ZIM Talk: Building a Better Workplace - Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

On March 5, 2025, Womentors proudly hosted the workshop titled Building a Better Workplace: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion at ZIM, an international shipping company. This event celebrated International Women’s Day through a thoughtful exploration of how diversity and inclusion can transform organizational culture.

The session kicked off with a brief introduction highlighting the role of women in the workplace, particularly in Hong Kong and the broader APAC region. Participants learned about the significant progress women have made, alongside the persistent challenges they face in achieving leadership roles. This laid the foundation for a deeper discussion on empowering women in leadership and the importance of creating a culture of respect and inclusion.

One of the key segments of the workshop focused on practical strategies for combating bias, using insights from Lean In: 50 Ways to Fight Bias. Participants engaged in discussions about the six types of unconscious biases prevalent in the workplace and explored how these biases can impact decision-making and team dynamics. By understanding the nuances of bias, attendees were better equipped to identify and address these challenges within their own teams.

The heart of the workshop was a collaborative discussion where participants split into groups to tackle real-world scenarios related to company culture, networking, mentorship, and supporting working parents. This interactive approach fostered open dialogue and allowed colleagues to share experiences and best practices. The insights gained from these discussions demonstrated the value of diverse perspectives in problem-solving and innovation.

As the workshop drew to a close, we emphasized the importance of active listening, open communication, and implementing policies that support equity and respect. By the end of the session, participants left with a renewed commitment to making ZIM a place where diversity is celebrated, and inclusion is practiced daily.

The positive feedback from attendees underscored the workshop's impact, highlighting the shared commitment to fostering a workplace culture that values and empowers every individual.

Building a Better Workplace was not just a workshop; it was a call to action for all ZIM employees to embrace diversity and work collaboratively towards gender and racial equity. Together, we can create a more inclusive environment that not only benefits employees but also enhances organizational performance and innovation.

Let’s continue to champion these values and make ZIM a leader in diversity and inclusion!