The Zubin Foundation Diversity List & Community Connectors 2017

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION

The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation (also known as The Zubin Foundation (TZF)) is a charity committed to equality and the betterment of Hong Kong. We focus on social issues in Hong Kong including racial integration, education of non-Chinese speaking children with special education needs (NCS SEN) and marginalised women and girls in the ethnic minority community.

The Zubin Foundation is a registered charity in Hong Kong (IR 91/12344) and relies on donations from individuals, corporations and foundations to fund its work.

For more information, please visit: www.zubinfoundation.org

Email us at: info@zubinfoundation.org

Follow us on social media: Facebook: The Zubin Foundation | Twitter: @ZubinFoundation

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Many thanks to the following:

• Town House

• Mr. Harry Banga, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Caravel Group.

• The India Association Hong Kong

• Ms. Alice Au and Ms. Katherine Liu-Bevan at Spencer Stuart Hong Kong for their advice, insight and time.

• Ms. Sandy Wai Shan Chan and Ms. Sheron Lee Young at The Zubin Foundation.

DISCLAIMER

The information and ideas herein are the confidential, proprietary, sole, and exclusive property of The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited. All information provided in this document is intended for discussion purposes only, and is not in the nature of advice. The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited reserves the right to make alterations to any of its documents without notice.

© 2017 The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited. All rights reserved.

CONTENTS

FOREWORD BY THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION

FOREWORD BY SPENCER STUART

INTRODUCTION

CRITERIA

METHODOLOGY

DIVERSITY OF NOMINEES

DIVERSITY LIST 2017

DIVERSITY OF CANDIDATES

CANDIDATE PROFILES

COMMUNITY CONNECTORS 2017

NEXT STEPS

APPENDIX

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FOREWORD BY THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION

Welcome to Diversity List 2017 and thank you for supporting greater racial inclusion in Hong Kong.

Diversity List 2016 was a great success and to date (1 February 2017), 5 out of the 16 candidates have been newly appointed to government advisory committees. This is a remarkable 31% take up in a mere 10 months.

The Diversity List is essentially the “best in class” in the ethnic minority community. The list presents smart and competent Hong Kong people who want to contribute to the future of Hong Kong. These individuals are from various ethnic, work and professional backgrounds and our belief is that their skills and experiences will be an asset to many advisory committees. This year over one third of our candidates are women and, in addition, many more ethnicities are represented in this list.

This year, too, we have created a Community Connectors category. This comprises individuals who have deep connections in their community and have spent, in most cases, decades working with their grass roots members on day to day issues that arise in Hong Kong. The Community Connectors category is a “go to” list for government and NGOs that wish to gain deeper insights..

Our advisory partner Spencer Stuart, once again, has been a delight to work with. They have brought independence, rigour and vast experience to the process of shortlisting, interviewing and selecting candidates. To Alice Au and Katherine Liu-Bevan, as well as the Spencer Stuart Hong Kong team, a heartfelt thank you.

Many thanks too to our financial sponsors Town House, Caravel Foundation and India Association Hong Kong and to the many organisations that helped to spread the word.

Our call to action this year is to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HKSARG) to continue to consider ethnically diverse candidates for appointments onto advisory committees. In addition, our call to action is to NGOs and charitable foundations, many of whom work with ethnic minority beneficiaries but have no ethnic minorities on their boards. The Diversity List is a readymade directory of high calibre candidates for you to consider. Not only will these candidates bring a different perspective to your work, our belief is that they will make your board stronger and more respresnentative of Hong Kong.

Congratulations to the individuals on Diversity List 2017 and Community Connectors 2017. We look forward to working together with all of you, towards a better, stronger, and more inclusive Hong Kong.

FOREWORD BY SPENCER STUART

First of all, let us extend our heartfelt congratulations to the 22 Diversity List candidates and the 5 Community Connectors candidates. You are the reason we are here, and you are the reason this initiative has been so worthwhile and inspiring.

Our congratulations also go to the 5 candidates from last year’s List who have been appointed to government advisory committees. This is a strong indication that The Zubin Foundation has played a great role in supporting the contribution capable and committed members from our diverse communities are able to make to the future of Hong Kong, and that the Hong Kong government has embraced this with open arms.

We are pleased to partner with The Zubin Foundation for a second consecutive year on this initiative. We have provided advice and conducted assessment on the shortlisting, interviewing and selection of the candidates utilising our capabilities in leadership consulting and talent development. We have also partnered in this programme with the unwavering belief that all the sectors in Hong Kong, including us as a corporate citizen, have a role and a duty to the success and vitality of our city.

Many congratulations again to The Zubin Foundation, and we look forward to working with you in future years.

Alice Au Board Director, Spencer Stuart

Shalini Mahtani, MBE Founder, The Zubin Foundation

METHODOLOGY INTRODUCTION

Hong Kong’s ethnic minorities largely self define as Hong Kong people. These communities are not homogenous and, similar to the ethnic Chinese population, is diverse by income level, education, religion and many other factors.

In April 2015, the Zubin Foundation reviewed the ethnic composition of the members of 100 government advisory bodies composed of committees, boards, panels and councils. There were 1,454 appointees on these advisory bodies and some of them, at the time, were serving in more than one advisory body. Only 1.9% of these positions were held by ethnic minorities, of which 79% were “White”. We concluded that clearly more work was needed to improve the representation of ethnic minorities in Hong Kong - particularly those from the Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Nepalese, Filipino, Thai and Indonesian communities. This was the beginnings of the Race for Opportunity: Diversity List.

Furthermore, ”The Status of Ethnic Minorities in Hong Kong, 1997 to 2014” ¹, produced in September 2015, by The Zubin Foundation with Puja Kapai at The Centre for Comparative and Public Law found that the status of ethnic minorities was generally below average. For some ethnicities, the high secondary school dropout rate, the significantly high percentage who end up in elementary positions and the rising crime rate is particularly alarming. Clearly the great intentions by many non-profit organisations to assist ethnic minorities have not yet produced positive results.

In March 2016, The Zubin Foundation produced Diversity List 2016 comprising 16 individuals. Since March 2016 to present day (1 February 2017), five of the 16 candidates on this list have been newly appointed to Hong Kong government advisory committees. This is significant and has demonstrated that the HKSARG also believes that advisory committees benefit from diversity.

This year, we launch Diversity List 2017, which once again puts forward exemplary individuals from the ethnic minority community. The process of

reviewing applicants’ resumes, shortlisting interview candidates, conducting the interviews and finally shortlisting the finalists was done by Spencer Stuart. Their experience in leadership selection brought both expertise and independence to the process.

What is new this year is that we are also launching Community Connectors 2017; this category comprises individuals who have deep understanding of a specific ethnic community and have spent many years in direct outreach with members of this community. The Community Connectors category is a necessary resource for government advisory bodies and NGOs that want to understand a specific area in greater depth.

CRITERIA

The Zubin Foundation set forth certain criteria for individuals in the nomination process:

• Be over the age of 18 and a permanent resident of Hong Kong.

• Be of non-Chinese Asian ethnicity or mixed race.

• Have significant experience in their area of work.

• Have achieved a certain standing in their profession.

• Be committed to serving Hong Kong.

