Description

As conversations around diversity, equity and inclusion evolve and become more sophisticated in Asia and we start to dig into the importance of an intersectional lens when promoting equality, the need for a deeper understanding of social mobility and particularly its role in driving progress in organisations has become more poignant. 

In this event, we will launch our APAC Summary, unveiling the findings from our research. There will be a panel discussion and time for networking. This is a hybrid event. 

Theme: Collaboration: Strengthening Community Networks to Enhance Social Mobility  

Aim of the Discussion: The objective of this panel discussion is to unite perspectives from corporates, grassroots organisations, and academia to explore how strengthening community networks can enhance social mobility across diverse markets included in the study. The discussion will examine systemic barriers, such as limited access to professional networks, mentorship and social capital, and their impact on widening disparities. Emphasis will be placed on practical, actionable strategies that organisations can adopt to foster stronger community connections, improve equity in opportunities and drive meaningful change on a regional scale. 

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Practical Information

  • 20.02.25
    4:30 pm - 6:30 pm (UTC +8)
    Digital Interactive Lab and Multi-purpose area, 2/F, Main Library, University of Hong Kong
    Add to calendar 20-02-2025 04:30 PM 20-02-2025 06:30 PM Social Mobility APAC Summary Launch Asia/Hong_Kong

Event Speakers

Emily Chan

Partner, People Advisory Services (PAS), Ernst & Young Tax Services Limited

Emily is a Partner of PAS, Ernst & Young Tax Services Limited. She is a chartered accountant with over 18 years of experience as a professional in global mobility, focusing on expatriate and employment tax, immigration, assignment and relocation coordination. She serves as a global mobility advisor, offering sustainability services that engage employees, drive impact through mobility and strengthen a sustainable work-life balance.

Passionate about building a better world, Emily actively champions EY Ripples, the flagship corporate responsibility program at EY. She is dedicated to supporting youth in Hong Kong with developing employability skills and has served as a business advisor for NGOs for about 10 years. Emily strongly believes in learning from the youth she collaborates with, leveraging her skills and experience to empower them. Additionally, she participates enthusiastically in women’s network initiatives to promote inclusiveness and equality within the workplace community.

Shalini Mahtani, MBE

Founder & CEO at The Zubin Foundation

Shalini Mahtani is one of Hong Kong’s most authoritative and respected voices on social issues, particularly diversity and inclusion. In addition to founding The Zubin Foundation, among the city’s most accomplished think tanks on issues related to ethnic minority welfare and patient welfare, Shalini is the founder of Community Business, the first organisation in Asia that brings together companies and their management around women, LGBTQ+ and disabilities at work. 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. She was also recognised by the HKSAR Government for her contribution to issues related to ethnic minorities in Hong Kong. Shalini has authored research and opinion pieces on diversity and inclusion and is a frequent speaker on the topic. She is also a co-host on both BBC World Service and RTHK Radio 3. Shalini is from Hong Kong. She is a graduate of The London School of Economics. She is married and has three children.

Shruti Thakar

She/Her

Practice Head, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – Asia, Australia, Middle East & Africa at Citi

Shruti heads the DE&I Practice for the Asia South, Asia North & Australia, Japan and Middle East & Africa clusters at Citi.

Shruti is a seasoned HR leader with 18 years of experience in leading multinationals, Citi, Unilever and Coca-Cola. She has held leadership roles, partnering with business heads to deliver on ambitious people plans.

Shruti is a dynamic professional with hands-on experience in cross-cultural talent development and succession planning and is passionate about embedding diversity, equity and inclusion for global organisations.

Shruti has extensive experience in Asia, having worked in Singapore, Hong Kong and India. Shruti, who is currently based in Singapore, is committed to assisting leaders in realising their full potential and improving organisational equity for all workers.

Shruti holds a Bachelor's Degree in Economics and a Master's Degree in Human Resources. She is a certified strategic human resources leader from Cornell University.