People & Purpose Theatre
People & Purpose Theatre
Day 1 – Thursday 12 Sept AM
Rethinking Shared Value
Rethinking Shared Value is an interactive learning experience presented by Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong. Participants will deepen their understanding of shared value, a business strategy that reinvents value creation and aligns profit and purpose. We will explore how social and environmental impact can drive financial value, and how partnerships across private, public, and civil sectors play a key role in creating shared value. Get ready to challenge business as usual and unlock new possibilities for changemakers across sectors to amplify their impact.
In partnership with
Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong
Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong (SVIHK) is a non-profit organisation driving the purpose-led business movement in Hong Kong and China. We are funded by leading companies to accelerate shared value creation by establishing long-lasting and profitable business models while addressing unmet societal needs. Our dedicated programmes and vivid ecosystem bring unlikely partnerships that simultaneously create economic and social value.
11:00 – 11:05
Supported by
Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong
Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong (SVIHK) is a non-profit organisation driving the purpose-led business movement in Hong Kong and China. We are funded by leading companies to accelerate shared value creation by establishing long-lasting and profitable business models while addressing unmet societal needs. Our dedicated programmes and vivid ecosystem bring unlikely partnerships that simultaneously create economic and social value.
11:15 – 12:05
This session aims to delve into the emerging trends of sustainable partnerships and collaborative innovation in the corporate world. It will provide insights into the importance of cross-sector collaboration, the benefits of unlikely partnerships, and the role of individuals in driving sustainable change.
Learnings:
- What is the importance of sustainable partnerships in addressing sustainability challenges?
- What are some examples of unlikely partnerships between local NGOs and MNCs in the context of sustainability?
- How can non-profits, grassroots social enterprises, startups and big companies cross-fertilise to ensure effective collaborations?
Post-event Actions:
- Know better and engage with your company’s stakeholders – the community within you operate; the organisations who intersects with your business.
- Foster a culture of curiosity and openness to allow partnerships beyond the usual company’s ecosystem
- Connect with organisations or platforms that nurture a vivid ecosystem of partners
Supported by
Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong
Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong (SVIHK) is a non-profit organisation driving the purpose-led business movement in Hong Kong and China. We are funded by leading companies to accelerate shared value creation by establishing long-lasting and profitable business models while addressing unmet societal needs. Our dedicated programmes and vivid ecosystem bring unlikely partnerships that simultaneously create economic and social value.
12:05 – 12:55
Are you eager to align profit with purpose, but you don’t know where to start? Wondering how to mobilise your organisation and overcome roadblocks to turn your ideas into concrete impact? Join us for an enlightening session where business case presenters unveil the behind-the-scenes from initiatives that have successfully embraced shared value principles in Hong Kong. This is your chance to gain practical knowledge and inspiration from real-life examples of the transformative power of shared value. Join us as we explore innovative strategies and approaches that empower you to make a lasting difference.
Learnings:
- What are the key factors that enable shared value success?
- What are the challenges on the shared value journey and how to overcome those?
Post-event Actions:
- Be able to identify and seize opportunities at the intersection of your business expertise and user needs
- Articulate the business case, and craft compelling pilot programs
- Learn the art of building strong and collaborative partner networks that ensure sustainability and long-term impact
Supported by
Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong
Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong (SVIHK) is a non-profit organisation driving the purpose-led business movement in Hong Kong and China. We are funded by leading companies to accelerate shared value creation by establishing long-lasting and profitable business models while addressing unmet societal needs. Our dedicated programmes and vivid ecosystem bring unlikely partnerships that simultaneously create economic and social value.
12:55 – 13:45
Sustainably leading an organisation or a project requires a delicate balance: it entails aligning financial viability with ecological and social stewardship, while harmonising today’s needs with tomorrow’s imperatives. Success hinges on the deep comprehension of our roles—what they entail and how we should fulfill them. In this session, our speakers explore the practical side of sustainability and demonstrate how the actual experience of sustainability differs from official linear stories.
Learnings:
- How can embracing the power of purpose convert vision into tangible outcomes and align teams across the company?
- What are the systems thinking approach, and how does it contribute to a deeper understanding of the interdependencies and trade-offs involved in sustainability decision-making?