• Be available to serve on a committee and be prepared to engage in meetings.

Diversity List

Individuals who have the skills to sit on any board (government, NGO or corporate). They are seasoned leaders in their fields of work and would be an asset to any committee.

Community Connectors

Stakeholder Engagement Nominations Shortlisting Launch

Stakeholder Engagement

• Engaged with 39 organisations. For full list, see Appendix 2.

• Met with Consul Generals.

• 9 private meetings with various groups.

• 3 public briefings.

• Email outreach.

• Outreach through Diversity List 2016 candidates.

Nominations

• Online nomination form open from September to December 2016.

• 57 nominees.

• Reviewed by Spencer Stuart on the basis of merit only.

Shortlisting

• Spencer Stuart shortlisted nominees.

• 38 invited, 37 interviewed.

• Successful candidates selected by Spencer Stuart on the basis of merit, not ethnicity, gender or age.

• Candidates recommended by Spencer Stuart.

DIVERSITY OF NOMINEES

Launch

• 22 candidates for Diversity List 2017

• 5 candidates for Community Connectors.

A total of 57 nominees completed an online nomination form that opened from 26 September 2016 to 4 December 2016. 51 of the nominees were self nominated and 6 were nominated by another person.

Of the 57 nominees, 22 were selected for Diversity List 2017 and 5 were selected for the Community Connectors 2017.

The ethnicity, gender and duration of years in Hong Kong of the nominees are presented below:

Figure

Filipino, 2%

Bangladeshi, 2% Sri-Lankan, 2% Thai, 2%

<7 years, 5%

Mixed, 7%

Pakistani, 8.5%

Nepalese, 8.5%

Female, 33%

Male, 67%

Indian, 68%

¹ The Status of Ethnic Minorities in Hong Kong 1997-2014, Centre for Comparative and Public Law(CCPL), the Faculty of Law, The University of Hong Kong, 23 September 2015 http://www.zubinfoundation.org/index.php/en/2013-12-27-07-21-21/2014-05-13-07-51-61

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7-15 years, 14%

Individuals who have significant experience in directly working with ethnic minorities to address specific questions about employment, education, health, welfare and other issues. They would be an asset to NGOs or specific government committees that work directly with ethnic minority service users. >26 years, 49%

16-25 years, 32%

1: Nominees by Ethnicity Figure 2: Nominees by Gender Figure 3: Nominees by Number of Years in Hong Kong

DIVERSITY LIST 2017

(In alphabetical order of last name)

Name Gender Expertise

1 Mr. Zoher ABDOOLCARIM Indian Male Business Management and Administration

2 Mrs. Aarti ANGARA Indian Female Finance

3 Mr. Dewan Saiful ALAM Bangladeshi Male Business Management and Administration

4 Ms. Farzana ASLAM Mixed (Pakistani + Scottish) Female Education and Training

5 Mr. Jeffrey Alterin ANDREWS Indian Male Charity and Non-Government Services

6 Mr. Mohan CHUGANI Indian Male Business Management and Administration

7 Mrs. Alia Elizabeth EYRES Mixed (Indian + American) Female Charity and Non-Government Services

8 Dr. David HARILELA Indian Male Business Management and Administration

9 Mr. Javed KHAN Pakistani Male Information Technology

10 Mr. Knattapisit KRUTKRONGCHAI Thai Male Business Management and Administration 11 Ms. Jonnet Bernal KUDERA Filipino Female Charity and Non-Government Services 12

DIVERSITY OF CANDIDATES

Bangladeshi, 4%

Nepalese, 4%

Pakistani, 10%

Filipino, 4% Thai, 4%

Indian, 55% Mixed, 19%

Female, 33%

Male, 67%

7-15 years, 23%

16-25 years, 32% >26 years, 45%

Bio-chemical engineer, 4%

Information Technology, 4%

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics, 4%

Finance, 4%

Human Services, 4%

Marketing, Sales and Services, 4%

Other, 8%

Business Management & Adminsitration, 28% Charity & Non-government services, 13% Health Sciences, 9%

Education & Training, 9% Law, Public Safety & Corrections & Security, 9%

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Figure 4: Candidates by Ethnicity Figure 5: Candidates by Gender

Figure 7: Candidates by Professional Expertise

Figure 6: Candidates by Number of Years in Hong Kong

Key for Candidate Profiles:

Ethnicity: Ethnicity is denoted by the following symbols:

Diversity List 2017

Language: Cantonese language ability was self-determined by each candidate.

Cantonese Speaking Ability:

None

Can say basic words. E.g. Give taxi directions Can speak basic social Cantonese

Cantonese Understanding Ability:

Can speak Cantonese in meetings even though may need to use English

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Most of the conversations Nothing

A few words only General meaning of conversations

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Pakistani Bangladeshi Thai Indian Filipino Nepalese

Malaysian Sri Lankan

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 50

Cantonese Speaking:

Candidate Profile Candidate Profile

Business Management & Adminsistration

ZOHER ABDOOLCARIM

Asia Editor Time Inc.

Professional Experience:

As the Hong Kong-based Asia Editor for TIME, which is part of the U.S. multimedia company Time Inc., Zoher has extensive international experience. He has lived abroad and, through his work, he is exposed to a wide range of political, socioeconomic and cultural milieus. He has also met many of Asia’s national and business leaders. Professionally, Zoher has authored many articles on Hong Kong, India and other countries in Asia.

Zoher hails from one of the oldest families in Hong Kong. Since his great-grandfather arrived in Hong Kong in the 1880s, the Abdoolcarim family has called Hong Kong home.

Zoher received much of his education in local schools in Hong Kong, and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the United States.

For many years Zoher was reluctant to be involved in the community, in order to stay impartial and unbiased. Over the last few years, Zoher has made a life decision to channel his passion for Hong Kong and his skills to try to help empower others.

Zoher speaks fluent Cantonese and is married with one child.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

AARTI ANGARA

Investment Director

Caravel Asset Management Group

Professional Experience:

Aarti currently works as an Investment Director at Caravel Asset Management Group, where she focuses on global equity investing in the technology, financials and consumer sectors.

Prior to Caravel, Aarti was Co-Head for the Non-Japan Asia Special Situations Group at Morgan Stanley. She was responsible for investing decisions, portfolio composition and sizing and served on the boards of investee companies.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Female

No. of years in Hong Kong: 10

Cantonese Speaking:

Aarti commenced her career at Morgan Stanley in their Investment Banking Division in New York in 1999. Aarti graduated Summa Cum Laude from Colgate University with a double major in Mathematics and Economics and has an MBA from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Aarti was born in India and was fortunate to receive scholarships to pursue high school in Singapore, as well as undergraduate and graduate degrees in America.

Aarti is fluent in Hindi, is married with 2 young boys and lives in Hong Kong.

Cantonese Understanding:

Pro bono Juror Services, Hong Kong’s WYNG Foundation and for the Global Institute for Tomorrow - world-class photography competitions that stress public service and social justice.

