People & Purpose Theatre
People & Purpose Theatre
Day 1 – Thursday 11 Sept AM
Rethinking Social Impact
This programme is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive meaningful social change through innovative approaches. Each session focuses on a unique aspect of social impact, fostering a comprehensive understanding of how local leaders, impact investing, shared value and cultural initiatives can work together to create sustainable solutions.
11:00 – 11:20
Supported by
ReThink Foundation
11:30 – 12:20
To explore how empowering young leaders can drive movements for social change, discussing strategies for training, supporting, and amplifying their voices. Participants will gain insights on fostering community-driven initiatives that address local issues effectively, with a focus on the importance of cross-sector collaboration.
Learnings
- Why is empowering young leaders essential for social change?
- What training and support systems can effectively empower young leaders?
- How can these challenges be overcome to ensure meaningful youth participation and leadership?
- What role does cross-sector collaboration play in empowering young leaders?
- What trends are shaping the future of youth leadership in social movements?
Post-Event Actions
- Identify and overcome barriers by conducting surveys and community forums to address challenges faced by youth in participating in social initiatives.
- Foster cross-sector collaboration by establishing partnerships with NGOs, government, and private sectors to enhance support for youth-led initiatives.
- Monitor emerging trends in youth leadership and social movements to inform future initiatives and training programs.
Supported by
BESGO, CUHK
BESGO, a program backed by CUHK Business School, aims to educate and inspire the next generation of change-makers on how social good, social innovation, and sustainable practices can shape businesses and society’s future. With activities like training workshops, talks, and real-world projects, BESGO helps deepen students’ understanding of social needs and sustainability issues. By connecting educators, business professionals, social innovators, and future change-makers, BESGO fosters collaboration and creates shared value towards building a better future for all.
Our sustainability goals for 2025:
- Increase the awareness and understanding of social and environmental issues among students and participants by providing educational resources, workshops, and field visits.
- Foster partnerships and collaborations with local and international organizations that align with BESGO’s mission and values, and promote sustainability and social good.
- Engage and empower students to take action and create positive social and environmental impacts through BESGO’s programs and activities, and provide opportunities for them to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world projects.
Our initiative in accelerating sustainable development in Hong Kong:
BESGO has organized various activities to promote social innovation, social good, and sustainable practices. In the past, we have designed and produced teaching and learning materials, conducted seminars and workshops, and facilitated visits to community and social enterprises. We also published feature articles and teaching cases, and presented at local and international conferences. These initiatives aim to raise awareness, deepen understanding, and provide opportunities for students to create real impact and foster collaboration for a better future.
12:20 – 13:10
This session explores the potential of impact investing to create shared value for communities, businesses and investors alike. It will provide insights into the interplay between profit and purpose, delve into emerging trends and highlight case studies where organisations have successfully aligned their business goals with societal needs.
Learnings
- How can you create win-win solutions through impact investing to address social and environmental challenges that are aligned with company objectives, while enhancing long-term competitiveness and financial returns?
- What is the role of partnerships and collaboration in scaling initiatives and leveraging collective resources to drive systemic change?
- What effective frameworks and tools can be used to make data-driven decisions that align business values and investment goals, ensuring accountability and transparency in shared value initiatives?
Post-Event Actions
- Define specific social or environmental goals and outline investment types that drive sustainable growth
- Identify impact investing opportunities compatible with corporate objectives that could enhance the organisation’s longer-term competitiveness
- Implement a system to measure and communicate the outcomes of impact investments and shared value initiatives, fostering accountability and transparency
Supported by
Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society
Established in 2013, the Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society (CAPS) is committed to improving the quantity and quality of philanthropic giving throughout Asia. Our mission is to improve the social investment sector in Asia by identifying and disseminating best practices, models, policies and strategies that can contribute to positive system change.
Meet our speakers:
13:10 – 14:00
What is the role of culture in shaping a sustainable society? How can arts, culture, and heritage evoke emotion and drive behavioural change for sustainability? In this session, we will explore these often untapped mediums to engage the wider public to not only reflect but also actively participate in humanity’s greater effort towards social and environmental sustainability. We will examine how cultural narratives can highlight the interconnectedness of people and the planet, emphasising the importance of collective action.
Learnings
- Understand how cultural narratives shape perceptions of sustainability and foster a sense of shared purpose.
- Recognise the power of arts and culture to evoke emotions that drive behavioural change towards sustainability.
- Discover effective ways to communicate sustainability issues through creative mediums, making them more relatable and actionable.
Post-Event Actions
- Join community projects that use arts and culture to promote sustainability, such as murals, performances, or workshops.
