Derrick Tsang, Executive Director of Rocco Design Architects Associates, has played a pivotal role in the firm's international success, focusing on innovation and sustainability in architecture. Under his leadership, the firm has expanded its influence in Hong Kong and mainland China, maintaining a strong workforce despite a competitive business environment. Tsang emphasizes the importance of adapting to modern architectural trends and environmental considerations. The firm is also preparing for a future beyond its founder, Rocco Yim, by fostering a brand identity that stands independently. Tsang's leadership is characterized by collaboration and a commitment to high standards, positioning the firm to continue shaping global skylines.

I-PEX, a key player in electronic manufacturing, has been pivotal in providing high-speed digital connectors for major brands. Under the leadership of Diana Peh, the Singapore office has navigated significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a surge in demand and operational restrictions. Peh's leadership has been instrumental in steering the company through these times, focusing on digital transformation and workforce reskilling to address post-pandemic challenges. Her leadership style has evolved to be more inclusive, fostering strong relationships within and outside the company, contributing to I-PEX's ongoing success and future readiness.

Ava Walker and David Jepson, both with personal connections to the foster care system, are dedicated to improving the lives of foster children. Walker, a former foster child, founded Beyond Our Kin, a charity focused on supporting foster youth through various programs. Jepson, who grew up with foster siblings, supports the charity's mission. Their efforts aim to address the shortcomings of the foster care system and provide foster children with better opportunities. The charity has received support from various individuals and organizations, and Walker's story is being adapted into a film to further spread awareness.

BHS Kinetic, a key player in Singapore's logistics sector, is undergoing a transformation under CEO Bryan Lim. The company, known for its reliable transportation and warehousing services, is expanding internationally with new offices in Malaysia, the Netherlands, Taiwan, and the United States. Lim emphasizes innovation and agility, introducing new digital solutions and services to meet customer needs. BHS is also committed to sustainability, installing solar panels and exploring ways to reduce carbon emissions. The company values long-term partnerships with suppliers and focuses on internal talent growth, aiming to be recognized globally for its dedication to customers.

Dr Holly Andrews explores the advantages of slow thinking in the workplace. The Labour government plans to remove the qualifying period for unfair dismissal claims, and a new code of practice for dismissing and re-engaging employees is introduced. Acas encourages employers to allow staff time off for the Olympic Games. Carers UK advocates for caring to be a protected characteristic due to discrimination against unpaid carers. A care assistant wins an unfair dismissal claim at the Edinburgh Employment Tribunal. Microsoft prioritizes security, linking it to employee performance reviews and compensation. Changes to the Skilled Worker Visa present challenges, but the former intra-company transfer route may offer a solution. The repeal of the Strikes Act 2023 receives widespread support from unions.

During the APEC gathering in Thailand, innovative Thai dishes featuring unconventional ingredients like insects and fermented foodstuffs were showcased, reflecting the country's ambition to become a South East Asian food tech hub. Thailand's year-round agricultural season, vibrant agrifood sector, and focus on the bio-circular green economy position it as a potential leader in future food technologies. Santi Abakaz, CEO of Tastebud Lab, highlighted Thailand's suitability for developing alternative proteins. Eran Gronich, CEO of Israeli company Flying Spark, is leveraging Thailand's expertise in using insects in cuisine to produce a protein powder from fruit fly larvae, which can be used in various food products. This aligns with Thailand's goal to be the 'kitchen of the world' and its capacity for scaling up food tech innovations.

The article discusses the challenges of renewable energy's unpredictability due to the intermittent nature of sources like the sun and wind. It highlights the use of NAS batteries as a solution for storing energy when production exceeds demand, which can then be used during power outages or when generation is low. NAS batteries, which use sodium and sulphur electrodes, are capable of delivering high-power output over extended periods. The article mentions an installation in Japan that can power 30,000 households for a day. Additionally, it covers the Mongolian government's initiative to expand renewable energy through the Upscaling Renewable Energy Sector Project, which includes the nation's first solar power generation facility with a battery storage system.

The article discusses the experiences and achievements of a Saudi Arabian woman mountaineer, who faced extreme challenges while climbing Denali and Everest. Despite being stuck in harsh conditions on Denali and not reaching the summit initially, she returned three years later to conquer it. Her determination began in childhood when she convinced her father to let her hike Kilimanjaro. Training in Dubai, she prepared for her climbs with intense dedication. The mountaineer credits her family's support for her success and is working on a book to thank them. She has become a role model in Saudi Arabia, promoting women's sports and climbing, and has a growing presence as a public speaker, addressing diverse audiences internationally about her journey and achievements.