Speaking in Hong Kong at schools and university classes, events such as last year’s Hong Kong International Literary Festival, and forums held by the Asia Society. Often a commentator on local media on current issues of public interest.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Zoher is a Hong Kong boy who was raised in schools in Hong Kong, and speaks great Cantonese. Zoher is an international journalist who has participated in relevant local NGOs and forums and spoken publicly about socioeconomic issues, including diversity. He is extremely intelligent, interested in a more inclusive Hong Kong, and globally aware. Zoher would be an asset to any committee.

Cantonese Understanding:

Can say basic words. E.g. Give taxi directions Nothing

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong: Room to Read, Teach for China and Mother’s Choice charities in Hong Kong.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

A remarkable young woman who started life in almost a different world. Aarti’s story is inspiring and demonstrates that hard work and perseverance pay off. Aarti is well spoken, intelligent, and has a deep understanding of the region and beyond. Aarti is a role model.

“ “

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Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 23

Cantonese Speaking:

Candidate Profile

Business Management & Adminsistration

DEWAN SAIFUL ALAM

Chief Executive Officer

DSA International Company

Professional Experience:

Dewan’s expertise is in textile manufacturing & apparel accessories, trading and development dating back to 1992. His trade has taken him to many countries including China, USA, Australia, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Singapore, Philippine, Malaysia Taiwan and Korea. In addition, he has been doing business with Bangladesh, India, Indonesia and Pakistan.

Dewan’s educational background is from Bangladesh. He graduated in Textile Engineering from Dhaka University in Bangladesh and since then has made the trade his career.

Dewan has dedicated much of his community service to the Bangladeshi community in Hong Kong and has found ways of both giving them a voice and having their views heard as part of the ethnic minority agenda. He was awarded the Chief Executive’s Commendation for Community Services in 2013.

Dewan is married, has two daughters, and both were born and living in Hong Kong.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

Candidate Profile

Education & Training

FARZANA ASLAM

Principal Lecturer, Associate Director, Centre for Comparative and Public Law

University of Hong Kong

Professional Experience:

Farzana is a lawyer who has spent time in academia and the private and not for profit sectors. Farzana specialises in labour and employment law and maintains a special research interest in the area of business and human rights. Her specific interest is in the extent to which businesses impact upon human rights and the legal and corporate social responsibility implications that arise from this. Farzana is also an executive coach and trainer with an interest on advancing women’s leadership in the workplace.

Ethnicity: + Scottish

Gender: Female

No. of years in Hong Kong: 15

Cantonese Speaking:

Farzana has worked in both the UK and in Hong Kong. Her role with Goldman Sachs as the Head of Employment Law in Asia, from 2001-20017, gave her a unique insight into the range of employment cultures in the workplace across this geographic region. Farzana has taught at The London School of Economics and continues to teach at The University of Hong Kong, School of Law.

Farzana is married and has two children.

Cantonese Understanding:

Can speak basic social Cantonese General meaning of conversations

Member, Committee Promotion Racial Harmony, Home Affairs Department.

Member, Personalized Vehicle Registration Mark Vetting Committee, Transport Department.

Member, Asia Africa Committee, Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce.

General Secretary, The Bangladesh Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong.

Advisor, Hong Kong Scout Association, Yau Tsim District. Advisor, New Home Association, 2013-2015.

Member, Ethnic Minorities working committee, Yau Tsim Mong District council, 2009-2013.

President, Bangladesh Association of Hong Kong, 2008-2012.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

A textile engineer who became a textile entrepreneur working between Bangladesh and Hong Kong. Dewan has deep links with Bangladesh and calls Hong Kong home. He has experience sitting on a number of HKSARG and NGO committees.

Cantonese Understanding:

Can say basic words. E.g. Give taxi directions A few words only

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong: Board Member, Justice Centre Hong Kong, 2008-2016.

Chair, Board of Justice Centre Hong Kong, 2012-2016. Executive Committee, Amnesty International Hong Kong, 20072008.

Convener Human Resources Sub-Committee, Amnesty International Hong Kong, 2007-2008.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

A UK lawyer who has made Hong Kong home. Farzana has the advantage of private sector, NGO and academic experience having worked in some of the world’s best known organisations. Farzana is passionate about equality and the women’s rights.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 31

Cantonese Speaking:

Can speak Cantonese in meetings even though may need to use English

Cantonese Understanding:

Candidate Profile

Charity

& Non-Government Services

JEFFREY ALTERIN ANDREWS

Social Worker

Christian Action

Professional Experience:

Jeffrey has worked in the not for profit sector for ten years and has been an advocate for greater ethnic minority public policies. Jeffrey is one of the first ethnic minorities in Hong Kong to successfully become a qualified social worker.

Currently Jeffrey works for Christian Action in their centre for refugees. In his capacity as a social worker, Jeffrey assists in managing the welfare and other daily necessities for Hong Kong’s refugees. In addition, Jeffrey is a frequent speaker at secondary schools and public events.

Jeffrey is from Hong Kong and is a product of local public schools. His personal story is inspiring and he is a role model for the youth in Hong Kong. Jeffrey’s personal story has been featured in two published books. In 2014, Jeffrey attended and submitted a petition to the United Nations in Geneva on issues relating to ethnic minorities in Hong Kong.

Jeffrey was awarded the Certificate of Commendation from the Secretary for Home Affairs in November 2016 for his dedicated service and outstanding contribution to the enhancement of racial harmony and integration.

Jeffrey speaks Hindi, Tamil, and Cantonese.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong: Executive Committee, Hong Kong Unison.

Volunteer, SOCO.

Advisory member, HKSKH Lady Maclehose Center.

Speaker, Hong Kong International Literary Festival, 2016.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Jeff is one of the most inspirational individuals we have met. He is a role model for youth. His life story of triumph over hardship is testament to his strength of character and his moral compass. Jeff is fluent in Cantonese and we would recommend him for any board that wants a smart young Hong Kong person.

Candidate Profile

Business Management & Administration

MOHAN CHUGANI

Director Tristar Enterprises

Professional Experience:

Mohan was born, raised and educated in Hong Kong. He is passionate about Hong Kong affairs and over the last 20 years his interest has been on the livelihoods of the ethnic minority population in Hong Kong. He has spent much of his time and effort improving the overall well-being of Hong Kong’s ethnic minorities by helping them integrate into mainstream Hong Kong society.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 70

Cantonese Speaking:

Can speak Cantonese in meetings even though may need to use English

Cantonese Understanding:

General meaning of conversations

Mohan is actively involved in matters regarding the education and employment of the Indian community and it is in this capacity that he meets with LegCo members, government ministers and department and bureau heads and the HKSARG Chief Executive. His focus has been in the improvement of education, housing, immigration and other issues that face Hong Kong ethnic minorities.

Mohan’s work has extended to the NGO sector where he has worked with Christian Action to provide input on how to enhance the educational experience for ethnic minority students and the lives of (ethnic minority) street sleepers and asylum seekers.

Mohan was awarded the Chief Executive’s Commendation for Community Service in 2015 in recognition for his work on ethnic minorities.

Mohan speaks fluent English and Cantonese.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

Member, Working Group on Ethnic Affairs, Yau Tsim Mong District Council.

Member and Honorary Treasurer, India Association.

Member of the ethnic minorities sub-committee, India Association.

Volunteer, Christian Action.

President, India Association 2014-2016.