Post-event Actions:
- Transform corporate purpose into a sustainability key driver
- Create a culture fostering a sustainability mindset
- Change the perspective from cost to opportunity by adopting a shared value strategy
Supported by
Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong
Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong (SVIHK) is a non-profit organisation driving the purpose-led business movement in Hong Kong and China. We are funded by leading companies to accelerate shared value creation by establishing long-lasting and profitable business models while addressing unmet societal needs. Our dedicated programmes and vivid ecosystem bring unlikely partnerships that simultaneously create economic and social value.
Day 1 – Thursday 12 Sept PM
Rethinking Workforce Transformation
In today’s business world, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) has power far beyond buzzwords. In addition to being the right thing to do from a moral perspective, there is also a compelling business case for launching DEI programmes in our workplace.
Key discussions in Rethinking Workforce Transformation will address DEI as a business and communication strategy, and why creating a culture of respect and belonging in which all employees feel empowered to contribute their best will only serve to benefit our organisations in the long term.
We will also explore the sustainability skills gap as it relates to competence greenwashing.
In partnership with
The British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
The Chamber is one of Hong Kong’s biggest and most active independent international business organisations representing a broad span of British, Hong Kong and international companies doing business in, with, or through Hong Kong.
The Chamber encourages diversity in its membership and activities and has a 1,000 members from the biggest multinationals through to a broad range of medium and smaller companies and start-ups. The Chamber’s aim is to help our members grow their business, and promote and represent their business interests by providing representation and advocacy; networking and brand exposure; as well as information and insight.
14:45 – 14:50
Supported by
The British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
The Chamber is one of Hong Kong’s biggest and most active independent international business organisations representing a broad span of British, Hong Kong and international companies doing business in, with, or through Hong Kong.
The Chamber encourages diversity in its membership and activities and has a 1,000 members from the biggest multinationals through to a broad range of medium and smaller companies and start-ups. The Chamber’s aim is to help our members grow their business, and promote and represent their business interests by providing representation and advocacy; networking and brand exposure; as well as information and insight.
15:00 – 15:50
This panel aims to unpack strategies for creating safety and inclusivity in the workplace, addressing key challenges and sharing actionable insights. Our expert speakers will discuss the importance of diverse representation, equitable policies, and proactive measures to mitigate discrimination and harassment. Attendees will gain practical guidance on cultivating a culture of respect and support within their organisations.
Speakers
Moderator
Kirti Lad
Founder & Executive Director
Meraki Executive Search & Consulting
Kirti Lad
Meraki Executive Search & Consulting
Founder & Executive Director
Kirti is Founder and Executive Director of Meraki Executive Search & Consulting Limited.
Meraki has a very clear strategy and purpose, to increase and improve female participation in the workforce at the most senior levels.
Kirti’s expertise is in leadership hiring and development of both Non-Executives and Executives across the Asia Pacific region. Kirti is a Physics & Chemistry graduate from University College London and has worked in Executive Search and Leadership Consulting for over 20 years.
Kirti is the pioneer behind the Women’s Directorship Programme, a joint-venture with The University of Hong Kong Business School. Kirti also leads the Meraki Network, an Executive Women’s network in the region, is a regular speaker and contributor to conferences and media relating to gender diversity in Asia and is an active member of the Women in Business Committee at the British Chamber in Hong Kong.
Kirti was named as one of the Global Top 50 Diversity Professionals in Industry by the Economist Magazine over multiple years and awarded AmCham’s Women of Influence, Champion for Women award in 2024.
Kirti is the mother to two amazing children who have also found their purpose at such a young age by representing HK at the Children’s General Assembly in Billund.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
Hong Kong has an opportunity to lead in Asia in terms of Women on Boards. The HKEX is the only exchange in the world to mandate the removal of all male boards.
HK issuers who choose to hire more than the required one female INED will benefit significantly from the amazing and diverse female talents we have in Hong Kong. In the UK for example, “one and done” appointment of female INED’s had a negligible impact on company performance. In the UK, companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 15% more likely to outperform their industry peers. This research also evidenced that average employee productivity growth is higher for companies that employ three or more women at board level, compared to those that have just a single female director or none at all.
This demonstrates companies with greater female representation at board level are not only able to generate higher levels of productivity and profits, as measured by returns on equity, but also higher dividend payouts to investors. Perfect reason to hire more women on boards.
