Accenture in South Africa’s Post

A very high-level summary of my class on Diversity and Inclusion at the University of the Free State in South Africa: Diversity and inclusion have become global priorities, fostering environments where varied perspectives are respected and valued. Internationally, organizations are embracing diversity to enhance creativity and innovation, recognizing the benefits of diverse teams. In countries like Canada and Sweden, inclusive policies are integrated into workplaces to ensure equitable opportunities for all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background. In contrast, some nations are still in the early stages of addressing systemic biases and promoting inclusion. Multinational companies are adopting global strategies to create culturally competent workforces, addressing both local and international diversity challenges. The rise of remote work has also expanded the potential for more inclusive hiring practices worldwide. Global initiatives, such as the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, emphasize the importance of reducing inequalities and fostering inclusive societies. Educational institutions worldwide are incorporating diversity and inclusion into their curricula to prepare future leaders for global challenges. Despite progress, barriers remain, requiring continued effort and collaboration across sectors and borders to achieve true inclusivity. In South Africa, diversity and inclusion efforts aim to address the legacy of apartheid, focusing on increasing representation and equity across all sectors. The country has implemented policies like Black Economic Empowerment to promote economic inclusion and redress historical injustices. University of the Free State Philippe Burger #diversity #inclusion

1. **Youth Empowerment:** The YCCP provides platforms and resources for young individuals to realize their potential, develop leadership skills, and take charge of their futures. 2. **Networking Opportunities:** Members can connect with established professionals, mentors, and peers, facilitating collaborations, partnerships, and knowledge exchange. 3. **Skills Development:** YCCP offers workshops, seminars, and training programs to enhance members' business acumen, leadership abilities, and technical skills. 4. **Advocacy and Representation:** The organization advocates for youth-centric policies and represents the interests of young entrepreneurs and professionals on local, national, and international levels. 5. **Access to Resources:** Members gain access to funding opportunities, market insights, industry data, and support services, enabling them to overcome barriers and succeed in their endeavors. 6. **Platform for Innovation:** YCCP fosters a culture of innovation by encouraging members to explore new ideas, technologies, and business models, driving economic progress and societal development. 7. **Global Exposure:** Through partnerships, exchange programs, and international events, members can broaden their perspectives, build global networks, and explore business opportunities beyond borders. 8. **Community Engagement:** YCCP engages with communities through outreach programs, social initiatives, and corporate social responsibility activities, contributing to societal welfare and sustainable development. 9. **Voice for Change:** Members have a platform to voice concerns, propose solutions, and drive positive change in areas such as education, employment, and entrepreneurship ecosystem. 10. **Professional Growth:** Participation in YCCP activities and projects allows members to gain practical experience, build credibility, and enhance their professional reputation, opening doors to career advancement opportunities. 11. **Social Connectivity:** The organization facilitates social interactions, friendships, and support networks among young professionals, promoting a sense of belonging and camaraderie. 12. **International University Scholarship Programs:** YCCP collaborates with educational institutions and sponsors scholarship programs, enabling deserving members to pursue higher education and acquire specialized skills. These benefits collectively contribute to the educational, social, and economic advancement of youth in Pakistan through the Youth Chamber of Commerce Pakistan. I invite everyone to join YCCP (Youth Chamber of Commerce Pakistan) and be a part of this incredible journey towards progress and empowerment. https://lnkd.in/davzhpgz

What an incredible Asian Heritage Month 2024! 🌟 While the events may have wound down, the conversations and reflections continue to resonate deeply. Here are some standout moments and inspiring individuals who made this month unforgettable: ✨ Connecting with policymakers Erika Moritsugu and Kamal Khera who advocate for systemic change in public forums. They remind us that while the current system benefits some, we need a new one that considers everyone. ✨ Witnessing the relentless drive of Winston Chan to create safe spaces to speak and hold us accountable to actions that foster a more thoughtful world. ✨ Celebrating the 25-year commitment of YCPA - Young Chinese Professionals Association in opening doors in the corporate world for new and emerging talent. ✨ Applauding our Ascend Montréal committee in collab with TD and Deloitte for throwing an AHM event that left people wanting more from our panel Kelvin Vi Luan Tran, Selena Lu, ASC, C.Dir. And Ravy Por, ICD.D ✨Engaging in an enriching fireside chat with Kelvin Vi Luan Tran, Group Head and CFO of TD Bank about the importance of sharing our stories instead just hoping that the work will speak for itself. ✨ Having a serendipitous meeting with change leader Selena Lu, ASC, C.Dir. while discussing growth potential with Alexander Peh 🏳️🌈, President of Ascend Canada. Our conversation highlighted the crucial role of organizations like Ascend in fostering collaboration and inclusivity in Quebec. As we continue to strive for a more inclusive and equitable society: In what ways can we ensure our work and contributions are recognized and valued? How can we support and collaborate with organizations to foster inclusivity in our communities? #Inclusion #Diversity #Leadership #CommunityImpact #ReflectAndAct