Vice-President, India Association 2012-2013.

Founding Member and Vice Chairman, Indian Resources Group, 1995.

Member, Committee of Inspection, Bank of Credit and Commerce Hong Kong, 1992.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

A fluent Cantonese speaker, Mohan prides himself at being well networked with local political leaders. Mohan has spent most of his adult life building bridges between ethnic minorities and the HKSAR government.

Most of the conversations

Ethnicity: + American

Gender: Female

No. of years in Hong Kong: 24

Cantonese Speaking:

Candidate Profile

Charity & Non-Government Services

ALIA ELIZABETH EYRES

Chief Executive Officer Mother’s Choice

Professional Experience:

Alia currently serves as CEO of Mother’s Choice, leading a team of 150 staff and 500+ regular volunteers. Alia started her career as a corporate lawyer in mergers & acquisitions and corporate finance with Skadden Arps in New York before working with Hogan Lovells in Hong Kong.

Alia brings her passion for vulnerable women and children together with her experience as a lawyer to Mother’s Choice. Alia has helped to innovate programmes that take children out of institutionalised care and move them into safe, loving, and permanent families. As part of her work, she engages widely with the legal, academic, and government communities around child protection and collaborates with the corporate sector. Alia is a strong advocate for the rights of children.

Candidate Profile

Business Management & Administration

DAVID HARILELA

CEO of David Harilela Group including Harilela George Limited, Director of Harilela Hotels Limited, Director of Hotel Holdings Limited, Founder and Global Chairman of THE ONE International Humanitarian Award

Professional Experience:

David is an entrepreneur who specialises in trading, manufacturing, licensing, and investment in stocks, properties and hotels. David also specialises in trading and developing major licenses, and has undertaken projects both locally and internationally. As an example, David’s company was the first Asian firm to secure an international multi-category license for the World Cup and worked with renowned fashion brands such as Tommy Hilfiger & Steffi Graf. Today, David’s company also serves non-profit organisations such as Rotary International. David is a hotelier and is the director of the Hotel Holdings Limited and Harilela Hotels Limited.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

When David started in his early career, his major contribution was to lead his company to create innovative consumer products and inventions. Today his business has diversified into various other industries.

Cantonese Understanding:

Can say basic words. E.g. Give taxi directions General meaning of conversations

Alia was born and raised in Hong Kong, her parents are two of the co-founders of Mother’s Choice, and she grew up volunteering alongside her six siblings through childhood. Alia received all of her education in Hong Kong before she went to the US for her Bachelor in Arts, and her J.D. in Law from Georgetown University. Alia is also the recipient of The Macquarie Group Foundation’s David Clarke Social Innovation Fellowship for Asia 2014/15.

Alia is married and is a mother of three young boys, and is pregnant with her fourth son.

Alia speaks conversational Mandarin.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong: Member, Women of Influence Conference and Awards Committee, American Chamber of Commerce.

Volunteer coordinator, and MC Links co-founder, Mother’s Choice.

Board Advisor, International Montessori School.

Youth mentor, Union Church Youth Confirmation Programme.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Alia is a Hong Kong girl who has come to her dream job working with orphans in Hong Kong through Mother’s Choice. Alia has great capacity and passion for helping the most vulnerable and her private sector legal background is a tremendous asset.

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No. of years in Hong Kong: 67

Cantonese Speaking: Cantonese Understanding:

Can speak basic social Cantonese General meaning of conversations

David is actively involved in local and international charities. He has founded five charities and other non-profit programmes whilst also remaining fully committed to various charities in Hong Kong.

David is born and raised in Hong Kong. He studied at Diocesan Boys School before obtaining his bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern California, USA. He later was given a honorary Doctorate from City University.

David is married to Avisha and has three beautiful daughters.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong: Adviser, Hong Kong Shared Good Values, since 2016. Adviser, HK WeCARE, since 2015.

International Chair, Rotary International Global Rewards, since 2014. Founding Member, Arts in Heritage Research Limited, since 2013. Vice Patron, The Community Chest of Hong Kong, since 2013. Director, The Community Chest of Hong Kong, 2007-2013.

Founder and Global Chair, THE ONE- International Humanitarian Award; THE ONE Hong Kong Humanitarian Award; THE ONE Philippines Humanitarian Award, since 2011.

District Governor, Rotary International District 3450, 2011-2012. Co-Founded Indian Community Group, in 2004.

Founder and Trustee, George and Chandra Harilela Foundation, since 2003.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong: David is a Hong Kong boy who uses his sphere of influence to make a difference in the lives of others less privileged. David is particularly interested in mentoring young people and believes that ethnic minorities must do their best to integrate into mainstream Hong Kong.

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Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 23

Cantonese Speaking:

Candidate Profile

Information Technology

JAVED KHAN

Director

iConsulting Services (Hong Kong) Ltd.

Professional Experience:

Javed is a senior IT professional with over 20 years of experience in the telecom, technology, legal and investment banking industries. His expertise is in IT service delivery, strategic technology consulting, cost effective infrastructure technology transformation, the implementation of technology in products and services and the management of technology risk, portfolio, programme and project management.

Javed has years of experience of working in main cities and financial hubs across APAC and Middle East. Currently, Javed is working in technology management and consulting, with a primary focus for his clients on strategic transformation, analysis and planning.

Javed started his career in IT support in Allen & Overy Hong Kong in 1996. Javed started his career at a fairly junior level and worked his way to becoming IT Operations & Programme Manager for Asia Pacific in 2011. Javed is a self-taught IT specialist who made full use of opportunities provided to him by his employer for self-development.

Javed came to Hong Kong, from Pakistan, as a young man in search of work opportunities. His motivation was to provide an income to his mother and his siblings. Through pure hard work and selfdetermination, Javed is a modern day Hong Kong success story. Javed is an inspiration.

Javed speaks English, Urdu, Arabic, Cantonese, and Pushto.

Javed is married with 2 children.

Cantonese Understanding:

Candidate Profile

Business Management and Administration

KNATTAPISIT KRUTKRONGCHAI

Head of Business Strategy

AIA International Limited (Hong Kong and Macau)

Professional Experience:

Knattapisit is a business executive and head of business strategy of AIA International Hong Kong and Macau, which he joined in 2010. Prior to joining the group of AIA International Hong Kong and Macau, Knattapisit served in several senior positions at AIA Group office including as Vice President of Group IT and Director of Business Strategy for AIA Group. Knattapisit also worked in GE Capital in Hong Kong and Thailand.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 13

Cantonese Speaking:

Knattapisit’s experiences’ and expertise are in business strategy, marketing, business development, customer experience, project management, life insurance and retail/consumer finance.

Knattapisit received his bachelor degree from Assumption University in Thailand and his Master of Science in Global Finance from HKUST and the New York University Stern School of Business.

Knattapisit is originally from Thailand, and now calls Hong Kong home.

Knattapisit is married with 2 children.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

Volunteer at Red Cross, takes part in beach cleaning and other community development activities.

General Manager of a society, Serving Islam Team Hong Kong, focusing on religious educational services, interfaith dialogue, co-existence and mutual respect.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Amongst the most impressive individuals we have met, Javed started his adult life young and came to Hong Kong from Pakistan in search of ways of making a living for his mother and siblings. Javed took opportunities that presented themselves and used each one to develop himself further. Javed is a tech systems person with wide global experience. He is a role model.

