8.30 -9.00 

Registration & Networking Breakfast sponsored by GIC - come early for barista coffee (sponsored by GIC) and artisan tea (sponsored by Oliver Wyman)

9:00 - 9:03

Welcome by FWA Singapore President, Jessie Toh, Global Treasurer, Coda

9:03 - 9:05

Introduction to Symposium by FWA Champion Engagement Chair, Lily Chia, Head of Regional Member & Client Coverage, SGX Group

9:10 - 9:20

FWATalks

FWA presents our very own "TedTalks", with Deborah Ho, a well-known industry leader who has had an extraordinary career and an accomplished personal life. She will speak on a topic that is important, impactful and personal to her. We can't wait to hear from her!

Deborah Ho, Head of Singapore and Regional Head of Southeast Asia, BlackRock

9:25 - 10:05

Gender Diversity - How has it evolved?

• How has the Singapore financial industry evolved in the last few years in advancing gender diversity? Has female representation improved in senior management levels? 

• The recent times have posed challenges for advocates of DEI. Is this cause for concern or a passing phase? Is gender diversity still important to organisations? 

• Is intersectionality still too sensitive to discuss - how race, class, sexuality and other identities intersect with gender? How is this affecting the workplace?

10:10 - 10:50

Is Gender Diversity Alienating Men In the Workplace?

• In a 2024 survey by Ipsos, a leading market research company, 48% of Singaporeans think that we have gone so far in promoting women’s equality that we are discriminating against men. 57% of Singaporean men echoed this sentiment as opposed to 29% of women. 

• What does this reflect and does it call for a mindset shift on both sides?

• How can we cultivate male allies both at the senior and junior levels? How can we help the younger men too, many of whom now take on more home responsibilities than previous generations?

10:55 - 11:35

Intergenerational Dynamics in the Workplace - How can we make it work?

• In a rapidly ageing society and workforce, how can we best create an environment where everyone brings their best to the table? 

• How can inter-generational dynamics be harnessed for greater effectiveness, productivity and innovation? 

• What are the challenges which older women and men face in maintaining relevance and inclusion?

• Does reverse mentoring help bridge the gap?

11:40 - 12:00

The Very Serious Debate: Experience is more important than AI

A fun and interactive session, where Champions bring on their wit, high energy and a double dose of humour as the house debates the motion “Experience is more important than AI”! Why do we need that many humans when AI does a much better job at a fraction of the time? Or do we?

The defending champions in the 2023 edition will take the proposition and a new team of contenders will take the opposition.

The audience’s votes will determine the winning team - who will win?

12:00 - 12:10

Closing Remarks & Photo Taking

12:10 - 1:00

Networking Lunch sponsored by GIC