Let's work towards a more inclusive world, where diversity, equity and accessibility are at the forefront. Join us in sharing best practices and learnings to make this a reality. Submit your entry today and be a part of leaving a legacy of global inclusion. For those interested in Architecture and Design, we invite you to join our special forum. Send us a DM to be a part of the conversation. Inclusive design is more than just accessibility compliance. Adopting inclusive design principles can create experiences that are accessible and usable by the widest possible audience. It benefits not only people with disabilities (visible and non-visible), but also enhances the usability and experience for elderly individuals, non-native speakers, and other users. Together, by embracing inclusive design, we can drive innovation and make the world a better place for all. International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) Monica Parker Prof. Amanda Kirby Theo Smith Dr Shani Dhanda RIBA Julie Sawchuk Advita Patel Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) Neurodiversity in Business (NiB) - the Neurodiversity Charity ADHD Foundation Neurodiversity Charity Ed Warner MBE Jamie Shields Jean Hewitt Kay Sargent Ann Marie Aguilar Stephen Brown (WELL AP, Faculty) Dr Nasser Siabi OBE Microlink PC (UK) Ltd Please share #InclusiveDesign #Diversity #Equity #Accessibility

The Power of Tomorrow's Leaders Every August 12, the world comes together to celebrate International Youth Day—a day dedicated to honoring the energy, creativity, and potential of young people. This global event is not just about acknowledging the role of youth but also about inspiring action, celebrating achievements, and fostering a collective vision for a better future. Youth represent both the present and the future. They are the architects of tomorrow's world, brimming with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. The theme for International Youth Day varies each year, focusing on different aspects of youth empowerment and involvement. This year's theme, for instance, might highlight mental health, education, or climate action—areas where young people are making profound impacts. But why focus so much attention on youth? The answer is simple: they are at the forefront of change. Young people have the capacity to challenge the status quo, break down barriers, and drive progress. They are not just future leaders—they are current leaders, making strides in their communities, schools, and workplaces. On International Youth Day, it’s essential to celebrate such voices of change and recognize the myriad ways young people contribute to society. Whether through activism, innovation, or creative expression, they are shaping the world in meaningful ways. Empowerment is at the heart of International Youth Day. This involves not just celebrating achievements but also addressing the challenges that young people face. Issues such as access to quality education, mental health support, and employment opportunities are critical areas where action is needed. Governments, organizations, and communities can play a significant role in supporting youth. This includes creating platforms for young people to voice their opinions, providing mentorship opportunities, and ensuring that their needs and concerns are addressed. By investing in youth, we invest in a brighter future for everyone. International Youth Day serves as a reminder of the incredible potential of young people and the importance of nurturing their talents and aspirations. As we celebrate their contributions and advocate for their needs, we also pave the way for a more inclusive and dynamic world. Let’s use this day to not only acknowledge the achievements of youth but also to commit to supporting and empowering them every day. After all, the future belongs to those who are brave enough to shape it—and the youth are leading the charge. So, here’s to the dreamers, the doers, the changemakers, and the visionaries. Happy International Youth Day! #leadership #leader #leaders #womenleaders #womenleadership #womeninleadership #womeninpolitics #african #africanyouth #youthleadership #youthleaders #youthleader #theshemove #theshemovement

Read our blog where we discuss benefits of DEIs and challenges without it: 🚀 Collaboration: Unlocking Access to Education and a Future-Ready Workforce 🌍 At Skills Council of Canada (SCC), we're dedicated to driving positive change through collaboration. Achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4) — providing inclusive and equitable quality education for all — is essential for improving the well-being of humanity and supporting the most vulnerable. The interdependence of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is clear. Achieving SDG4 is foundational for progress in areas such as: 🔹 SDG1 (No Poverty). 🔹 SDG5 (Gender Equality). 🔹 SDG10 (Reduced Inequalities). SCC's skills-to-employment ecosystem supports widespread education access through: 🔹 A robust framework fostering cross-sector partnerships to tackle unique challenges. 🔹 Sustainable structures supporting education and skills development for underprivileged communities. 🔹 Diverse educational resources covering soft skills, technical skills, vocational skills, and more. 🔹 A state-of-the-art skills management system ensuring effective resource utilization. We're passionate about fostering a collaborative environment to realize SDG4. Partnerships with other organizations help us expand our skills development resources and global impact. 🌐 Read our blog where we further discuss these topics: https://bit.ly/3YwkLbo #EducationForAll #GlobalCollaboration #SDG4 #FutureReady #SkillsCouncilCanada 📚

