How DEI (and Belonging) Work in Asia
22-24 March 2024
VENUE: CATAPULT
1 Rochester Park, #02-01 Rochester Commons, Singapore 139212
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It has been almost four years since our inaugural SIETAR Southeast Asia gathering in Singapore – so we are excited to invite you to join us in March 2024 for 3 days of lively discussions, learning activities and socialising on the theme of ‘How DEI and Belonging work in Asia’.
This event will take place in person in Singapore and will also be streamed online.
DEIB (Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging) is a hot topic globally and increasingly so in Asia given the diversity and disparities in the region. Asia is perhaps the most diverse region in the world, with varied languages, religions, political systems, geographies, cultural heritage and economies that are developed and developing. It is also one of the most important regions for global trade, business and tourism, so working effectively across cultures is of the utmost importance.
However, it is often seen that many initiatives in this part of the world are modelled on policies and practices originating from the West – mostly from Europe and North America. For instance, theories and models used in intercultural learning and development and in training programmes in Asia often follow a more western framework. Also, policies and practices in the space of DEIB transplanted from global offices and incorporated in Asian offices may not be effective since they are not rooted in the cultural contexts, concerns and priorities of the Asian region.
Given this disconnect, we invite you to join us as we explore as to what would an Asian framework of DEIB look like? We would like to understand what are some effective practices and policies around Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging in Asia and their implications for those involved in intercultural education, training and research.
Themes of the Conference:
As interculturalists, we recognise the need and importance of using frameworks and approaches in Asia that are in sync with Asian cultural nuances in the space of DEIB. These are some themes that could be discussed, but other topics are also welcome:
- What does DEIB mean in the context of the countries and cultures of Asia? What is similar to the West and what is unique to Asia?
- What practices and approaches are organisations implementing in Southeast Asian in relation to DEIB? With regards to practices that are effective in Asian organisations, what lessons and learnings can we take in terms of how they have been adapted or customised? What works, what doesn’t and how can they work better?
- What does inclusive behaviour look like across cultures in Asia? What initiatives are organizations, institutions and governments introducing to encourage people across age, race, ability, gender, nationality, language, belief systems and other differences to make them feel heard, included and belong?
- What are Asian perspectives on ensuring psychological safety in the workplace?
- Can we explore linkages and synergies between intercultural skills, DEIB initiatives and Global Mobility and Expatriation/Talent Acquisition and Management in Asia?
- How has inclusion worked in relation to LGBTQ communities and societies?
- Going forward, how can we take DEIB to the next level? What are the positives and pitfalls? What are some priorities we need to be cognizant of?
SPEAKERS
More information coming soon!
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We are also looking for volunteers who can assist with communications, marketing, and logistics. Please let us know at info@sietarsea.org.
We also plan to include participation from the social impact sector: those working to empower marginalised communities in Southeast Asia and members of these communities about the challenges they face. We would discuss how we as interculturalists, can best serve their needs.
There will be also be opportunities to exchange ideas on the latest learning and development approaches and methodologies, such as applying neuroscience, gamification, intercultural and DEIB tools, assessments and publications.
This promises to be an interactive and lively meet with opportunities to learn, share and network over 3 days. We look forward to seeing you on 22-24 March in 2024 -please save the dates. We will be in touch with more details to follow.
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