particular issues around mental health, is emerging as a key focus area for employers. In this episode, Nadine Vogel, founder and CEO of Springboard Consulting, a global organisation that aims to successfully mainstream disability in a global workforce, workplace and marketplace and well known for the Disability Matters Conference & Awards. We also learn more about how disability particularly in Asia, has evolved over the years.
Shubha Chacko, Executive Director of Solidarity Foundation, joins us for our second podcast instalment, where we discuss the concept of transgender inclusion and explore how companies can adapt to overcome resistance to sexual minority inclusion. The Solidarity Foundation provides support to sex workers and sexual minorities in India. Shubha draws on her years of experience in this space to highlight the importance of intersectionality when talking about sexual minority inclusion strategies and encourages us to harness the recent momentum around transgender inclusion awareness to advocate for change and progress.
The first podcast in our DIAN Decade Thought Leadership Podcast Series features an in-depth discussion with Jane Hyun. Jane is an executive coach, leadership strategist, author of Breaking the Bamboo Ceiling and co-author of Flex. Learn how the idea of the 'Bamboo Ceiling' sparked conversations, from North America to Asia, over the past decade. Hear Jane’s insights on how organisations and today’s global leaders can ‘flex’ and more effectively manage and lead a multicultural workforce.