Congratulations to the 2024 National President, We are glad Namibia is represented. Importance of leadership among youth Memory updated Leadership among youth is crucial for several reasons: Building Future Leaders: Youth leadership development cultivates the next generation of leaders who will drive positive change in society. It empowers young individuals to take on responsibilities, make decisions, and lead others effectively. Fostering Innovation: Youth leaders often bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table. Their creativity and willingness to explore new approaches can lead to groundbreaking solutions to complex problems. Addressing Youth Issues: Youth leaders are uniquely positioned to understand and address the challenges faced by their peers. They can advocate for issues such as education, mental health, environmental sustainability, and social justice, driving meaningful change in these areas. Empowering Communities: When young people take on leadership roles, they inspire and mobilize their communities. They can rally support for important causes, organize community projects, and encourage civic engagement among their peers. Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Youth leadership promotes diversity and inclusion by giving voice to individuals from different backgrounds and perspectives. It encourages collaboration and respect for varying opinions, fostering a more inclusive society. Building Confidence and Skills: Engaging in leadership activities at a young age helps develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making. It also boosts self-confidence and resilience, preparing youth for future challenges.

✨In our latest commentary, my colleague Sara Gianesello and I underscore the critical importance of actively involving youth in decision-making processes, specifically within the AU-EU partnership context.🌍 📖 Dive into our insights on how empowering young leaders can shape the future of this pivotal collaboration! Check it out here;👇 https://bit.ly/3ve6zHm #youth #AUEUpartnership ECDPM 🔎 🌍

Driving Transformation in South Africa By Nimmita Maharaj, Diversity and Transformation Director, Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric Schneider Electric recently attained a Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Level 1 certification. It is a tremendous accomplishment and testament to their continued commitment to economic and socio-economic development in the South African business landscape. Diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) endeavours to understand people on a deeper level. When you have a better understanding of others, you can build closer and more effective relationships. Growing an organisation that really understands and fosters the DE&I agenda requires dedication. It is an ever-prevailing goal that extends beyond mandates and diversity-related initiatives. To establish the above, a fair amount of work needs to go into educating people; fostering a growth mindset that embraces change, thereby allowing employees to step out of their comfort zones, and engage in difficult conversations. For more info, read the full article from the latest edition here: https://hubs.la/Q02tBZsD0 #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #TopEmpowerment #Publication #TopcoMedia

9% vs 51.5% 🤔 9% - That's the percentage of directors from non-Anglo-Celtic backgrounds on ASX 300 boards, according to the 2024 Board Diversity Index. 51.5% - That's the proportion of Australian residents who were either born overseas (first generation) or have a parent born overseas (second generation). Is this stark contrast the best we can do in multicultural Australia? 🇦🇺 Last week, I had the privilege of speaking at the Victorian Parliament for the Seat at the Table symposium. The question isn't "Can we afford to diversify our board?" It's "Can we afford not to?" 💡 For those dismissing D&I as just another corporate trend, consider this: 1. 🧠 Cognitive Diversity = Better Decisions   Diverse boards bring varied perspectives, leading to more robust debate and better decision-making. 2. 💼 Market Relevance   In our globalised society, how can a board effectively guide strategy without mirroring its diverse customer base? 3. 🚀 Innovation Driver   Diverse teams are more innovative. Can your board afford to lack the thinking that fuels groundbreaking ideas? At the symposium, hosted by the inspiring Phy Mei Liu, I shared the stage with fellow panelists Husna A., Hiruni Walimuni, Kimberley Chu, and esteemed board members Tass Mousaferiadis, Daniel Poynton, and @Rebecca Smith. Together, we explored visions for diverse leadership. We discussed how some boards are stepping up: 🌐 Expand Your Network, Literally Don't just post on LinkedIn. Engage with cultural associations, professional groups for people of color, and universities with diverse student bodies. Be present, listen, and build relationships before you need to fill a position. 🎤 Open Mic Board Pitches Host events where diverse professionals can pitch their value to your board in a low-pressure environment. It's not just about them impressing you—it's about you learning what you've been missing. 🧠 Skills-Based Mapping Instead of traditional role-based recruitment, map out the cognitive diversity and life experiences your board needs. Seek individuals who fill these gaps, regardless of their board experience. The talent is out there. Are we brave enough to transform our approach to find it? 🦸♀️🦸♂️ A huge thank you to Roo Mirzaabbasi, Carmel Guerra, and the Centre for Multicultural Youth and Natalie Suleyman MP for creating and sponsoring this vital program that empowers young women from migrant and refugee backgrounds to step into leadership roles. 🙏 As for me? I'm on the lookout for board roles where I can roll up my sleeves and contribute to real change. Know a board that could use a fresh perspective? Or maybe you're part of one that's ready to shake things up? I'd love to chat! Let's grab a coffee (virtual or real) and explore how we can make Australian boardrooms truly reflect our diverse nation. ☕️ #BoardDiversity #InclusiveLeadership #SeatAtTheTable #VictorianParliament