Donna Buckland
Senior Director, Sustainability
Prudential plc
Donna Buckland
Prudential plc
Senior Director, Sustainability
Donna is Senior Director, Sustainability Strategy & Operation, having appointed on 1 April 2024. Donna is part of the Prudential plc’s Sustainability team where her key responsibilities include strategic transformation of the Group’s sustainability priorities.
With over 20 years of experience, Donna joined Prudential in 2014 with focus on transformation & governance. Since 2022, she serves as a Member of the Board and Audit Committee Member for Prudential Laos.
Prior to joining Prudential, she spent over a decade in various finance management positions in major Australasian financial service companies. Donna is a Chartered Accountant where she is the Vice Chair for Hong Kong Council of Chartered Accountant Australia & New Zealand, and also Co-Chair of its ESG Committee. She is also the Strategy Chair for UNESCO Hong Kong Association GPC since 2019 and appointed as a member of the Business Advisory committee for Hong Kong Baptist University in 2022.
Donna holds a Global MBA from the University of Manchester and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Auckland and University of Otago. She received further executive education from the Oxford Saïd Business School and Cambridge Judge Business School.
David Lee
Associate Professor
University of Hong Kong Business School
David Lee
University of Hong Kong Business School
Associate Professor
David S. Lee is an award-winning teacher at HKU Business School active in the areas of ethics, fintech, leadership, and corporate governance.
Prior to joining HKU, David worked in finance and also has experience as a lawyer, in consulting, and working with entrepreneurial ventures. He routinely engages, advises, and works with global organizations, start-ups, and government entities. He is currently engaged in a variety of book and research projects, and his commentary and writing regularly appear in a variety of publications, including the Harvard Business Review.
David earned his J.D. from UCLA School of Law, master’s degrees from the London School of Economics and Political Science and Harvard University, completed post-graduate training at Cambridge, and his B.A. from Brigham Young University.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
- Meaningful goals and clear, effective policies related to waste management, recycling, and reuse policies
- Greater commitment to decarbonization, especially in the area of green transport, and overall improvements to more efficient and community friendly transportation management
Supported by
The British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
The Chamber is one of Hong Kong’s biggest and most active independent international business organisations representing a broad span of British, Hong Kong and international companies doing business in, with, or through Hong Kong.
The Chamber encourages diversity in its membership and activities and has a 1,000 members from the biggest multinationals through to a broad range of medium and smaller companies and start-ups. The Chamber’s aim is to help our members grow their business, and promote and represent their business interests by providing representation and advocacy; networking and brand exposure; as well as information and insight.
15:50 – 16:40
According to a Reuters study in 2022, the number of Chief Sustainability Officers has more than tripled since 2021. And here in APAC, the number of green jobs has risen by over 30% in the last five years. Unfortunately, the skills and personnel needed to do these key jobs has not kept pace with demand, and we are experiencing global shortage of ESG talent and skills available globally to deliver on the green transition needed. This is leading to more executive playing up their knowledge, skills and experience on ESG and sustainability, a practice coined as “competence greenwashing.
Learnings:
- Why competence greenwashing is a problem.
- Which industries are fudging ESG skills?
- What skills and competencies do people working in ESG need?
- What is the future of ESG talent in Asia and in Hong Kong?
Supported by
The British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
The Chamber is one of Hong Kong’s biggest and most active independent international business organisations representing a broad span of British, Hong Kong and international companies doing business in, with, or through Hong Kong.
The Chamber encourages diversity in its membership and activities and has a 1,000 members from the biggest multinationals through to a broad range of medium and smaller companies and start-ups. The Chamber’s aim is to help our members grow their business, and promote and represent their business interests by providing representation and advocacy; networking and brand exposure; as well as information and insight.
16:40 – 17:30
In today’s dynamic work environment, organisations are experiencing an unprecedented convergence of multiple generations in the workplace. From seasoned Baby Boomers to the tech-savvy Generation Z, each group brings its unique set of values, work habits, and expectations. This panel discussion will delve into the complexities of managing a multi-generational workforce, focusing on communication, technology adaptation, workplace expectations, and knowledge transfer. Join us as we discuss the future of work and how to capitalise on the generational diversity within our organisations.