Cantonese Understanding:

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong: Director, Hong Kong - Thailand Business Council.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Knattapisit, originally from Thailand, now calls Hong Kong home. Having worked in both Thailand and Hong Kong in leading global companies, Knattapisit has a good grasp of the cultures of both of these geographies. His deep business background and good communication skills equip him well for board positions.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Female

No. of years in Hong Kong: 12

Cantonese Speaking:

Can say basic words. E.g. Give

Cantonese Understanding:

Candidate Profile

Charity & Non-government Services

JONNET BERNAL KUDERA

Centre-In-Charge

Christian Action Centre for Refugees

Professional Experience:

Jonnet is the Centre-in-Charge at Christian Action’s Centre for Refugees. She is responsible for strategic programme development and implementation, annual business planning,operational budgeting,as well as managing various programmes and volunteer coordination.

Jonnet has worked both on the frontline of the provision of direct services and also in management roles.

Jonnet has spent over twelve years working in various social and humanitarian welfare organisations in Hong Kong. She has served a number of beneficiary groups in Hong Kong including youth, refugees, victims of human trafficking and migrant domestic workers.

Jonnet also personally helps in the local Hong Kong Filipino community by educating domestic helpers and permanent residents on their rights and methods of accessing available resources. She has also raised funds for some distressed migrant workers to return home to the Philippines safely and for the survivors of one of the biggest calamities to ever hit the country - Typhoon Yolanda.

Jonnet is a graduate of De La Salle University, Philippines where she obtained a degree in International Studies major in Consular & Diplomatic Affairs. Jonnet has lived in Hong Kong for 13 years and is a mother of two boys. One of them is currently studying at the University of Hong Kong.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

Volunteer, Represented Hong Kong in Dragon-Boat-International Races around Malaysia, Macau, and Hong Kong, 2008, 2010, 2012.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Jonnet is yet another example of how hard work pays off and is a role model for our youth. A single mother who believes in mainstream education, Jonnet has dedicated her life to serving those amongst the most marginalised in Hong Kong. She brings management skills to her work at a local NGO and in her spare time volunteers in the community.

Candidate Profile

Business Management & Administration

NANDKUMAR LACHMANDAS

Chief Executive Officer

P. Lachman Hong Kong, Limited

Professional Experience:

Nandkumar (Nanu) is a businessman and philanthropist who started his career in Mumbai, before moving to Thailand and ultimately to Hong Kong in 1973. His current role is strategic in nature and his daily responsibility is managing a portfolio of investments.

Since 2004, Nanu has actively been involved in the YauTsim Mong District in various capacities. He has also been an active member of Rotary and the India Association.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 44

Cantonese Speaking:

Nanu has received various accolades for his contributions to Hong Kong. These include the Certificate of Commendation by the Secretary for Home Affairs for Dedicated and Outstanding Service to Ethnic Minorities in 2011 as well as Hong Kong’s Outstanding Vocational Service Leadership Award 2013-2014 from Rotary International-USA.

Nanu was born in Baroda, India where he went to primary school. He finished high school in India and attended the Davars College of Commerce in Mumbai. Nanu speaks fluent Hindi and Sindhi.

Cantonese Understanding:

Can speak basic social Cantonese General meaning of conversations

Nanu is married and has 2 grown up children.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

Member, Police NEC Liaison Committee, Yau Tsim Mong District Council.

Hon Advisor - JPC Council of Presidents, Yau Tsim District.

President, India Club

Chairman, Vocational Services, Rotary District 3450, 2013-2014

Trustee & Secretary, Hindu Temple, 2003-2017

President, Rotary Club of Kowloon Golden Mile, 2002 -2003

President, India Association, 1996-1998.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Nanu has contributed greatly to building the Hong Kong Indian community over the past few decades. His involvement has also extended beyond that to the district level. Nanu is a thinker and well-spoken businessman who is able to contribute at many levels.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 42

Cantonese Speaking:

Candidate Profile

Manufacturing and Global Distribution Business, Co-work & Accelerator Programs

DEEPAK DHARMVEER MADNANI

Founder Chief Executive Officer

Paperclip Hong Kong Services Limited

Professional Experience:

Deepak grew up in Hong Kong and Switzerland and has worked in Chile, Poland, Czech Republic, Dubai and China. He specializes in mentoring and investing in Startups and Early stage Entrepreneurs. Deepak spent a significant amount of his early career in manufacturing and product design, and owns companies in design and supply of high quality furniture to globally recognised retail brands.

Deepak is driven to address the big questions of environmental impact and the disparity of economic development and innovation in societies.

Deepak graduated from Georgetown University, Washington D.C where he obtained a degree in Finance and International Business. Deepak speaks Spanish and conversational Mandarin. Deepak is married and is a father of 3 young boys.

Deepak has been recognised as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, as a Global Visionary by UBS Bank and is a Juror for the Global Teacher Prize.

Candidate Profile

Health Sciences

GUNEET MAKKAR

Chief Medical Officer

Clinipace Worldwide

Professional Experience:

Guneet works in the healthcare and clinical research industry. She is a physician by training and has a Masters of Surgery from Rajasthan University, India and pursued a Masters and Doctor of Philosophy from Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong.

Guneet practised as a general gynecologist and then went into the field of clinical research. In the Assisted Reproduction Unit she successfully conducted research in an ethnic group of patients in Hong Kong.

Cantonese Understanding:

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong: Founder, Lung Fu Shan Environmental Concern Group.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Deepak is exactly what Hong Kong is looking for. With a background in Hong Kong and Switzerland, Deepak is a tech entrepreneur with a strong belief in contributing to the community at the same time. Deepak is founder of one of Hong Kong’s original co-workspaces and he mentors, invests and advises many startups. Deepak is dynamic and creative, and an ambassador for Hong Kong’s creative industries.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Female

No. of years in Hong Kong: 20

Cantonese Speaking:

At the Clinical Trials Centre, Guneet managed the medical research centre for conducting clinical studies and was responsible for medical and safety affairs of the trial subjects. Guneet has contributed to the operational team in planning and supervision of the conduct of studies to ensure their compliance with requirements. Guneet is involved in clinical research training and has taught postgraduate students pursuing master’s degree in Clinical Trials Research Methodology at The University of Hong Kong.

Currently Guneet is responsible for providing medical guidance and safety oversight for research projects in multiple therapeutic areas of medicine throughout Asia including China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea, Thailand and Malaysia. Guneet provides medical and scientific advice and expertise for development plans for the clinical development of new drugs. Guneet also provides medical support across local and international clinical programs to ensure procedures, policies, directives, guidelines and patient safety regulatory requirements are followed.

Cantonese Understanding:

Can say basic words. E.g. Give taxi directions A

Guneet also develops regulatory and study documents for Phases I – IV studies in various therapeutic areas, to meet agreed strategic context and international regulatory guidelines in clinical research.

Guneet is married with 2 grown up children and speaks fluent English, Hindi and Punjabi.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

Volunteer at Sikhs Medical Centre, 2006-2010.

