Jason Cruz’s Post

🌍 Fostering a Diverse and Inclusive Team Culture 🌍 In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, it is surprising that we often still do not pay enough attention to developing a strong team culture. A good team culture not only enhances collaboration and productivity but also embraces diversity as well as open-mindedness. It is crucial to create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their background or beliefs. I want to share an exciting initiative that my colleagues Ferhat Çalışkan and Younes Sadik have spearheaded. They have proposed a voluntary collective (one day) fasting during the holy month of Ramadan, followed by a decentralized, hybrid Iftar (breaking of the fast) celebration held simultaneously across different locations of PwC offices. This initiative holds numerous benefits, one of which is fostering transparency and understanding of different cultures and religions within our diverse teams. By participating in this voluntary fasting experience, we have an opportunity to gain insights into the traditions and practices of our colleagues who observe Ramadan. This not only promotes empathy but also encourages open dialogue and appreciation for our differences. Transparency about other cultures and religions within our teams can lead to increased awareness and understanding, ultimately strengthening our bonds and creating a more inclusive work environment. It allows us to celebrate diversity and harness the power of varied perspectives, leading to enhanced creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. I encourage everyone of my colleagues to support Ferhat and Younes' initiative by participating in the voluntary fasting and joining the decentralized Iftar celebration. Let's embrace this opportunity to learn from one another, build stronger connections, and foster a truly inclusive team culture. Together, we can create an environment where diversity is celebrated, and everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique talents and perspectives. If you have any questions or would like more information about the event, please feel free to reach out directly to Ferhat or Younes. They will be more than happy to provide you with all the details and address any concerns you may have. Let's come together as a team and make this initiative a resounding success! #DiversityandInclusion #TeamCulture #RamadanInitiative #EmbraceDifferences

After 33 years of serving PETRONAS, we recently bid farewell to our SVP of HR, Pn. Farehana Hanapiah. In her final week with the organisation, we had the honour of hosting her as a keynote speaker for our "Hello Hires Onboarding" programme at PETRONAS Leadership Centre (PLC). What better way to sign off than to inspire the company’s next generation of leaders. I had the pleasure of serving in Pn. Fare's office a few years ago. Here are three things I learned from the experience: (1) Trust: I was recruited to do people strategy under her leadership. I had zero HR experience, minimal working engagement with her, and was doing joint venture management at the time. Her trust in taking me in and allowing me to learn on-the-job while making (many) mistakes is one that I will forever cherish and pay forward in nurturing others in my team. (2) Belief: As a seasoned auditor and portfolio strategist, Pn. Fare would always raise the bar during our review sessions. As much as she knows the answer to a question, she would always want us to go through the process of exploration and discovery. This taught me the value of believing in others to experience progress and growth at the workplace. (3) Care: As the Chairperson PLC, Pn. Fare is someone we seek counsel from. In most cases, going to the board can be a nerve-wracking experience. With her at the helm, presenters are put at ease with her professionalism and compassion. She creates a psychologically safe environment for us to step up to the challenge and view it as an opportunity. On her final day of work, our social media feeds were filled with streams of positive tributes for her. It’s inspiring to see how one person can have so much impact on those she has worked with. I could only hope to achieve half of that when my time comes. In the meantime, I’ll just try to do what she does as much as I can. Thank you for everything, Pn. Fare!

IS WORKING IN SHELL AN IRON RICE BOWL? 🍚 Hi connections, a belated Selamat Hari Raya Eid-al-Fitri to those celebrating! 🌃☪️ I get asked the above question a lot. For context, in Chinese-speaking cultures, a "rice bowl" refers to your source of employment, and an "iron rice bowl" refers to a very steady job - i.e. a job for life. Was very fortunate to be one of the participants during Shell C+P Executive Vice President, Machteld De Haan and SVP Finance, Rahim Oberholtzer's visit to Shell Bukom. Took this opportunity to express optimism for the future. Shell is, and still is, a great place to work. My past year has been one filled with deep learning from so many experienced colleagues, and a warm "kampung" spirit. 🌟🛖 I've grown to realize that in today's volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) world, there is not really such a thing as a job for life. Perhaps my outlook is shaped by my experience. Graduating in late-2019, a few months into my first job, Covid-19 hit fresh grads like me hard. Working in an EPC firm, your job survival depends on the company's order book, so there was always this undercurrent of uncertainty through my first 2 years on the job. Working in 3 countries, 3 different companies in my first 3 years also meant meeting new people and new challenges abound every few months. So... does working in Shell give you an iron rice bowl? No. But neither does any other company out there. Market forces might make... or break your rice bowl at any time, if you're not prepared. 🤯 To thrive in this VUCA world, what we need is a spirit of continuous improvement, life-long learning and taking challenges with calculated risks. And not to forget, nurture and cherish having collaborative and supportive teammates. Not just in Shell, but also the team at IChemE - National Early Careers Committee Malaysia and mentor Christina Phang who have supported each other and many others throughout the pandemic. P.S Attached a photo of the Japanese art of Kintsugi - repairing with gold - applied to a broken bowl. Enhance your own "rice bowl" with gold ✨ - both soft and hard skills! #wjbites #vuca #kintsugi #worklifebalance

