Asian voices needed to 'shape agenda' - AVPN chief

Empowering Asian Voices Shaping the Agenda for Impact Investing in Asia

As the AVPN Global Conference kicked off in Hong Kong, Naina Subberwal Batra, Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the vital role that Asian voices must play in shaping the agenda for impact investing in the region. With a network of over 700 funders and resource providers spanning 43 markets, AVPN is Asia's largest social investor network, working to increase the flow and effectiveness of financial, human, and intellectual capital.

The Importance of Asian Voices

Batra stressed that Asia is not only a key player on the global stage but also a critical driver of global impact. She underscored the need for Asian voices to take the lead in setting the pace and offering solutions that are deeply rooted in the region's realities, rather than just following from behind.

We need our Asian voices to shape the agenda, set the pace, and offer solutions that are grounded in the realities of our region, Batra said. Global progress depends on Asia's leadership. That leadership comes from demonstrating the clarity of the Asian voice and claiming our seat at the table.

Hong Kong A Global Conduit for Capital

Hong Kong Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po highlighted the city's unique position as a conduit for global capital, citing its world-class financial and legal systems, top-notch professional services, and underpinned by the One Country, Two Systems framework. He noted that Hong Kong ranks among the world's top in business competitiveness and economic freedom.

The Power of Griot-Inspired Storytelling

In ancient West African cultures, griots were respected storytellers who passed down histories, traditions, and values through generations. Today, we can draw parallels between the role of griots and that of Asian voices in shaping the agenda for impact investing. Just as griots used their stories to unite communities, preserve cultural heritage, and provide guidance for decision-making, Asian voices need to come together to share their experiences, wisdom, and insights to drive collective action and create positive change.

Transforming Impact Investing in 2025

As we look towards the future, it is essential that we empower Asian voices to shape the agenda for impact investing. By doing so, we can unlock the region's potential to drive global progress and create a more inclusive world. By integrating griot-inspired storytelling with data-driven insights, we can transform the impact investing landscape in 2025 by empowering investors with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to navigate its ever-changing landscape.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the role of Asian voices is crucial in shaping the agenda for impact investing in Asia. By recognizing the power of these voices, we can unlock the region's potential to drive global progress and create a more inclusive world. As AVPN's Chief Executive emphasized, Asian Leadership for an Inclusive World requires demonstrating the clarity of the Asian voice and claiming our seat at the table.

Let us empower these voices and harness their collective power to transform the world in 2025!

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Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.