Volunteer at St. John’s HIV Education Centre, 2006-2007.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Guneet is a medical doctor with a specialty in gynecology from India. In Hong Kong most of her time has been in medical research. Guneet has an impressive background in medicine, research, science and teaching, and would be an asset to many advisory committees in Hong Kong.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 22

Cantonese Speaking:

Can say basic words. E.g. Give taxi directions

Cantonese Understanding:

Candidate Profile

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics

JAGMEET SINGH

MAKKAR

Director, Pastiche Holdings Limited Director & Co-Founder, SkillsPlus Pte. Ltd.

Professional Experience:

Jagmeet is experienced in both commercial and technical shipping. In commercial shipping, Jagmeet is experienced in ship chartering, sale and purchase, ship finance and operating leases. On the technical side of shipping, Jagmeet has been responsible for ship management, ship building, and ship conversions.

Jagmeet is a regular contributor to various publications and frequently speaks at international conferences. Jagmeet is dedicated to promoting education in his trade, through conducting seminars, workshops and lectures for shipping professionals and students. His new firm SkillsPlus is a testimony to this dedication.

Jagmeet attended the CASS Business School, UK in his fifties along with his young son where he earned a Master’s Degree in Energy Trade & Finance. Jagmeet ranked first in a class of over one hundred and fifty university students.

Jagmeet speaks fluent Hindi, Punjabi and conversational Japanese, Bengali and Marathi.

Jagmeet is married with 2 grown up children.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

Member, Hong Kong Maritime Arbitrators Group. Home Affairs Bureau for serving on Advisory and Statutory Bodies and Public Sector Advisory.

Maritime & Aviation Training Fund Committee (2013-2014).

Lloyd’s Technical Committee (2003-2006).

Member, Shipping Consultative Committee (2003-2004).

Class NK Technical Committee 2002 onwards.

Hong Kong Shipowners Association’s Technical and Managing Sub-Committees (1999-2005).

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Jagmeet is a maritime expert who has spent most of his professional life in the shipping industry. He speaks multiple Asian languages and has advised on numerous committees. Jagmeet is smart and articulate.

Candidate Profile

Health Sciences

KARIN MUNASINGHE

Managing Director

APAC BioHealth Consulting Limited.

Professional Experience:

2017

Ethnicity: + German

Gender: Female

No. of years in Hong Kong: 15

Cantonese Speaking:

Can say basic words. E.g. Give taxi directions

Cantonese Understanding:

Karin is a professional with an MBA from London Business School & a Ph.D. in Genetic Engineering. Karin has a track record in Strategy Development & Implementation, Sales & Marketing Management, and Business Development and People Management.

Karin has worked for multinational companies such as Eli Lilly, Baxter, Medtronic & Fresenius Medical.

Karin has vast international experience having worked in the UK, Switzerland and in Hong Kong. One of Karin’s career highlights was work on the Baxter acquisition due diligence process and the post-merger integration planning.

In 2016, Karin set up a healthcare consulting business in Hong Kong. As a result of this, Karin was invited by InvestHK to curate the HealthTech Asia 2017 event, showcasing entrepreneurship and innovation in the field of healthcare (part of StartmeupHK).

Recently, Karin completed the Financial Times Non-Executive Directors Diploma. Karin speaks German, conversational French, Spanish and Mandarin.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong: Vice Chair, Healthcare Committee, British Chamber of Commerce.

Mentor, Hong Kong-based start-ups, Betatron Accelerator. Co-Founder, Healthcare Drinks.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Karin is an articulate professional who has spent much of her time in the pharmaceutical industry. She has both a business and a science background as well as global business exposure. Karin is a big fan of Hong Kong.

Ethnicity: +

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 26

Cantonese Speaking:

None

Cantonese Understanding:

Candidate Profile

Bio-Chemical Engineer Management

CHANDRAN NAIR

Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Global Institute for Tomorrow (GIFT)

Professional Experience:

Chandran is dedicated to advancing the understanding of the impacts of globalisation and turning ideas into action through practical and long-term solutions. For over a decade Chandran has advocated a more sustainable approach to development in Asia and built Asia’s largest regional environmental consulting firm (20 offices in 12 countries).

Chandran served as Director of SUSDEV 21, which developed the framework for Hong Kong, reporting directly to the Chief Secretary and Chief Executive of HKSARG. Chandran has helped governments and corporations to instill these principles into their key decision-making processes.

Chandran is a speaker at international forums (WEF, APEC, OECD, etc.) and has earned a reputation for insightful observation on geo-political realities. He is a contributor of articles to leading international media (FT, New York Times, Huffington Post, Time, etc.) and appeared on interviews on BBC, CNN, Bloomberg, Al Jazeera, NBC, etc.

Chandran’s book ‘Consumptionomics: Asia’s role in reshaping capitalism and saving the planet’ is a candid appraisal of the western-motivated consumption-led growth model that has generated a much needed momentum for economists and politicians alike, to embark on a discourse that tackles head-on the controversial political challenges of our time.

Chandran’s international photojournalism initiative ‘The Other Hundred’ serves as a counterpoint to the media consensus on today’s most important issues and seeks to celebrate the stories of those that would never make it to the Top 100 lists.

Chandran plays the saxophone and used to head a band in Africa where he lived and worked as a volunteer in the field of water supply, sanitation, and public health.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

Advisor to the Chairman, Council for Sustainable Development, HKSARG, 2004-2010.

Member, Steering Group, Council for Sustainable Development, HKSARG, 2004-2010.

Manager/Coach, Hong Kong Hockey Team, including two Asian Games, 1998, 2002.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

A fabulous thinker who brings a world view to Hong Kong. Chandran brings a fresh set of eyes and creative thinking to some of Hong Kong’s big issues and is keen to make his contribution.

Candidate Profile

Human Resources Services

PUN TEJ PRAKASH

Chairman

Gurkhas Group (G3S) Facility Management SDN. BHD, The Gurkhas Group (G3S) Holdings Limited, Gurkhas Construction & Engineering (Macau) Limited, Gurkhas Construction & Engineering Limited, Gurkhas Construction (India) PVT. Limited, Gurkhas Construction (Nepal) PVT. Limited, Gurkhas Construction Limited, Gurkha Club (Restaurant & Bar)

Professional Experience: Prakash (B.A.S.P., S.G.D.B. III), is the Founder and Chairman of the Gurkhas Group which was established in 1997.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 35

Cantonese Speaking:

Based on Prakash’s former experiences in the British Army as a Gurkha, Prakash uses a military management system to train his construction employees. Prakash employs over three hundred Nepalese workers in Hong Kong to work on various construction projects in Hong Kong and in Macau. In addition to construction, Prakash also trains and provides security guards to work in commercial, industrial and residential industries in both Hong Kong and Macau.

Prakash is effective in mediating communications between personnel, general contractors, and management teams. Prakash is most proud of his contract to build Manhattan Heights in Kennedy Town, Hong Kong.

Prakash received all his formal education in Nepal. He speaks many languages including Nepalese, Hindi, English, Cantonese, Japanese and Korean.

Prakash is married and has 4 children.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

Advisor and Member, Hong Kong Myagdi Overseas Nepalese Association, National Executive Committee.

