Community Business

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!

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 Edmund 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: - The current state of healthcare access for LGBTQ+ individuals in Hong Kong - The importance of inclusive sexual health education - The impact of societal stigma on mental health and healthcare utilisation - 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: - The importance of peer support in mental health - The cultural challenges surrounding mental health discussions in Hong Kong - The alarming rise in suicide rates and the factors contributing to this crisis - 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: https://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+ athletes Learn 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:

"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 Workers Ahead 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:

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:

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:

"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:

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:

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:

“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:

“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:

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 Business 2. Attracting and Retaining Top Talent 3. Walking the Talk as a Responsible Employer Learn 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: 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: https://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: https://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: https://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