As we transition from summer to autumn, we would like to take a moment to reflect on WIFA’s achievements so far in this challenging year, while also sharing our plans for upcoming events. WIFA has remained steadfast in our commitment to empower women professionals, even amidst the current economic slowdown, job losses, and tightening financial conditions across Asia.
As we reflect on the first half of the year, many well attended activities were held for corporate sponsors and members. In January we launched the WIFA #EmbraceEquity Campaign. This was a unique opportunity to promote gender equity in the financial sector. In February WIFA organized a social event to celebrate the EmbraceEquity Campaign, to create a meaningful image showcasing #diversity between #genders while highlighting the collective strength of the WIFA team. In March we initiated our flagship Spotlight Series, a platform that recognizes strong future leaders and trusted decision makers who have made an impact in their career. We also paid tribute to Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day. And as a special celebration WIFA joined HKEX in their Ring the Bell for Gender Equality Campaign on March 8 to raise awareness on diversity and inclusion within the markets and our communities.
In April, we launched our flagship Mentor-Mentee Program (#MMP), which empowers women by connecting them with established male and female leaders in the financial industry. In May, we celebrated Mother’s Day by hosting a fun fitness program of yoga – prioritizing women’s health and well-being. WIFA was also honoured to bring together women leaders from across the Indo-Pacific for a forum to discuss how #WomenGreenTheWay when it comes to developing market solutions to finance Asia’s pathway to net zero. In June and July, the MMP and the ESG committees were hard at work organizing events. The MMP kicked off its networking event, with a wide range of #mentor and #mentee participants attending panels about mentorship.
Moving forward, the WIFA x RUN Hong Kong signature fitness challenge returns in October, with a warm up session to launch the event scheduled for September. And the ESG Series #PowerToChange will kick off a series of events starting this fall to provide insights from industry pioneers, thought leaders, and visionaries driving change in sustainable finance. The MMP will also be hosting social get togethers for all participants in the months ahead. By the end of the year WIFA will also choose new charity partners so we provide them a platform to make an impact on our community.
These events are just the beginning of shaping our future together. All of this is possible with the help of our highly dedicated Steering Committee members, generous corporate sponsors, and supportive members! We also encourage you to share with us your initiatives, so that WIFA can continue to support you (wifasia.org). We look forward to welcoming you to our future events!
Bonnie Ohri and Bonnie So