In today's interconnected world, effective cross-cultural communication and collaboration are essential skills for thriving in diverse workplaces. This interactive workshop is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, sensitivity, and strategies needed to respect cultural differences and cultivate productive relationships across cultures.
The workshop begins by addressing the cultural challenges that can impact business efficiency and hinder understanding in diverse workplaces. Through engaging discussions and practical activities, participants will explore the nuances of cultural differences and their impact on communication, teamwork, and decision-making. By identifying and addressing these challenges head-on, participants will develop the skills to foster productivity and understanding in their multicultural work environments.
To deepen cultural awareness and promote inclusivity, the workshop delves into the historical roots of racism and privilege. By debunking myths and misconceptions, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the systemic biases that persist in society. Through thought-provoking discussions, participants will develop an awareness of their own biases and privileges, fostering an inclusive mindset and promoting social equity within their organizations.
By the end of this workshop, participants will have gained a deep appreciation for cultural differences, developed practical skills for effective cross-cultural communication and collaboration, and strengthened their cultural competence and race allyship. Armed with these insights, participants will be well-prepared to navigate the complexities of multicultural workplaces and contribute to the success of global organizations. Together, let us bridge cultures and create inclusive environments that foster productivity, understanding, and collaboration on a global scale.
Objectives / Key Takeaways:
• Learn to respect and be sensitive to cultural differences for effective cross-cultural communication and collaboration
•Address cultural challenges impacting business efficiency to foster productivity and understanding in a diverse workplace
•Explore the historical roots and debunk myths of racism and privilege to promote awareness and inclusion
•Enhance cultural competence and race allyship to improve collaboration with diverse colleagues
•Expand cultural knowledge for effective global business communication and relationship-building
Target Audience
· Junior, middle to senior level professionals
We thank our venue host Freshfields. Light refreshments will be served at the event.
Fern Ngai, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Specialist
Fern is a seasoned leader and changemaker with extensive experience in both the non-profit and private sectors in Asia and Canada. Over her career, Fern has successfully led major change initiatives, and built expertise in responsible and strategic leadership, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), talent development and cultural change. Fern is a passionate advocate for the rights of marginalised communities and currently dedicates her time volunteering as board director for charities KELY Support Group, AIDS Concern, Beyond Vision International, and SENsational Foundation. Fern was previously the CEO of Community Business, a not-for-profit advancing responsible and inclusive business practices in Asia. She also held executive roles in the technology, HR, governance, strategy, and corporate affairs functions at Standard Chartered Bank and was its first D&I champion for Hong Kong.
Benita Chick, CEO and Founder, Encompass HK
Benita founded Encompass HK in 2018 to realize her vocation for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through education and consultancy. Through Encompass HK, Benita has developed bespoke programs and tools such as Beer, Chocolate and Inclusion; Intersectionality; LGBTQ+ and mental health; Allyship bingo to discuss DEI issues. As an individual living with Bipolar Disorder and a Chinese lesbian, Benita regularly shares her personal journey in media interviews, panels and podcasts. Benita teaches part-time in The University of Hong Kong on SDGs and The Chinese University of Hong Kong on Diversity and Inclusion.
