Manufacturer Forum: Dhaka

  • Cascale Event

On March 6, 2024 we hosted over 200 attendees at the Manufacturer Forum: Dhaka under the theme “Catalyst for Change.”

Date & Time
March 06 2024 | 09:00 - 18:00 (+06)
Location
Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel, Dhaka
  • Program
  • Practical Information
  • March 6, 2024
8:00 am - 9:00 am

Check-In

9:00 am - 9:05 am

Welcome to the Manufacturer Forum: Dhaka

  • Dr. Laxmikant Jawale, Regional Lead, South Asia & Southeast Asia, Apparel Impact Institute

    Laxmikant is the Regional Lead for South Asia at the Apparel Impact Institute (Aii). In this role, he is responsible for creating and implementing a decarbonization strategy for the apparel sector within the South Asia region. Laxmikant’s primary focus is aligning Aii’s Carbon Leadership Programs methodology to drive facility-level impact and cultivate best practices and market insights tailored to the region. He actively participates in managing and executing Aii’s recruitment efforts and ongoing partnership initiatives with apparel brands, manufacturers, and service providers throughout the South Asia region. Additionally, Laxmikant takes charge of program management for the Climate Solutions Portfolio within the same geographic area. He has wide experience of audits, consultancy and providing bespoke training in South Asia and Southeast Asia Region. Laxmikant holds a Ph.D. (Tech) in Fibres & Textile Processing Technology from the University of Mumbai, India.

    LinkedIn

9:05 am - 9:15 am

Opening Address

Kick off your Manufacturer Forum: Dhaka journey with our Executive Vice President, Andrew Martin, as he delivers the opening address under the theme “Catalyst for Change.” Join us for an inspiring kickoff to set the stage for the transformative discussions that lie ahead.

  • Black and white headshot of Andrew Martin
    Andrew Martin, Executive Vice President, Cascale

    As Executive Vice President, Andrew is responsible for delivering strategic and operational leadership for the organization. While continuing to oversee the Membership, Stakeholder Engagement, Collective Action, and Public Affairs teams, as second-in-command at Cascale he is responsible for driving growth of the organization to ensure it can scale impact and deliver value to members. This involves broader strategic development of the organization, including into new verticals / adjacent product categories, development of new revenue streams, and expansions of key partnerships.

    Prior to joining Cascale, Andrew was at amfori, the leading business association for open and sustainable trade, where, as VP Services, he was responsible for global operational activities. In addition to a strategic role in the development of the vision and strategy of the organization, Andrew managed membership services, led the implementation of global social and environmental audit assessments, including launching a pioneering audit integrity program, and also the largest capacity building program of its kind for social and environmental performance in global supply chains.

    Andrew has a degree in philosophy and theology from King’s College London, an MBA with distinction from the University of Exeter, where he was awarded ‘Dissertation most likely to change global thinking,’ and a postgraduate qualification in team coaching, from UWE, Bristol. During his extensive career, including more than 20 years in global textile manufacturing, Andrew has worked for a multi-national corporation, his own consultancy, and more recently in the education and non-profit sectors.
    A highlight of his work and interest is the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, and its philosophy of Gross National Happiness, an alternative progressive values-based model for measuring and guiding economic, societal, and personal well-being. He is currently based in the seaside town of Looe in Cornwall in the Southwest of England.

9:15 am - 9:30 am

Opening Keynote

  • Headshot of Nishat Hamid
    Nishat Hamid, SDG Standing Committee Member, Brand BGMEA

    Ms. Nishat N. Hamid is a multifaceted professional with extensive experience and a strong commitment to sustainability. Currently she serves as the Executive Director at Shasha Denim and a Director at Shasha Garments as well as EOS Textile Mills. Additionally, she contributes to sustainable development efforts as a member of the BGMEA’s standing committee on Sustainable Development Goals and Circular Fashion Unit.

    Ms. Hamid has a diverse educational background, including a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, followed by a Master in Business Administration from the State University of New York (Buffalo), USA. She also has a second Masters in Climate Change and Development from Independent University Bangladesh to understand the local climate change-related dynamics.

    Beginning her corporate finance career in New York in 2006, Ms. Hamid was in internal audit at Deloitte & Touche and also a consultant at the World Bank Group’s private sector wing, International Finance Corporation (IFC) in Dhaka. Upon her return from New York, she transitioned to corporate banking roles at Citibank N.A. Dhaka and Dubai.

    Passionate about sustainability and circularity, Ms. Hamid has been focused on these aspects in her family’s denim business. She also dedicates time to education, teaching part-time on courses such as Sustainable Development, Analytical Techniques, etc for tertiary degrees at a private university. Furthermore, her commitment to entrepreneurship extends to her role on the board of EO Bangladesh, a global peer-to-peer networking platform for entrepreneurs.

