“Dear AustCham Members and Friends,
October, despite the somber global backdrop, has been a month of inspiration, unity, and growth within our AustCham community. In the face of fear and uncertainty, we, as business leaders, professionals, and individuals, are presented with a choice – to Forget Everything And Run OR Face Everything And Rise. At AustCham, we choose the latter. We choose to rise together, not succumbing to divisions, but rather embracing our shared humanity, empathy, and understanding.
The unrest in the Middle East has cast a shadow of concern and uncertainty worldwide. Yet, within our community, we believe in the power of unity and understanding. We urge all of you to stand firm in your empathy, to listen, learn, and lead with compassion. And, by fostering understanding, we can build bridges and work towards a world free of fear and divisions. Bringing people together through Business, Connections and Community is what we do and believe in at AustCham.
And in October, we did just that by successfully launching NextGen, an inspiring community for young professionals, young entrepreneurs, and those young-at-heart. It was also the first of our 4-part TedX style talk and series, held at one of our new members’ restaurants, Aesop’s Rooftop where over 100 of our next generation gathered.
It was a night filled with inspiration, insightful speakers, and positive energy. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our supporters, especially our enthusiastic Board members who brought along the next generation of future leaders. Thank you to Andrew from Restaurant Developments (KFC), Matt from BDO, Jon from JLL, and the entire board for supporting our launch. Special mention to the Linfox team, CEO, Ian, Country Head, Raymond and our VP, Saj for bringing in 20+ Linfox emerging leaders. Your support, alongside our speakers and the AustCham team, made this event a resounding success and we cannot thank you enough.
Another successful event in October was our Business Cocktails Reception, a night of Business and Connections hosted by H.E Dr. Angela McDonald at the Ambassador’s Residence. It brought together 100+ business leaders and symbolised the strength of our AustCham network. The camaraderie, the business opportunities, and mutual respect was second to none. It is at the heart of this thriving Australian and Thai business community where connections are made and business partnerships are solidified. Importantly an opportunity to showcase and say thank you to all our wonderful sponsors. Our Platinum Sponsors Linfox and Kingsgate. Our Gold sponsors ANCA Machine CNC, ANCA Manufacturing Solutions, Bangkok Hospital, Bevchain, BlueScope, Meinhardt, Minor International and TMX. Our silver sponsors BDO in Thailand, dwp and WHA Group, and our Bronze Sponsors Blackmores, King’s International School Bangkok and Mazars. Thank you for your ongoing support to the Chamber.
Looking ahead and as we move forward, we invite each of you to actively participate in our community and Chamber by attending our events, joining the sub-committees and reaching out to our directors, sharing your ideas, and your positivity because our members are the driving forces behind our success and we can only make it better with your support, engagement and feedback.
You can see this in the growth and value that’s been added within the Chamber, particularly the SME Committee led by Matt and the Legal and Advisory Committee led by Khun Chaiwat. Their recent initiatives, including the informative coffee morning session on “Unlocking Growth: The Latest BOI Privileges for SMEs and Entrepreneurs” and the informative Tax Update for Foreigners in Thailand, garnered significant interest and participation. These events were tailored to members needs, reflecting our commitment to providing valuable content, information and updates.
We’re excited (and I hope you are too) about the future of AustCham and all the wonderful plans that we have as a board to take it to the next level. Importantly, the value and opportunities it holds for our members.
Together, we can turn this Chamber and community into a force for good, giving back to the industries and communities we love. However we can only do this, if we are united in rising above fear, embracing unity, and building a better tomorrow for our AustCham members and greater community.
Speaking of giving back and community, our CARE Package Program is back and this time, we’re reaching out to orphanages and children across Thailand!!! So, this festive season, join AustCham in spreading happiness and supporting those who need it most! Imagine the joy you can bring to a child’s face with just 500 Baht! Each CARE Package contains essentials like school bags, coloring books, pencils, and toys to bring a smile to a child’s face! Plus, your donation supports the orphanage with cooking provisions, blankets, towels and resources they need to care for the children.
To buy a CARE Package and donate, go to AustCham website, click the QR code on your bank app, and donate just 500 Baht per CARE Package. Your generosity can change lives. Donate, donate, donate! Let’s come together and create a brighter future for these deserving children and give back to our community!
Here’s to Business, Connections and Community.
Joana Button
Director at AustCham Thailand
