Hong Kong, 21 March 2016, The International Day on the Elimination of Race Discrimination in Hong Kong.

The Zubin Foundation today launched Race for Opportunity: Diversity List 2016, Hong Kong’s first list of ethnic minorities that are qualified and committed to serve on Hong Kong’s government committees. The list profiles 16 individuals across various professions who nominated themselves and who have been through a screening process with Spencer Stuart, a leading recruitment firm and partner on the project.

“Hong Kong’s ethnic minorities excluding Foreign Domestic Helpers represent 3% of the population and is growing. The population of ethnic minorities is young in age and is an important talent pool at a time when Hong Kong has a rapidly ageing population. This population brings local knowledge, self-defines with a Hong Kong identity and is committed to staying in Hong Kong. This population should be included in advisory committees of our government and also on voluntary and corporate boards”, said Shalini Mahtani, Founder of The Zubin Foundation.

The 16 individuals named today as part of Race for Opportunity: Diversity List come from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds. Alice Au, Board Director of Spencer Stuart, partner on this project said, “Along with the base criteria we also evaluated the candidates based on attributes we use for board candidates. This is a group of hardworking, talented, dedicated, and passionate people many of whom have endured adversity as minorities but persevered, who have gone on to make significant contributions to their professions and communities. This is a group of people who are role models, not only for ethnic minorities groups but also for the general population in Hong Kong.”

Mrs. Carrie Lam, Chief Secretary of Administration of the Hong Kong SAR Government was the official guest to commemorate the Launch of the Race for Opportunity: Diversity List 2016 and deliver the opening remarks. “It should be our common goal to build a society that embraces cultural diversity and racial harmony. These values underpin peace and stability which are so very important for Hong Kong – a place we call home.” said Mrs. Carrie Lam.

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