Last two weeks, IFF conducted the 2024 Global Learning Week - an annual event for all IFFers to learn together and grow further. IFF Indonesia also have the chance to conduct a local event with the Inspiring Leaders Talk: Get Ready & Prepare Your Career Journey featuring Pak Natanael Wendi Sugianto. It's been a pleasure for Indonesia IFFers and some colleagues from other country to learn from our Senior Leader who really give the example on how he is growing in career and development. There are few points that I quote from our discussion and could become the tips for all of us in preparing our career journey: 1. Expose yourself and do things beyond your role so you become reliable and credible for the next opportunity. 2. See things from our supervisor perspective to make us learn and able to support them from a bigger picture. 3. The 5 life rules: Focus, Calm, Organize, Always Respect Others and Help Others. I personally learn from this session and believe IFFers too. Thank You Pak Natan for sharing your career journey with us. Happy learning and growing all! #WeareIFF #InsideIFF #GLW2024 #IFFIndonesia

At 21, I reached the final Assessment Centre round at Unilever Vietnam, competing with top candidates. During our task to brainstorm solutions for a struggling company, one student confidently suggested promoting a shampoo product to Southeast Asia. The group agreed, but I countered, “I think entering China is a better idea.” Laughter erupted, and embarrassment washed over me. I knew my suggestion was risky, and I feared I might lose this opportunity—an opportunity I had worked tirelessly for—because I chose to speak up. I thought I had failed. Instead, I was invited to a final interview with Unilever’s leaders and was ultimately selected as one of 15 Management Trainees from over 1,000 candidates. This experience highlighted the importance of resilience and individuality in standing out. My idea, my courage to think differently, had set me apart. Years later, I still encounter similar situations where my ideas are judged or dismissed. Recently, as a speech evaluator at the Bukit Merah Public Speaking Club, I faced an impromptu question: “Would you choose pizza or prata to promote to tourists?” I replied, “I would promote a country’s culture and people, like Singapore.” Afterward, the coach commented, “Vanny, you should evaluate the pros and cons of pizza and prata and pick one. Your answer is out of frame. Be careful—you might lose in a contest because of your creativity.” But I stood firm. My answer reflected my authentic self, and I appreciated the support from Melody Byrd, the Division A Champion. A few days ago, my mentor advised me to take a different direction for my International Speech. He worried that my style might not resonate with the crowd. I explained to him the worst is I can't find myself in my own story if I keep revising my script to satisfy the crowd. My story might not please everyone, but it represents who I am. Winning a contest isn’t my priority; growing and transforming through my journey is. I’m grateful that my mentor understood and supported me wholeheartedly. Through these experiences, I’ve learned a crucial lesson: Staying true to myself is paramount. Even when faced with doubt or ridicule, I must believe in my ideas. I may lose contests, but I refuse to lose my identity. The world is vast, and I believe there are people out there who will understand and embrace my differences. Just as my Unilever boss did that day, and just as many of my bosses and mentors continue to do. This world is rich with diverse colors, and its beauty lies in harmonizing differences. Imagine a world where no one dared to challenge the norm, to speak out, to explore new directions. Think of the breakthroughs, innovations, and transformations we would miss without the courage to stand apart. So, my friends: Dare to be different. Embrace your unique ideas. Stand firm in your beliefs, even in the face of doubt. In doing so, you contribute to a vibrant world that celebrates diversity and inspires change.

Have a global mindset, be open-minded, and say yes to new things... things tend to work out... Pick up some wisdom from my friend and colleague Eva in the enclosed article. I've had the good fortune of working with Eva in a couple of different organizations... and I would also add that there is real value in doing whatever it is you choose to do properly from the start... #HRSuperstar #OneHeartbeat #BuildingABetterWorkingWorld

🎉 #LAWA by Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp) Takes the Stage Again! 🎉 Does your organization lead the pack in building an inclusive and sustainable workplace? Gear up—the LIFE AT WORK Awards are rolling out the red carpet for trailblazers in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)! 🏆 Why Step into the Spotlight? 🌟 Capture the Limelight: Earn accolades for your groundbreaking DEI strategies. 📈 Benchmark Brilliance: Mingle with the best and elevate your workplace practices. 💼 Magnetize Talent: Sport the LIFE AT WORK badge and become a beacon for top talent. How to Throw Your Hat in the Ring: 4 easy peasy steps!!! 1. Hit the Web: Dash over to lifeatwork.my. 2. Pick Your Battle: Dive into the award categories and pick where you shine the brightest. 3. Rally Your Proof: Assemble all your impressive work on DEI and sustainability. 4. Launch Your Entry: Submit your form and let your successes do the talking! Dates to Circle: Submissions are open now—don’t miss your cue to dazzle! Let's toast to your commitment to crafting a future that's not only brighter but fairer for all! 🌍✨ Annapooranee Suppiah Mahuran Saro Sariki Thomas Mathew David Tham Yicheng