Supported by
The British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
The Chamber is one of Hong Kong’s biggest and most active independent international business organisations representing a broad span of British, Hong Kong and international companies doing business in, with, or through Hong Kong.
The Chamber encourages diversity in its membership and activities and has a 1,000 members from the biggest multinationals through to a broad range of medium and smaller companies and start-ups. The Chamber’s aim is to help our members grow their business, and promote and represent their business interests by providing representation and advocacy; networking and brand exposure; as well as information and insight.
Day 2 – Friday 13 Sept AM
Rethinking Marketing & Communications
In an era where conscious consumerism and environmental awareness are paramount, the Rethinking Marketing & Communications program aims to equip business delegates with innovative strategies.
Join us to discover how to align organizational values with employee engagement, fostering a brand that resonates with purpose. As well as learn effective communication techniques to drive positive impact, engaging consumers as partners in sustainable transformation. Finally, we will explore global perspectives, leveraging marketing and communications to establish Hong Kong as a hub for sustainable practices.
Through three engaging sessions, participants will be explore, inspire and empower industry leaders to champion sustainable marketing and communications, shaping a brighter future for businesses and our planet.
In partnership with
PRHK
PRHK is a modern and forward-looking industry organisation for PR and communications professionals in Hong Kong. It represents, champions, promotes and grows the Hong Kong public relations and communications industry, its professionals, its affiliates, its academic institutions and their students.
10:30 – 10:35
Supported by
PRHK
PRHK is a modern and forward-looking industry organisation for PR and communications professionals in Hong Kong. It represents, champions, promotes and grows the Hong Kong public relations and communications industry, its professionals, its affiliates, its academic institutions and their students.
10:45 – 11:35
There is growing evidence that employees increasingly take into account a prospective employer’s ESG credentials. Given this, sustainability and socially responsibility have moved into the limelight as key weapons in talent acquisition and retention so how do organisations build a brand that makes them great places to work and which can contribute positively? Our panel discussion will look at key aspects, arming attendees with the practical information they need.
Learnings:
- Do you think a sustainable / socially responsible brand is important? Why do you think that?
- How do you build a sustainable and socially responsible employee brand?
- Which other parts of the organisation do you need to engage with to ensure that you can deliver a brand that is authentic? How can you go about that engagement?
- What examples can you give where you have seen those practices put into place?
- What advice would you give others trying to build brands that appeal to employees and the talent pool?
Post-Event Actions:
- Insight on how to build a brand that is environmentally and socially responsible
- Strategies to engage with other parts of the business to build brands that are authentic in their ESG ambitions
Supported by
PRHK
PRHK is a modern and forward-looking industry organisation for PR and communications professionals in Hong Kong. It represents, champions, promotes and grows the Hong Kong public relations and communications industry, its professionals, its affiliates, its academic institutions and their students.
11:35 – 12:25
In today’s dynamic marketplace, effective communication with consumers is not just about conveying messages from the brand, but also about fostering collaboration and co-creation. In this session, we will explore the power of engaging with consumers as active participants in driving change.
We will delve into strategies and best practices for building meaningful connections, leveraging different mediums, and utilizing consumer insights to co-create innovative solutions. By understanding the evolving needs and preferences of consumers, organizations can establish authentic dialogues that inspire loyalty and drive positive societal impact.
Join us to discover practical techniques and examples that demonstrate how effective communication can transform consumers into valuable co-creators of change.
Learnings:
- The role of organizations and brands in fostering a collaborative dialogue with consumers to co-create meaningful change
- Challenges and opportunities in the process
- Best practices and examples of how this is put into practice
Post-Event Actions:
- Gain insights on how collaborative dialogues with consumers can create positive impact for the brand, both on environmental and social levels
- Explore the different formats and mediums in engaging consumers to co-create change
Supported by
PRHK
PRHK is a modern and forward-looking industry organisation for PR and communications professionals in Hong Kong. It represents, champions, promotes and grows the Hong Kong public relations and communications industry, its professionals, its affiliates, its academic institutions and their students.
12:25 – 13:15
Supported by
PRHK
PRHK is a modern and forward-looking industry organisation for PR and communications professionals in Hong Kong. It represents, champions, promotes and grows the Hong Kong public relations and communications industry, its professionals, its affiliates, its academic institutions and their students.