    LinkedIn

9:30 am - 10:10 am

Driving Decarbonization: Collaborative Strategies & Climate Action

Join this session to learn about the collective efforts to achieve a 45% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030 and accelerate sustainability in consumer goods. Learn about the Manufacturer Climate Action Program (MCAP) by Cascale and the Climate Leadership Program (CLP) by Aii. Discover how these programs complement each other to drive emission reductions and foster sustainability.

  • Black and white headshot of Joyce Tsoi
    Dr. Joyce Tsoi, Director, Decarbonization Program, Cascale

    Joyce Tsoi is the Director of the Decarbonization Program at Cascale. She is based in Hong Kong. She manages all Cascale’s Collective Action programs and activities, support members and EcoSystem partners to prioritize actions, accelerate sustainable environmental and social impacts and transform our industry into one that gives more than it takes- to the people and the planet. Through building strong industry partnership and collaboration with our Ecosystem and strategic partners from all sectors across our value chain, our aspirational goals could be achieved together: 45% GHG emissions reduction in line with Science Based Targets by 2030 against a 2020 baseline to combat climate change; supports workers’ rights, safety and livelihoods by 2025.

    Before joining Cascale team, Joyce was the Senior Manager, Supply Chain Sustainability at VF Corporation where she spearheaded the key supply chain sustainability program. She’s actively involved in driving corporate and industry sustainability strategies and efforts through the adoption and verification of Higg Index FEM environmental impact measurement activities, Global Wastewater Compliance program, Science Based Targets (SBTs), energy efficiency and renewable energy program aiming to improve the environment, workers and communities and build climate resilience. In addition, she brings over 16 years of diverse global experience across multiple industry sectors including apparel and footwear, electronics, hardgoods, home goods, food and beverage, home goods and toys industries in Europe, US and Asia.

    Joyce graduated from University College London, U.K. with a B.Eng. (Hons) degree in Chemical Engineering. She holds a Master of Science (MSc) Degree in Environmental Engineering from Imperial College London, U.K. and a PhD. in Sustainability and Environmental Management from the University of Hong Kong.

    She is a passionate supporter of education, she believes a love of learning should be encouraged where students are inspired and empowered to make a difference. As a working mum with 3 kids, Joyce has served as a parent representative of Quarry Bay School, Hong Kong for the past 9 years. As an alumnus of the University of Hong Kong, she continues to practice teaching on “environmental management systems and audits” course and supply chain resource management course of the Sustainability Leadership and  Governance Program. She enjoys spending time with family and kids, cooking different types of local cuisines, hiking, and swimming on Big Wave beach.

  • Dr. Laxmikant Jawale, Regional Lead, South Asia & Southeast Asia, Apparel Impact Institute

    Laxmikant is the Regional Lead for South Asia at the Apparel Impact Institute (Aii). In this role, he is responsible for creating and implementing a decarbonization strategy for the apparel sector within the South Asia region. Laxmikant’s primary focus is aligning Aii’s Carbon Leadership Programs methodology to drive facility-level impact and cultivate best practices and market insights tailored to the region. He actively participates in managing and executing Aii’s recruitment efforts and ongoing partnership initiatives with apparel brands, manufacturers, and service providers throughout the South Asia region. Additionally, Laxmikant takes charge of program management for the Climate Solutions Portfolio within the same geographic area. He has wide experience of audits, consultancy and providing bespoke training in South Asia and Southeast Asia Region. Laxmikant holds a Ph.D. (Tech) in Fibres & Textile Processing Technology from the University of Mumbai, India.

    LinkedIn

10:10 am - 10:45 am

Coffee Break

10:45 am - 11:20 am

Understanding Manufacturer Responsibilities Amidst Legislative Shifts

Join us for an informative fireside chat designed to assist manufacturers in navigating the evolving landscape of EU regulations. Kickstarting the session, our public affairs team will provide insights into key legislative developments, outlining the obligations and actions manufacturers must anticipate upon their release. Following this, engage in a fireside chat with Cascale Board Director, who will offer valuable perspectives on what these regulatory changes entail for manufacturers and how they can proactively prepare. Concluding the session, stay tuned for updates on forthcoming resources aimed at adapting the Higg Index & Cascale Programs to aid in compliance efforts later in the year. This session aims to empower manufacturers with essential knowledge and actionable strategies to navigate regulatory changes effectively and ensure sustainable practices in their operations.

  • Black and white headshot of Elisabeth von Reitzenstein
    Elisabeth von Reitzenstein, Senior Director, Public Affairs, Cascale

    Elisabeth is the Senior Director, Public Affairs for Cascale. She is leading our global activities in public affairs, policy and advocacy, including heading and further developing the public affairs team. She is leading Cascale working engagement with the Policy Hub and other like-minded partner organizations. She is based in Brussels, Belgium.