- Explore how local culture can address sustainability issues, encouraging community input and collaboration.
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 11 Sept PM
Rethinking Workforce Transformation
This programme explores the evolving landscape of workforce transformation, focusing on innovative strategies essential for navigating the future of work. As industries adapt to rapid technological advancements, shifting societal expectations, and emerging global challenges, it is crucial to rethink traditional approaches to workforce development. Participants will engage in discussions on the transformative role of artificial intelligence, the importance of attracting and retaining sustainability and ESG talent, and the implications of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices in a global context.
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.
15:00 – 15:05
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.
15:15 – 16:05
This panel discussion will delve into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce. Experts from various sectors will explore how AI is reshaping job roles, enhancing productivity, and driving innovation while also addressing concerns related to job displacement, ethical implications, and the need for reskilling. Attendees will gain insights into the benefits of AI integration, such as improved efficiency and decision-making, alongside the challenges it presents, including potential inequality and the importance of fostering a human-centered approach to technology in the workplace. Join us for an engaging dialogue that aims to illuminate the complexities of AI’s role in shaping the future of work.
Learnings
- Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how AI is transforming job roles across various sectors, enhancing productivity, and fostering innovation.
- Discussions will focus on the importance of maintaining a human-centered approach to technology, ensuring that AI enhances rather than replaces human capabilities.
- Attendees will explore the potential inequalities that may arise from AI adoption and strategies to mitigate these issues, fostering a more equitable workplace.
Post-event actions
- Initiate or enhance training programs focused on reskilling employees to work alongside AI, ensuring they have the necessary skills to thrive in an AI-driven environment.
- Develop and adopt ethical guidelines for AI use within the organization, ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI applications.
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.
16:05 – 16:55
This panel discussion will focus on the critical strategies for attracting and retaining talent in the sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) sectors through innovative educational pathways. Industry leaders and educators will share insights on the effectiveness of training courses, graduate schemes, and continuous learning initiatives in building a skilled workforce committed to sustainability. The panel will address the evolving demands of the job market, the importance of aligning educational programs with industry needs, and the role of mentorship and community engagement in fostering a new generation of professionals. Join us to explore how targeted educational approaches can enhance talent retention and drive meaningful progress in sustainability and ESG initiatives.
Learnings
- The panel will highlight the evolving demands of the job market and the importance of aligning educational programs with industry needs.
- Gain insights into critical strategies for attracting and retaining talent in the sustainability and ESG sectors through innovative educational pathways.
Post-event actions
- Assess and refine their educational programs to ensure alignment with industry needs, focusing on skills required for sustainability roles.
- Develop partnerships with educational institutions to create relevant training courses and graduate schemes.
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.
16:55 – 17:45
This panel discussion will explore the implications of recent rollbacks of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the United States and how these changes resonate across the Asia Pacific region. Experts in international business and social policy will analyse the potential ripple effects on corporate practices and cultural attitudes towards DEI in Asia. The conversation will highlight how companies in the region are responding—whether by reinforcing their own DEI commitments, adapting strategies, or facing challenges amid shifting global norms. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the interconnectedness of global DEI efforts and the importance of fostering inclusive workplaces in an increasingly diverse world. Join us for a critical dialogue on navigating these challenges and opportunities in the Asia Pacific context.
Learnings
- Attendees will explore the implications of recent rollbacks of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the United States and their resonance across the Asia Pacific region.
- The discussion will highlight how companies in the region are responding to these changes, including reinforcing their DEI commitments, adapting strategies, and facing challenges amid shifting global norms.
Post-event actions
- Adapt strategies to address potential challenges arising from shifting global norms, ensuring that DEI efforts remain relevant and effective.
- Foster collaboration with local and regional stakeholders to share best practices and promote a collective approach to DEI in the Asia Pacific context.
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 12 Sept AM
Rethinking Marketing & Communications
Conscious consumerism and environmental awareness are paramount across the world. In Hong Kong and Asia, the communications and marketing strategies that drive change are unique to the region and its individual topics.
The Rethinking Marketing & Communications program aims to share the latest campaigns, concepts and considerations on the minds of leading professionals to address the ever-changing landscape from the viewpoint of companies, their stakeholder, consumers and the wider public.
Join us as we discuss if sustainability communications is having a midlife crisis and if the way we talk about climate action needs a drastic change, the extent to which consumers consider environmental and social issues in the buying decision making and action, and the evolution of ESG communications as the geopolitical landscape transforms.
