EOC EMerging Talent Internship Programme 2021

The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) is proud to have supported The Zubin Foundation’s EMerging Talent Internship Programme 2021 which culminated yesterday (29 September 2021) with an event to acknowledge the companies and interns who took part in the programme. The EOC congratulates the non-ethnic Chinese (NEC) student interns as well the companies which provided these valuable opportunities to them. Recognising the value of job internships for future career prospects and at the same time, the difficulties that NEC students have in securing these openings, the Zubin Foundation created the EMerging Talent Internship Programme which is in its second year. Fifty NEC students interned in 32 host companies over the summer, a significant jump since last year. The EOC supported the programme by inviting signatories of its Racial Diversity & Inclusion Charter for Employers to provide 70% of the internship positions.

Mr Ricky CHU, Chairperson of the EOC said, “We are aware of the challenges and barriers faced by NEC youth, especially those from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, in getting job opportunities and career breakthroughs. The Zubin Foundation’s internship programme is a great way of boosting their future career prospects through giving them exposure, experience and confidence. Internship experience has become increasingly important in the eyes of employers and by bringing together prospective interns and employers, this programme helps bridge the gap for NEC students who may not be able to get one on their own.”

According to Ms Shalini MAHTANI, Founder and CEO of The Zubin Foundation, “Internships are critical to giving ethnic minorities an opportunity to gain valuable work experience which employers value. In the past, feedback from employers has been that ethnic minorities have lacked this. By enhancing their employability, we are improving the prospects of these youth.” EOC Members Mr Mohan DATWANI and Ms Anna THOMPSON, who attended the recognition event and presented certificates to the interns and company representatives, urged more companies to offer real-life business exposure to marginalized youths in future, as the benefits are mutual.