Day 2 – Friday 13 Sept PM
Rethinking Health & Wellbeing
The Rethinking Health & Wellbeing programme aims to bring together leaders, experts and professionals from various industries to explore the most pressing issues in the realm of health and wellbeing. By prioritizing employee well-being, embracing responsible practices in sports, andpursuing the innovation and social responsibility of food and nutrition, organisations can create supportive environments that foster holistic well-being and contribute to a sustainable and healthy future.
In partnership with
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service (HKCSS) is a statutory body established in 1947. Together with our Agency Members, we uphold social justice and equality in our mission to advance the well-being of the Hong Kong community. The HKCSS has over 510 Agency Members, with service units throughout Hong Kong, providing high-quality social services to those in need.
Our sustainability goals for 2024:
- Together We Co-create a Sustainable Society
- “S+ Summit cum Expo”: HKCSS organizes the largest summit and expo on social impact in Hong Kong
- Event Highlights: Global trends such as artificial intelligence, climate change, and the development of the Greater Bay Area and their implications for social services in Hong Kong.
- Over 140 exhibitors will showcase a diverse range of projects and collaboration opportunities including donations, volunteering opportunities, and social investment.
14:15 – 14:20
Supported by
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service (HKCSS) is a statutory body established in 1947. Together with our Agency Members, we uphold social justice and equality in our mission to advance the well-being of the Hong Kong community. The HKCSS has over 510 Agency Members, with service units throughout Hong Kong, providing high-quality social services to those in need.
Our sustainability goals for 2024:
- Together We Co-create a Sustainable Society
- “S+ Summit cum Expo”: HKCSS organizes the largest summit and expo on social impact in Hong Kong
- Event Highlights: Global trends such as artificial intelligence, climate change, and the development of the Greater Bay Area and their implications for social services in Hong Kong.
- Over 140 exhibitors will showcase a diverse range of projects and collaboration opportunities including donations, volunteering opportunities, and social investment.
14:30 – 15:10
Supported by
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service (HKCSS) is a statutory body established in 1947. Together with our Agency Members, we uphold social justice and equality in our mission to advance the well-being of the Hong Kong community. The HKCSS has over 510 Agency Members, with service units throughout Hong Kong, providing high-quality social services to those in need.
Our sustainability goals for 2024:
- Together We Co-create a Sustainable Society
- “S+ Summit cum Expo”: HKCSS organizes the largest summit and expo on social impact in Hong Kong
- Event Highlights: Global trends such as artificial intelligence, climate change, and the development of the Greater Bay Area and their implications for social services in Hong Kong.
- Over 140 exhibitors will showcase a diverse range of projects and collaboration opportunities including donations, volunteering opportunities, and social investment.
15:10 – 15:50
Supported by
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service (HKCSS) is a statutory body established in 1947. Together with our Agency Members, we uphold social justice and equality in our mission to advance the well-being of the Hong Kong community. The HKCSS has over 510 Agency Members, with service units throughout Hong Kong, providing high-quality social services to those in need.
Our sustainability goals for 2024:
- Together We Co-create a Sustainable Society
- “S+ Summit cum Expo”: HKCSS organizes the largest summit and expo on social impact in Hong Kong
- Event Highlights: Global trends such as artificial intelligence, climate change, and the development of the Greater Bay Area and their implications for social services in Hong Kong.
- Over 140 exhibitors will showcase a diverse range of projects and collaboration opportunities including donations, volunteering opportunities, and social investment.
15:50 – 16:30
Supported by
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service (HKCSS) is a statutory body established in 1947. Together with our Agency Members, we uphold social justice and equality in our mission to advance the well-being of the Hong Kong community. The HKCSS has over 510 Agency Members, with service units throughout Hong Kong, providing high-quality social services to those in need.
Our sustainability goals for 2024:
- Together We Co-create a Sustainable Society
- “S+ Summit cum Expo”: HKCSS organizes the largest summit and expo on social impact in Hong Kong
- Event Highlights: Global trends such as artificial intelligence, climate change, and the development of the Greater Bay Area and their implications for social services in Hong Kong.
- Over 140 exhibitors will showcase a diverse range of projects and collaboration opportunities including donations, volunteering opportunities, and social investment.
All sessions are subject to change.