Cantonese Understanding:

Patron, Non-Resident Nepali Association, National Co-ordination Council Hong Kong and Macau.

Chief Patron, Myagdi Overseas Nepalese Association, International Executive Committee.

Advisor, Namo Buddha Mother Committee, Hong Kong.

Advisor, Hong Kong Nepalese Federation.

Advisor, Hong Kong British Gurkha Ex-Servicemen Association.

Member, Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce.

Founder President, Myagdi Overseas Nepalese Association, International Executive Committee, 2007-2015.

Founder Member, Past Treasurer and Advisor, Non-Resident Nepali Association, International Co-ordination Council, 2003-2011

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Once a Gurkha, Prakash is an enterprising and self-made man who has made Hong Kong his home. He has developed niche businesses developing talent and bringing jobs to the Nepali community in Hong Kong. His efforts have been recognised by the King of Nepal.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 24

Cantonese Speaking:

Candidate Profile

Business Management & Adminsistration

AJMAL VICTOR SAMUEL

Chairman

OCTO 3 Group Holdings

Professional Experience:

Ajmal is a recognised business leader in the areas of financial infrastructure and transactional technology and a HKSAR national level athlete.

Ajmal‘s company, OCTO3 specialises in provision of Payment and Clearing House Systems, Solutions and Consultative Advice to Central Banks, new FinTech Startups, and Global Financial and Banking organisations. Ajmal also participates in, and mentors new ventures as a venture capitalist via various funds.

Prior to setting up his own business, Ajmal worked at Cityline (HK) Ltd. for 15 years as CEO and President.

As a national level athlete, Ajmal officially represents Team Hong Kong in the discipline of single scull rowing and has been ranked in numerous international events such as the Asian Games and World Championships. He is an avid sportsman and also participates in various international sports competitions such as marathon and triathlon at a professional level. In addition to competition, Ajmal is a local sports activist, ensuring inclusive access and representation for disabled athletes in Hong Kong.

Ajmal started his career in Pakistan and was a Commissioned Military Officer in the Pakistan Army holding rank of a Captain. It was during his service in the army that he was injured.

Ajmal is also the recipient of the Rick Hansen Difference Maker Award in 2011 and the RTHK有能者聘之嘉許⾏動，⾃強不息⼤獎 in 2011.

Candidate Profile

Law Public Safety & Corrections & Security

BRAR HARPRABDEEP SINGH

Barrister-at-Law

Admiralty Chambers

Professional Experience:

Harprabdeep was called to the Hong Kong Bar in 2015. Since then Harprabdeep has developed a predominantly civil practice and appears regularly in the High Court and District Court in a wide range of commercial litigation and arbitration disputes, with a particular focus on international trade.

Harprabdeep is routinely instructed in international arbitrations as counsel and tribunal secretary. His related High Court practices regularly involves cross-border disputes.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

No. of years in Hong Kong: 26

Cantonese Speaking:

Harprabdeep holds an LLB Hons. (First Class) from the City University of Hong Kong. He also has a Postgraduate Certificate in Law from the University of Hong Kong and a Bachelor of Civil Law from the University of Oxford.

Cantonese Understanding:

Ajmal is married locally and is a naturalised Chinese Citizen.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong: Committee member, Sir David Trench Fund – HKSAR Government

Founding Member, Association for Universal Accessibility Hong Kong

Member, Hong Kong Triathlon Association- Para Triathlon Committee Mentor and Invited Motivational Speaker at various international corporates and educational institutions

Member, Single Scull Rowing (ASMIx class), Team Hong Kong

Bronze medal, Asian Championships in Beijing, China, 2015

Ranked 20th in the World, World Championships in France, 2015

Silver Medal, European Rowing Championships in Italy, 2015

Silver Medal, Australian National Championships in Sydney, 2015

Ranked 4th in Asia Asian Games in Seoul, Korea, 2014

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Ajmal is impressive in so many ways and would be an asset to many organisations and boards. His professional experiences are based around the areas of technology and corporate management. He has also excelled and represented Hong Kong in various sports. Ajmal is a remarkable and exceptionally talented individual in many ways.

Can speak Cantonese in meetings even though may need to use English

Cantonese Understanding:

Can say basic words. E.g. Give taxi directions General meaning of conversations General meaning of conversations

Harprabdeep is a Hong Kong boy who studied at local mainstream public schools where he learned his Cantonese. He is a role model for the youth in Hong Kong and demonstrates in action the value of hard work, perseverance and self- determination.

Harprabdeep teaches law students Commercial and Criminal Law and assists law students with mastering advocacy in the legal context.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong: Guest lecturer, City University of Hong Kong.

Volunteer, Mentor and Career and Education Advisor, Sikh Youth, Sikh Temple.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

A young, smart and impressionable man. Harprabdeep is a Hong Kong boy who speaks fluent Cantonese and worked hard to become an internationally recognised lawyer in his field. An Oxford graduate, he is amongst the finest we have seen and a role model for many.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Female

No. of years in Hong Kong: 19

Cantonese Speaking:

Can say basic words. E.g. Give taxi directions

Cantonese Understanding:

Candidate Profile

Marketing, Sales & Services

NEERJA (AASHNA) BHARTKUMAR SUJANANI

Director

Print Plus International Limited

Professional Experience:

Neerja is the Founding Director and Head of Sales for a company named Print Plus International Limited that she co-runs and co-owns. Her business specialises in designing, printing, website development and management, marketing and corporate event management.

Prior to this, Neerja was the Head of Production and Distribution for Asia Pacific for The Economist Group for 10 years overlooking weekly magazines and other production and distribution requirements around the region. Neerja has also worked for the United States Publishing company ‘Global Finance’ as Head of Operations in Hong Kong managing their Hong Kong office and Asia operations. Prior to that, in India, Neerja, had launched her own printing business which specialised in the print and design.

Neerja is originally from India and now calls Hong Kong home. She is a graduate of the University of Bombay in Economics and Commerce.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

Member, Rotary Club of Kowloon Golden Mile, Hong Kong District 3450.

Member, The Entrepreneurs Club, Hong Kong.

Member, The India Club

Member, Women in Publishing Society, Hong Kong

Member, Marketing Team, The Public Non-Profit Event ‘Hanuman Carnival,’ The Chinmaya Sewa Ashram and Central Harbourfront Event Space, Hong Kong.

Area Governor – Hong Kong Rotary Clubs – District 3450, 2012-2013

Board Member, The India Association, 2010-2012.

President, Rotary Club of Kowloon Golden Mile, 2010-2011

President, The India Club of Hong Kong, 2009

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Neerja is an entrepreneur who set up businesses both in India and in Hong Kong, and is a self-made woman. Co-founding her company with another woman, she uses her international experience in publishing and event management, and serves the local SMEs in Hong Kong. Neerja is involved in many capacities in volunteering in the community.

www.zubinfoundation.org

Candidate Profile

Education & Training

HUSEINA TYEBKHAN

School Director

International Academy of Film & Television (Hong Kong) Limited

Professional Experience:

A fourth generation Hong Konger, Huseina is an educational leader with over twenty years of experience and specialism in managing vocational and post-secondary courses of studies. Huseina is a curriculum developer, teacher, coach, and mentor.

