Loïc (Loïc André, Country Manager, WISE Employment)

Distinguished guests and friends,

It’s wonderful to see so many young people and employers gathered here today to celebrate diverse talent and advance inclusion in the workplace. Firstly, I want to take a moment to thank the WISE Employment Hong Kong team, who have created this platform for young people with diverse abilities and inclusive employers to make meaningful connections. Your commitment to inclusion and empowerment is truly inspiring, and I have no doubt that the impact of your work will extend far beyond the career fair today.

Leaving education and entering the workplace is both an exciting and challenging time for any young person. For those with special educational needs and diverse abilities, finding a role that aligns with their ambitions in an organisation that accommodates their needs can present additional hurdles. While our research shows that many employers are willing to hire candidates with diverse abilities, some are concerned about providing accommodation for them or are unsure about how to help them succeed in their roles. That’s why today’s event is so important. Through dialogue and conversations, employers can gain a deeper understanding of the value these young people bring to the workplace as well as their individual needs, while candidates can learn how to effectively communicate their skills and strengths. These exchanges will foster trust, break down misconceptions, and create a foundation for lasting success.

Like WISE Employment, we at the Equal Opportunities Commission are committed to creating equal access to employment opportunities for all. Through law enforcement, research, advocacy, and education, we provide support to different organisations and sectors to become more diverse, equal, and inclusive. If you are interested to know more about our work, please come by our booth to have a chat with us. We want to work with you all to build workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Before I conclude, I want to say a few words to the young people here today. This is your moment to shine. Remember that you all have unique strengths, perspectives, and skills to contribute. So, don’t be afraid to share your stories, ask questions, and show the employers here today what you are capable of.

Thank you once again for inviting me here today. I wish you all a productive day filled with meaningful conversations, valuable connections, and the start of many success stories. Thank you.