In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards ethical business practices among SMEs in Hong Kong and Macao. These cities have been facing mounting scrutiny for their business practices, particularly in areas such as corporate governance, environmental responsibility, and social justice. As a result, there has been a growing awareness among businesses regarding the significance of ethical behaviour. Not only does it benefit the community and the environment, but it also has the potential to enhance financial performance and ensure long-term sustainability for businesses.
The Deignan Award for Responsible Entrepreneurship, named in honour of Dr. Alfred Deignan, who devoted his life to education and social service, is designed to recognise the dynamic business landscape in Hong Kong and Macao. The award aims to encourage sustainable practices, corporate social responsibility, business ethics, and ESG (namely Environment, Social, and Governance) among SMEs in both Special Administrative Regions (SARs). The award winners will be announced on 25th March 2023, at The Chinese University of Hong Kong.
The Deignan Award is a joint effort between Wofoo Social Enterprises, Hong Kong and the Macao Ricci Institute at the University of Saint Joseph, Macao. As the principal organization behind the award, Wofoo Social Enterprises is deeply committed to promoting responsible entrepreneurship, “Creating Shared Values” and “Harmony”. The Deignan Award is one of its key initiatives that reflects the organisation’s mission to encourage sustainability and responsible business practices that create positive social impact in Hong Kong. On the other hand, Macau Ricci Institute aims to promote the values of honesty, integrity, and openness to different cultures while highlighting Macao’s cross-cultural charisma. The institute has been 2 advocating for business ethics and corporate social responsibility in Macao for the past 20 years, and the Deignan Award was launched to further communicate and promote these values.
The Deignan Award also receives support from various other organisers, such as the University of Saint Joseph in Macao, the Hong Kong International Institute of Educational Leadership, and the Centre for Catholic Studies at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Additionally, it is supported by The Macao Institute for Corporate Social Responsibility in Greater China and Globethics.Net in Geneva.
Deignan Award for Responsible Entrepreneurship was officially launched on 22nd April 2022, in hybrid formats. The entry period for the award was free of charge and ran until 31st October 2022. Throughout the period, a series of events were hosted to share the core values and relevant topics of the award, including both online and offline Public Forums, as well as an Online International Symposium.
SMEs in both Hong Kong and Macao that employ fewer than 100 persons and meet entry criteria are eligible for the award. It has attracted a diverse group of applicants from various industries. The winners of the Deignan Award will be unveiled at the award ceremony. They were judged on several criteria in regard to respecting human dignity, business ethics, fairness, disadvantaged, environment, and entrepreneurial spirit. The Judging Panel represents a broad range of circles, including the public authorities, social service organisations, academia, caring partners and industry players. They are: Dr. Roy CHUNG, GBS, BBS, JP; Hon. Andrew LAM Siu-lo, SBS, JP; Ms. Melissa K. PANG, BBS, MH, JP; Prof. LEUNG Wing-Cheung, William, GBS, JP; Ms. Ruby O; Ms. Nacky Kuan and Mr. Rui P. Martins.
The Steering Committee has provided various supports and resources throughout the judging period. Dr. Joseph Lee, the Vice-Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Deignan Award, aims to foster the development of a shared vision among business leaders for creating a more inclusive and positive society. He firmly believes that sustainable societal development can only be achieved if enterprises embrace a sense of social responsibility. According to Dr. Lee, 3 business leaders who prioritise social responsibility can pave the way for a brighter future by contributing to the development of their enterprises and the betterment of society.
For further information, please visit the Deignan Award official website at https://www.deignanaward.org/ or contact Secretariat of the Organising Committee.
Hong Kong: E-mail: Waverly Yeung | [email protected] Tel: (852) 3651-5392
Macao: E-mail: Sofia Sou and Brian Chao | [email protected] Tel: (853) 2853-2536
About Wofoo Social Enterprises
Founded in 1997, Wofoo Social Enterprises is a collaborative platform that provides a wide range of services. Wofoo is committed to cooperating with the government, business sector, academia, social groups and people from various walks of life, so that resources can be pooled to offer high-quality and up-to-date social services. Our projects emphasise both innovative ideas and sustainable development, as well as aim to strengthen the general public’s commitment and contribution to the society.
About Macao Ricci Institute
Macao Ricci Institute is a non-profit, study and research institution dedicated to fostering better mutual understanding between China and the world community. Offering a unique blend of cultural, professional, and research programmes, the purpose and method of the Macao Ricci Institute are best summed up in its links with the city of Macao, the person of Matteo Ricci, the Society of Jesus, and the people of China. Through its programs, publications and services, 4 the Macao Ricci Institute gives witness to the advantages that all share through a continued and mutual search for intercultural understanding.
Media Contact Email: Annya Lai | [email protected] Tel: (853) 2870 2218
