In a vibrant tribute to their 75th year shaping global legal practices, Baker McKenzie Thailand is igniting the spirit of entrepreneurship among women through an inspiring coalition with Khon Kaen University and UN Women. This collaborative venture marks a significant stride towards gender equality and women’s empowerment, with a meticulously crafted “training of trainers” program at its heart. As they join forces, these esteemed institutions are laying down the groundwork for a future where women, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, can chase their business dreams with confidence and skill.
The epicenter of this transformative journey is the Faculty of Business Administration and Accountancy at Khon Kaen University, a beacon of excellence and innovation in the educational realm. Fuelled by a mission to sculpt the leaders of tomorrow, the faculty integrates the Competency-based Economies Formation of Enterprise (CEFE) methodology into their curriculum. This action-packed, experiential learning approach is tailor-made to foster the entrepreneurial and management prowess required for sustainable economic progress. It’s a dynamic blend of academic rigor and real-world savvy, nurtured by a faculty renowned for propelling students, staff, and community members towards success.
Amid the serene landscapes of Khon Kaen, from May 13-20, 2024, four intrepid women entrepreneurs, handpicked by UN Women’s WE RISE Together initiative, embarked on this program. Baker McKenzie Thailand, not just a global legal titan but also a bastion of sustainability and equality, was at the helm, supporting this groundbreaking initiative. Peerapan Tungsuwan, a key figure at Baker McKenzie and an advocate for sustainable business, shared his enthusiasm for empowering women and promoting gender equality through educational excellence and strategic partnerships.
Khon Kaen University’s commitment to addressing societal needs and nurturing 21st-century skills is evident in its innovative programs. Assoc. Prof. Pensri Jaroenwanit, the guiding force behind the Faculty of Business Administration and Accountancy, envisions this training as a catalyst for empowering underprivileged women to forge their entrepreneurial paths, thereby strengthening the socioeconomic fabric of communities.
At UN Women, collaboration is the linchpin of progress towards gender equality. The organization’s involvement in this program, as highlighted by Supapim Wannopas, is a testament to their dedication to creating a resilient, equitable society by fostering entrepreneurial skills and networks among women.
Baker McKenzie’s 75th anniversary is a celebration of more than just longevity. It’s a reflection of the firm’s inherent commitment to making a positive social impact, championing diversity and inclusion, and enhancing access to justice and opportunity. Wynn Pakdeejit, the firm’s Managing Partner in Thailand, and Peerapan Tungsuwan both emphasize the firm’s dedication to empowering women entrepreneurs as part of this legacy. Each initiative, including their support for this training of trainers program, is a step towards a more inclusive, equitable, and diverse society and industry.
This collaboration between Baker McKenzie Thailand, Khon Kaen University, and UN Women is more than just a training program. It’s a beacon of hope, a catalyst for change, and a testament to the power of strategic partnerships in breaking down barriers and uplifting women entrepreneurs. As these organizations look towards the future, their commitment to fostering legal skills and entrepreneurial spirit in women promises to ignite a wave of innovation and equity that transcends borders and generations.
Amazing initiative by Baker McKenzie! It’s impressive to see big firms stepping into social responsibility fields and genuinely making an effort to empower women. Education and entrepreneurship are key to equality.
True, but how much of this is for PR? Big corporations often engage in social initiatives more for the optics than real change. While I hope this makes a difference, I’m skeptical about the motive.
I get your skepticism, but I think any effort, regardless of motive, that results in tangible benefits for underserved communities is positive. It’s better than doing nothing at all.
It’s not just about starting businesses; it’s about creating sustainable models of empowerment. These initiatives need to track long-term impact to prove their worth. Otherwise, it’s just a drop in the ocean.
Absolutely! Measuring the real impact on these women’s lives and communities will be the true test of success. Let’s hope Baker McKenzie and the rest keep up the support.
Seems like a glorified photo op to me. Can these programs genuinely counteract the systemic barriers women face, or is it just a band-aid on a deeper societal issue?
It’s definitely a band-aid, but every little bit helps. Systemic change takes ages; initiatives like this can bring incremental improvements at least.
Exactly, how many women can this program realistically help? We need global policy changes, not just training sessions to bring about real gender equality.
Policy change is a long road. In the meanwhile, initiatives like these can inspire and equip women to start their own revolutions. It’s a step in the right direction.
Partnerships like these are the future. It leverages the strengths of different sectors —business, academia, and nonprofits— to address social issues. Truly a model for others to follow.
Until we see the long-term outcomes, I’ll reserve my applause. Many such partnerships start with fanfare but fizzle out without creating real change.
Initiatives like these make me hopeful for the future. It’s a reminder that with the right partners, real change is possible. Kudos to all involved!
Hope is great, but action is better. Let’s not just congratulate; let’s get involved, support, and push for more initiatives like this. Everyone plays a part in gender equity.
Every small step towards women’s empowerment and gender equality is a leap for society. Celebrating this effort and hoping for many more!
Celebration is premature. Let’s see sustained effort and real outcomes before we declare victory. Good first step, yes, but the journey is long.