Through three engaging sessions, participants will be explore, inspire and empower industry leaders to continue championing sustainable marketing and communications, with the united goal of 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 supports the Hong Kong public relations and communications industry, its professionals, its affiliates, its academic institutions and their students.
Our sustainability goals for 2025:
– Champion ESG Communications in Hong Kong and beyond
– Educate our professionals and the wider HK industry on best practice in ESG Communications, hosting forums, events and though leadership opprotunities
– Be an agent of change
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 supports the Hong Kong public relations and communications industry, its professionals, its affiliates, its academic institutions and their students.
Our sustainability goals for 2025:
– Champion ESG Communications in Hong Kong and beyond
– Educate our professionals and the wider HK industry on best practice in ESG Communications, hosting forums, events and though leadership opprotunities
– Be an agent of change
10:45 – 11:35
We have known about fossil fuel-driven climate change since the late 1950s, but we are further than ever from a solution – let alone a reversal of temperatures. There is a growing body of thought that the doomsayers have had the effect of making things worse, rather than driving change. There is a growing body of evidence that we need to change the way we talk about climate change if we are to drive demonstrable change. We are seeing much greater emphasis on telling stories, and showing real people and the real-life effects climate change is having on them.
Learnings
- How are sustainability communications changing?
- Which organisations are doing it well, and who needs to think again?
- What are the practical steps any organisation can take to make changes?
- How do you bring storytelling into your communications?
Post-Event Actions
- Research and compile case studies of organisations excelling in sustainability communications to share best practices.
- Develop a checklist of practical steps organisations can implement to enhance their sustainability communications.
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 supports the Hong Kong public relations and communications industry, its professionals, its affiliates, its academic institutions and their students.
Our sustainability goals for 2025:
– Champion ESG Communications in Hong Kong and beyond
– Educate our professionals and the wider HK industry on best practice in ESG Communications, hosting forums, events and though leadership opprotunities
– Be an agent of change
11:35 – 12:25
Consumers often publicly advocate for brands to step up their environmental and social responsibilities. But do they put their money where their mouth is? This session will discuss differing generational perspectives towards the responsibility of businesses versus buyers, the gap between what consumers say they want and what they actually buy, and if regulation is the only real backbone to change across Asian markets – especially in more difficult market conditions.
Learnings
- Understand the disparity between consumers’ advocacy for sustainability and their actual purchasing decisions.
- Explore how different generations prioritize corporate social responsibility and how this influences their buying habits.
- Assess the role of regulations in driving change in corporate practices and consumer behaviours in Asian markets.
Post-Event Actions
- Develop a simple guide for brands on improving transparency in their sustainability efforts.
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 supports the Hong Kong public relations and communications industry, its professionals, its affiliates, its academic institutions and their students.
Our sustainability goals for 2025:
– Champion ESG Communications in Hong Kong and beyond
– Educate our professionals and the wider HK industry on best practice in ESG Communications, hosting forums, events and though leadership opprotunities
– Be an agent of change
12:25 – 13:15
As the geopolitical landscape transforms, so too does the narrative surrounding ESG communications. With global ESG investments dropping in 2023 and geopolitical tensions reshaping sustainability priorities, organizations must rethink how they communicate their ESG commitments. This panel discussion will explore how businesses can adapt their messaging and strategies to remain credible, transparent, and impactful in promoting sustainability amidst these challenges.
Learnings
- Understand major geopolitical changes (e.g., U.S.-China tensions, the ban on DEI in the US) that are reshaping ESG priorities and the impact on multi-national corporations.
- Explore ways that organizations can adjust their ESG messaging to resonate with stakeholders in a climate of scepticism and reduced funding.
- Practical advice on integrating geopolitical insights into ESG communication frameworks.
Post-Event Actions
- Gain actionable insights on how to effectively communicate ESG initiatives within a changing geopolitical context.
- Learn practical strategies for adapting communication frameworks to meet the evolving expectations of stakeholders and investors.
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 supports the Hong Kong public relations and communications industry, its professionals, its affiliates, its academic institutions and their students.
Our sustainability goals for 2025:
– Champion ESG Communications in Hong Kong and beyond
– Educate our professionals and the wider HK industry on best practice in ESG Communications, hosting forums, events and though leadership opprotunities
– Be an agent of change
Day 2 – Friday 12 Sept PM
Rethinking Health & Wellbeing
This programme focuses on fostering a holistic approach to wellness and social impact within the workplace and the community. Participants will explore strategies for cultivating a supportive and healthy workplace culture, integrating physical, mental, and emotional wellness initiatives that address the diverse needs of employees. Discussions will also delve into intergenerational dynamics, highlighting effective strategies for bridging generational divides and leveraging diverse perspectives to drive meaningful social change.
