Kota Kinabalu: A forum titled “Building Allyship for a Sustainable Future” will be jointly organised by Lean in Malaysia Sabah and the Sabah International Convention Centre in conjunction with International Women’s Day on March 8.Lean in Malaysia Sabah is a circle dedicated to women empowerment and is part of Lean In, a global community dedicated to helping women achieve their ambitions.
Lean in Malaysia Sabah 19 was established in March of 2019 to support women in Kota Kinabalu for building self-confidence, for sharing life and work experiences to help each other have more support to go through challenges.
“This year, our goal is to increase awareness and celebrate the accomplishments of our own women and allies who have achieved success locally, nationally, and worldwide,” said Lean in Malaysia Sabah 19 co-Founder cum Organising Chairperson, Michelle de la Harpe-Germani.
“We will also talk about the hurdles they faced on their way to where they are now, risk management, and business sustainability.
“Given the situations we have all encountered over the last two years, we believe that such themes are quite pertinent. I think it’s fantastic that this year’s theme, #breakthebias, is a time when people value and celebrate their differences.
“It is not only important for a woman’s work advancement, but it also motivates her to invest in her personal development and have the confidence to apply for a promotion, start her own business, or simply stand out in her community,” she said.
The celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) is an essential opportunity to demonstrate a commitment to women’s equality free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.
A moment to launch new programmes and actions, honour women’s accomplishments, and promote awareness in an environment that values and celebrates diversity.
Registration will begin at 11.15 am, and the forum will begin at 11.30 am. Participants will be able to network over lunch in accordance with current Standard Operating Procedures after the session concludes at 1 pm.
“We intend to have an interactive session where guests will feel free to voice their thoughts, ask questions, and seek advice on how to support and celebrate women,” she added.
Meanwhile, co-Founder of Lean in Malaysia Sabah Hanna Wong Abdullah said: “In Kota Kinabalu, we’ve been preaching to the choir for several years to commemorate International Women’s Day.”
“This year, however, things will be different. This time, we’re asking for and celebrating our allies: those who stand by women and encourage them to shoot for the stars, tear down barriers, and be the best they can be. We’ll hear from speakers from all backgrounds to be inspired to continue #breakingthebias with greater strength and optimism,” she said.
The invited speakers are Ria Solutions (M) Sdn Bhd Business Development Director, Datin Fauzirah Zainun, Rema Synergy LLP and Positive Performance Academy Co-Founder cum Sabindo Nusantara Sdn Bhd and Gaya Shipping Sdn Bhd Director, Johan Amillin.
Other invited speakers includes, Employer Brand and Talent Attraction Marketing Advisor for Malaysia, Philippines and Australia, Celest Lo, and Founder cum owner of Zara’s Boutique Hotel, Eliza Goh.
The forum will be moderated by Confidence Coach cum Rema Synergy CEO and Co-Founder and Growth Specialist of YesHello Sylma Jepin.
The event is a non-profit event and charged at cost in support of all women. Tickets are sold at RM78 per person and the last day of registration is March 6, noon.
For more inquiries, please contact the organising chairperson, Michelle de la Harpe-Germani at 0198232000 or view the link on the International Women’s Day website: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/Activity/17964/Building-Allyship-for-a-Sustainabl e-Future-Luncheon.
