SheXO Forum 2024

The Deloitte Singapore SheXO Program hosted its annual SheXO Forum on 19 March 2024, centred around the theme “Inclusive leadership in an age of change”. The event was held at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore and joined by over 60 C-suite business leaders and Deloitte leaders.

The session commenced with a welcome address by Yvaine Gan (Deloitte SEA SheXO Program Leader), followed by an opening address by Shariq Barmaky (Deloitte Singapore Country Managing Partner). During his opening address, Shariq highlighted the importance of leading by example to champion inclusivity and foster a culture of respect, empathy, and belonging at the workplace.

This was followed by a presentation on Inclusion for Impact by Paviter Kaur (Deloitte SEA Consulting Senior Manager), who delved into the case for inclusive leadership in the new world of work, and the importance of going beyond checking a box and translating intentions into an impact-centred DEI approach. Sharing findings from the Deloitte Thought Leadership From Optics to Impact - Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the workplace, Paviter highlighted key diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) issues faced by workplaces in Southeast Asia that leaders and organisations will need to address when developing and implementing a holistic DEI strategy.

The session wrapped up with a thought-provoking panel discussion on “Inclusive leadership for the workforce of the future”, joined by Elizabeth Haenle (SAGE Worldwide Co-Founder and President), Fermin Diez (National Council of Social Service Senior Advisor), Sharon Tan (DBS Singapore Chief Operating Officer), and Suhaimi Zainul-Abidin (Quantedge Chief Executive Officer), and moderated by Jade Leong (Deloitte Singapore DEI Leader).

During their panel discussion, our speakers shared on key aspects of inclusive leadership, including fostering a sense of belonging at the workplace and respecting each individual’s differences. The discussion delved into challenges leaders may face, highlighting the importance of recognising and overcoming unconscious bias, actively seeking inputs and viewpoints from diverse sources, and understanding the unique needs of all staff members, to foster an inclusive environment that supports individuals to be their best selves. The conversation also explored the importance of active listening as a key leadership skill – by giving each individual an opportunity to contribute their ideas and opinions and creating an equitable platform for discussion, leaders can address specific needs and concerns, make more informed decisions that benefit the entire team, and foster a culture where all voices are heard, valued, and respected. Closing the session, Jade wrapped up the afternoon of meaningful conversations with the quote, “diversity is a fact, but inclusion is an act”, highlighting that inclusive leadership should be undertaken with a purposeful and intentional approach.
 

About the SheXO Program
The Deloitte SheXO Program supports the personal and professional development of established, emerging or aspiring women leaders. By championing diversity and inclusion, we hope to create a supportive environment for them to be inspired, grow, connect and drive meaningful change in communities to advance women in leadership.

To be part of the SheXO Program or find out more, please reach out to us at seashexoprogram@deloitte.com.