Few days before we welcome the month of Ramadan ☪️. In a global landscape of the workplaces and companies, the value of diversity remains very important! As our societies become increasingly multicultural, fostering an environment of inclusivity and understanding is essential, both within the professional and personal life. With Ramadan approaching, it presents a timely opportunity to reflect on how we can embrace #inclusivity and support the #diversity of our colleagues who observe fasting, while also demonstrating respect for external stakeholders who may also be participating in this occasion. While diversity emphasizes representation, inclusion practices helps to foster a sense of belonging among various groups. Taking the time to educate oneself about Ramadan and actively displaying support for fasting colleagues can significantly contribute to cultivating this sense of belonging. You might wonder, how can we embody inclusivity during the month of Ramadan? ↪ Embrace curiosity and encourage open dialogue by asking respectful questions. Demonstrating genuine interest fosters a sense of inclusion and understanding. ↪ Managers can discreetly inquire if their team members require any specific accommodations to facilitate fasting during work hours. ↪ In a global context, be mindful of time zones when scheduling meetings, avoiding conflicts with Iftar. A quick online search for time differences and the location of your colleague can help in this regard. ↪ Refrain from publicly questioning colleagues about their fasting practices or lack thereof, respecting their personal choices and privacy. ↪ Avoid making light-hearted remarks about colleagues abstaining from coffee or food during the day. ↪ Exercise sensitivity by refraining from consuming food or beverages during face-to-face or virtual meetings, especially if your camera is on. And don't overlook the power of a simple gesture, extend warm wishes of "Ramadan Kareem" to those observing the holy month. By embracing these practices, we not only foster a culture of inclusivity but also demonstrate our commitment to respecting and celebrating the diversity within our workplaces and communities. Ramadan Kareem! ☪️ #inclusion #diversityandinclusion #respect #global #multicultural #diveristy #international #dei #deistrategy #culture #community #diversetalent #workplace

With a great respect and admiration for an individual whose leadership, dedication, and personal journey have deeply inspired me. It was at the end of 2018 when I had the opportunity to move to MCOT, and that’s when I got to know a remarkable figure – the Terminal Manager, who later became an OIM. What struck me initially was how little I knew about this individual’s background. It didn’t even cross my mind that he had started his career as a process technician. To think that someone could rise through the ranks, from technician to OIM, is not only impressive but a clear testament to the opportunities Petronas provides to its employees for career growth and development. It’s an eye-opener to see how the company supports its people, helping them achieve their fullest potential through hard work, dedication, and the right mentorship. From the very beginning, there was something unique about him—an aura of confidence and leadership that made me think, Could I be like him one day? His firm attitude, the trust he places in those around him, and his ability to manage with both authority and care for the welfare of employees and contractors, are qualities that I deeply admire. He has a way of managing that isn’t just about results, but also about people—about nurturing growth, fostering teamwork, and ensuring that everyone under his leadership feels valued. It was this combination of qualities that made me decide to attend the Generativ Culture engagement session after finishing my night shift. I wanted to hear him speak, to learn from his experiences and insights firsthand. And I can honestly say, it was an experience that left a lasting impression. His ability to communicate his thoughts with clarity, his deep understanding of management, and the way he leads by example—these are qualities that have truly inspired me. His leadership isn’t just about overseeing operations; it’s about thinking beyond the present and making decisions that benefit the whole team. He’s shown me the importance of having a clear vision while managing day-to-day challenges with pragmatism and compassion. He approaches leadership not as a position of power, but as a role of service—to guide, support, and empower those around him. I want to express my deepest gratitude to this individual name OIM Effendie Bin Johari, who has not only been a great leader but a mentor and an inspiration to many of us. Your leadership has taught us that success is not just about reaching the top but about lifting others along the way. Your example reminds us that with the right attitude, trust, and dedication, anything is possible. Thank you for being such an inspiring figure, and for showing us all what true leadership looks like.

Joining a professional community isn’t just about networking. It’s about shared purpose, continuous learning, and growing together. Looking back on my journey with the Institute of Internal Auditors Indonesia, I realize how much a community can shape us. Here’s what I’ve learned: 👉 We’re stronger together ↳ Collaboration makes us better. 👉Learning never stops ↳ Every perspective adds value. 👉Support through tough times: ↳ having a community that understands helps us keep going. If you’re thinking about joining a professional community, do it! The benefits go beyond skills and resume points. You’ll find a place that inspires you and helps you grow. (Thank you, IIA Indonesia, for giving me this space. I’m grateful every day.) Picture: Wearing the official jacket of The IIA Indonesia’s Board of Governors #internalaudit #ITaudit #digitaltransformation