Ethnicity:

Gender: Female

No. of years in Hong Kong: 45

Cantonese Speaking:

Can speak Cantonese in meetings even though may need to use English

Cantonese Understanding:

Most of the conversations

Huseina has worked in Hong Kong, India, Canada and Sri Lanka. Amongst the roles she has had in Hong Kong is her extensive career with the Sara Beattie Group. There she held a number of senior and regional management roles. Huseina has also worked at the Hong Kong Institute of Continuing Education in programme management and course development, and currently manages the International Academy of Film and Television in Hong Kong.

Within her local Hong Kong community, the Dawoodi Bohra community, Huseina plays an important role by actively volunteering. She also provides education-related activities for the other ethnic minority groups in Hong Kong.

Huseina completed both an Advanced Diploma in Education with Distinction from the Institute of Education, London, and a BSc in Management from the University of London.

Huseina speaks fluent English, Cantonese, Gujarati, and conversational Hindi.

Voluntary Contributions to Hong Kong:

Treasurer, Public Affairs Convenor, Vice-President, President, The Hong Kong Association of Business and Professional Women

Member, PVRM Vetting Committee, Transport Department

School Representative, HK Federation of Private Educators

Member, Revenue Committee, Hoseinee Society of Hong Kong

Member, Managing Committee, Bunnayatul-Eiddiz-Zahabi Hong Kong

Teacher, Madrasah Vajahiya

Member and Tutor, Care@HK-EMS.

Quote from Spencer Stuart Hong Kong:

Huseina is a Hong Kong girl, passionate about education. Huseina is a specialist in vocational and alternative tertiary education paths and has had many positions in Hong Kong and around the region. Huseina has extensive experience in working with women as well as racial minorities.

www.zubinfoundation.org

This is a list of individuals who have significant experience in directly working with ethnic minorities to address specific questions about employment, education, health, welfare and other issues. These individuals would be an asset to NGOs or specific government committees that work directly with ethnic minority service users.

COMMUNITY CONNECTORS Gary AHUJA

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

Professional Experience:

Gary has been the elected District Councillor in the Yau Tsim Mong District four consecutive times from 1988 to 2004, for 16 years.

Gary has a deep understanding of the Indian community as well as his specific district. He was the first ethnic minority to become a District Councillor in Hong Kong.

Aruna GURUNG

Ethnicity:

Gender: Female

Professional Experience: Aruna works extensively with the Nepali Women’s Association and has a deep understanding of the education and welfare needs of the Nepali children including those with special education needs.

Aruna is a Member of the Personalized Vehicle Registration Marks Vetting Committee Transport Department of HKSARG and Member of the Women’s Commission, Labour and Welfare Department of the HKSARG.

Muhammad ANWAR-ULHAQ

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

Professional Experience: Muhammad works closely with the various government departments on translation, proofreading and vetting of materials from English to Urdu.

Muhammad is a Public Relations Officer & Media Advisor in a pro bono capacity to the Pakistani Students Association Hong Kong.

Poonam Vijayprakash MEHTA

Ethnicity:

Gender: Female

Professional Experience:

Poonam is an educator and counsellor. She works with grassroots families in the ethnic minority communities in Hong Kong mostly through her NGO, Be The Change.

Poonam also works with teachers of non-native Chinese speaking children.

Poonam’s past experience includes being Deputy School Principal at the Victoria schools in Hong Kong.

Notan Hassanand TOLANI

Ethnicity:

Gender: Male

Professional Experience: Notan is an active member of the Indian community. He helps at the individual and family level and assists in navigating education, employment and health related concerns.

Notan is also active in the Hindu Temple Kowloon, Overseas Indian Organisations, Council of Indian Associations, India Club and India Association.

Next Steps

Call to action

Diversity List 2016 started as a pilot, an idea that quickly gained recognition by the HKSARG in ways that we could not have imagined. We witnessed first hand how Mrs Carrie Lam, HKSARG Chief Secretary, personally spearheaded greater inclusion on HKSARG advisory bodies. We were delighted that 5 of the 16 candidates on Diversity List 2016 were extended new appointments (see appendix 1). This is a tremendous success and we hope that the next Chief Executive of Hong Kong will also embrace Diversity List fervently.

Our ambition is to educate the Hong Kong community to be more inclusive and our hope is that HKSARG and NGOs in Hong Kong will actively recruit ethnic minorities to their advisory boards and committees. This would enable HKSARG and NGOs to be even more effective and in addition, they will also become role models for the entire Hong Kong community and Greater China community. They will help impress upon the people of Hong Kong that ethnic minorities are an integral part of Hong Kong, that this sector is also a valuable asset of Hong Kong and that Hong Kong will go from strength to strength through the integration and collaboration of all ethnicities.

Readymade directory of ethnic minorities

The Zubin Foundation is calling on the HKSARG and NGOs in Hong Kong to tap into the abundance of talents and expertise in our Diversity List 2017 (22 individuals), Community Connectors 2017 (5 individuals) as well as Diversity List 2016 (16 individuals) for representation on their boards and committees. In addition, there are also over 110 individuals, nominees of Diversity List 2016 and Diversity List 2017, who are of strong standing in our community and who are also enthusiastic about contributing to Hong Kong. This is truly a robust pool of outstanding individuals whose intentions are for the betterment of Hong Kong and who are readily available to help Hong Kong at our community’s calling. We strongly hope that all the names on our lists will be successfully engaged by HKSARG and local NGOs in due course.

The definition of “Ethnic Minorities”

The Zubin Foundation recognizes the shortcomings of the current interpretation of “ethnic minorities”. We know that many find this term marginalising and disrespectful. We are therefore planning to engage with the community at large, particularly the youth in Hong Kong, to re-define and re-create this terminology. As part of this effort and subject to interest and funding, we would also like to include the Caucasian population of Hong Kong who considers Hong Kong their home in Diversity List 2018.

Identifying outstanding youth

We believe that they are the future of Hong Kong and as such, the voices of ethnic minority youth must be resonated during youth discussions and youth initiatives in Hong Kong.

In order to help identify ethnic minority youth committed to bettering Hong Kong, The Zubin Foundation intends to bring on a list of young people in 2018. Spencer Stuart and ourselves are both excited about expanding our outreach to this demographic sector.

Engaging a wider scope

For the purpose of developing Diversity List 2018, The Zubin Foundation wish to identify individuals from as broad as possible within Hong Kong’s demographic and social spectrum. In order to do this, we will need our outreach to be wider. As such, we plan to setup a Diversity List 2018 Committee with representatives from the various communities in Hong Kong.

Working together to create a greater impact

At the Zubin Foundation, we value collaboration with all groups regardless of their political beliefs and their religious and racial backgrounds. We look forward to working together with all of you to enhance the voice of ethnic minorities in Hong Kong.

As always, we welcome your thoughts and comments. Please email us at info@zubinfoundation.org

APPENDIX 1 - New appointments

As of 1 February 2017, five of the 16 candidates on the Diversity List 2016 have been appointed to HK government advisory committes. Below are the details:

APPENDIX 2

The Zubin Foundation reached out to the following organisations as a part of its stakeholder engagement.

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37

38 Philippine

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