Win-Win for Everyone Across Professions
I started my legal career as a commercial litigator. I loved being a litigator, and I was fortunate to belong to a firm that not only supported, but also actively encouraged all its attorneys to engage in pro-bono work.
One of the programmes my former firm supported was an NGO board training / placement programme for young professionals run by the city of Philadelphia, and I was selected to participate in the programme. During that time, I saw firsthand the way in which professions could help NGOs further their mission in a myriad of ways, e.g., assisting with contract review, providing legal advice and guidance on strategy, advocacy and legal or regulatory matters. And it was there that I also learned how critical good governance was to an NGO’s ability to fulfil its mission.
When I moved to Hong Kong in 2010, I found myself at a crossroads, as there was not much of a demand for a US trained litigator. Fortunately, an opportunity arose in overseeing corporate governance for a global financial services firm. It was through this role that I was first introduced to KELY by my then colleague, who was also a member of KELY’s Board of Directors.
In the for-profit world, good corporate governance is considered crucial for building trust with stakeholders, attracting investment and promoting long-term success. My former colleague knew that the same was also true for NGOs like KELY, and she asked me whether I could help KELY in that regard. I did so on a volunteer basis at first, and then later, as a Member of the Board of Directors.
NGOs often lack resources and knowledge of what constitutes good corporate governance. Also, many confuse the terms “Company Secretary” with “Corporate Governance” or think that they are one in the same (and in fairness, this happens in the for-profit world as well). However, corporate governance refers to the broader system of rules and practices that govern how an organisation is managed.
Good corporate governance helps NGOs like KELY not only build support with their external sponsors but also enhance their internal operations which in turn, helps them fulfil their mission. That is why it is critical for NGOs to have this assistance from professionals and others who can help them set up a system to flourish. More importantly, donors in Hong Kong are also increasingly demanding that NGOs demonstrate that they have good governance practices in place that foster both transparency and ethical conduct.
Throughout my time at KELY, I have been privileged to work with people in both Management and on the Board who understand the benefits of good corporate governance and the value it brings to the organisation. I strongly encourage anyone with a professional background to investigate ways you can leverage your “day-job” skills to create a win-win experience for both you and the organisation! You can find out more about collaborating with KELY here.
If you are inspired by our work and would like to help us continue making a difference, please consider making a donation to support KELY Support Group. Your contribution can make a real impact.
This article was written for and a featured piece in KELY’s monthly Newsletter. To subscribe, please click here.