Additionally, the programme will emphasise the role of sport in promoting mental health and enhancing community well-being, showcasing how sporting initiatives can foster social connections, improve mental health outcomes, and create a sense of belonging among diverse groups. Overall, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to enhance workplace wellness, promote intergenerational collaboration, and leverage community engagement to drive positive social impact.
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 520 Agency Members, with service units throughout Hong Kong, providing high-quality social services to those in need.
14:05 – 14:10
14:20 – 15:00
To enhance community living and ensure a safer, more reassuring environment across generations, stakeholders including the government, business sector, and social welfare sector are jointly promoting Hong Kong as an age-friendly city. Encouraging society to adopt technology and foster social collaboration in shaping a better future is essential to developing age-friendly environments that support holistic well-being.
A truly age-friendly city fosters inter-generational engagement, improves accessibility, and integrates smart urban planning to enhance the physical, mental, and social well-being of all residents. This session will explore technology-driven strategies, ESG-aligned initiatives, and collaborative frameworks for designing future-ready cities that champion holistic wellness and long-term livability.
Learnings
• Understanding the importance of inter-generational engagement in creating age-friendly communities.
• Identifying best practices for integrating smart solutions into city design for improved livability.
• Learning about stakeholder collaboration among government, businesses, and social welfare sectors.
Post-event Actions
• Develop a framework for ongoing collaboration among stakeholders to implement age-friendly initiatives.
• Create a resource guide on technology-driven strategies for enhancing community living.
• Establish a task force to assess and monitor the integration of ESG principles in urban planning projects.
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 520 Agency Members, with service units throughout Hong Kong, providing high-quality social services to those in need.
15:00 – 15:40
Smart home technology is revolutionizing health and wellness by creating seamless, connected environments that support individuals across generations. From health monitoring device to AI-powered home assistants, these innovations enable personalized care, promote independent living for seniors, and encourage family engagement in wellness activities.
This session brings together key players adopting technology to investigate how smart home solutions could bridge generational gaps and foster a supportive atmosphere, enhance well-being of the society.
Learnings
• Exploring the benefits of health monitoring devices and AI-powered assistants in promoting independent living for seniors.
• Recognizing the role of smart home solutions in fostering family engagement in wellness activities.
• Identifying key innovations that bridge generational gaps in health and wellness support.
Post-event Actions
• Smart home solutions can help bridge the divide between generations, creating inclusive environments that cater to diverse needs.
• Stakeholders from various sectors can work together to implement smart technologies, driving community-wide improvements in health and wellness.
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 520 Agency Members, with service units throughout Hong Kong, providing high-quality social services to those in need.
15:40 – 16:20
This topic explores the powerful intersection of sports, mental health, and community building. Discover how sports participation not only enhances mental well-being by reducing stress and fostering a sense of belonging but also serves as a catalyst for building strong community connections. Through inclusive programs and partnerships, sports play a vital role in promoting diversity, supporting mental health initiatives, and creating a supportive environment for all. Join us on this journey of leveraging the transformative power of sports to nurture mental health and enhance community well-being.
Learnings
- Recognizing the role of physical activity in promoting mental well-being through the release of endorphins and improvement in overall brain function.
- Appreciating how sports can create a sense of community by fostering relationships, teamwork, and social connections among individuals.
- Exploring how sports programs can be tailored to address specific mental health challenges within communities, providing a platform for support and healing.
- Emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and diversity in sports to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from the mental health and community-building aspects of sports.
- Learning about successful collaborations and partnerships between sports organizations, mental health professionals, and community groups to promote mental well-being through sports.
Post-Event Actions
- Reflective Journaling: Encourage delegates to reflect on key insights gained from the event in a personal journal. This can help them internalize learnings and identify actionable steps for implementation.
- Community Engagement: Encourage delegates to volunteer or participate in community sports programs that promote mental health and well-being. They can contribute their time and skills to support initiatives within their local communities.
- Action Planning: Encourage delegates to develop action plans based on the event learnings. They can set personal or company goals related to mental health, sports participation, or community building and work towards achieving them.
Supported by
Laureus Sport For Good
Laureus Sport for Good currently supports more than 275 programmes in over 50 countries that use the power of sport to transform lives. Founded in response to Nelson Mandela’s challenge, issued at the first Laureus World Sports Awards in Monaco in 2000, that “sport has the power to change the world”, our vision is to use sport as a powerful and cost-effective tool to help children and young people
Products, Services & Solutions
- Charity/NGO
All sessions are subject to change.