Dear Members and Friends

In this issue we salute the work of our member-exclusive Mental Wellbeing Interest Group (MWIG) co-chaired by Sujata Tiwari and Sally Choo. Members convene to share how they support each individual’s mental health at the workplace and how they work to improve mental health literacy to eradicate the remaining stigma associated with mental health. The central message is simple: mental wellbeing is as important as physical and financial wellbeing for effective, happy and productive lives.

It says a lot about us humans that it took a global pandemic for more of us than ever before to realize the importance of mental wellbeing. Each one of us experienced very similar dislocations to our lives, choices and freedom of movement. None more so than corporate leaders who, used to phalanxes of support pre Covid, suddenly found themselves alone in front of a laptop at home - just like everyone else.

It is thanks to their authenticity and bravery in talking about their mental health challenges, brought about by the increased isolation during circuit breakers and lockdowns, that opened the closet door. Everyone finally realized we humans are all the same no matter how rich, smart, senior or well-connected we may, or may not, feel. Imagine that! We came to this astounding conclusion all thanks to a virus.

I want to challenge all corporate leaders to build on their pandemic induced authenticity and bravery in relation to mental wellbeing and do themselves and their teams an even bigger favour. I want them all to commit to co-create and co-sustain a positive workplace culture which will ensure the lessons learned during the pandemic about mental wellbeing are not forgotten. Let me know if you need help to achieve this commercially savvy goal.

Have a good week ahead.

Yours faithfully
Victor Mills
Chief Executive