    She has more than a decade of experience in decision-making procedures and public affairs and has acquired extensive expertise in sustainability legislation. She is specialised in strategically positioning members’ interests through targeted stakeholder alliances and constant dialogue with policy makers. Before joining Cascale, Elisabeth was head of the Brussels office of a public affairs consultancy and led the sustainability department at the EU association Independent Retail Europe.

    Elisabeth holds a Bachelor’s degree in European Studies from Maastricht University in the Netherlands and a Master’s in Management, Economics and International Relations, from which she graduated with distinction. In addition to her native German, she speaks English, French and Spanish. Elisabeth loves to travel and getting to know new people as well as cultures. Coming from a region close to the German alps, she also very much enjoys hiking, climbing, and skiing.

  • Dr. Vidhura Ralapanawe, Executive Vice President, Epic Group

    Mr. Vidhura Ralapanawe has over 16 years of experience in apparel sustainability and has a background in climate research, energy transition, and renewable energy. Currently, he is dedicated to shaping Epic Group’s sustainability strategy and leading implementation across manufacturing, products, and the supply chain. Previously, he worked for 12 years at MAS Intimates. He is a contributor to resource efficiency, LCAs, green buildings, and sustainable product innovation.

11:20 am - 11:50 am

Higg FEM: Understanding the Why Behind the Update

Join us in this engaging session as we discuss the motivations behind the evolution from Higg Facility Environmental Module (FEM) 3.0 to 4.0. Hear firsthand accounts from Higg FEM users, sharing their preparation strategies and how they overcame obstacles encountered during this transition. This plenary session aims to deepen the industry’s comprehension of the crucial reasons driving the Higg FEM 4.0 changes and their profound impact on facilities’ business models.

  • Black and white headshot of Angela Ng
    Angela Ng, Director, Higg Facility Tools, Cascale

    Angela is Cascale Higg Facility Tools Director. Previously, she worked at Cascale brand member Columbia, where she focused on sustainability in the social and labor program. Angela was also responsible for managing Columbia’s supply chain sustainability performance and initiatives. Implementing the Higg Facility Environmental Module was central to Angela’s efforts, from scaling adoption of the tool to integrating Higg FEM into Columbia’s business functions. Angela has been working with the Higg Index since its inception. She brings years of supply chain and industry experience. Angela lives by the mottos, “Make a difference” and “pay it forward.”

  • Headshot of Mustafain Munir
    Mustafain Munir, Director, CYCLO Recycled Fibers

    Experienced Director with a demonstrated history of working towards an environmentally and economically friendly textiles industry. Skilled in Strategic Planning, Business Development, and Marketing Strategy. Strong professional with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) focused in Music, Operations & Supply Chain Management from Washington University in St. Louis.

  • Headshot of Spandon Kumer Roy
    Spandon Kumer Roy, Environmental Sustainability Manager, Primark

    Environmental Sustainability Manager

    Primark (Bangladesh & Pakistan)

11:50 am - 12:20 pm

Introducing the Core Verification Approach

Our final morning session presents an in-depth exploration of the evolving landscape of sustainability verification within the industry. Tune in for a succinct exploration of targeted programs, reliable data, and adaptive verification methods, crucial for transformative industry change. Following the presentation we will open up the stage for a dynamic collaborative Q&A session.

  • Black and white headshot of Angela Ng
    Angela Ng, Director, Higg Facility Tools, Cascale

    Angela is Cascale Higg Facility Tools Director. Previously, she worked at Cascale brand member Columbia, where she focused on sustainability in the social and labor program. Angela was also responsible for managing Columbia’s supply chain sustainability performance and initiatives. Implementing the Higg Facility Environmental Module was central to Angela’s efforts, from scaling adoption of the tool to integrating Higg FEM into Columbia’s business functions. Angela has been working with the Higg Index since its inception. She brings years of supply chain and industry experience. Angela lives by the mottos, “Make a difference” and “pay it forward.”

12:20 pm - 12:25 pm

Morning Wrap Up

12:25 pm - 1:25 pm

Lunch & Networking

1:25 pm - 3:25 pm

Higg FEM 4.0 Workshop
4 hours total

Dive into the Higg Facility Environmental Module (FEM) 4.0 Workshop for a hands-on exploration. This workshop is thoughtfully designed to equip participants with practical skills and insights crucial for successful Higg FEM self-assessment and verification.

What to Expect:

  • Tool Overview: Explore the changes and new questions introduced in Higg FEM 4.0.
  • Data Insights: Gain valuable insights from previous FEM inputs to enhance your understanding.
  • Skill Development: Develop the skills necessary to seamlessly complete the Higg FEM 4.0 self-assessment and verification process, ensuring a smooth transition for your facility.

This workshop features presentations by our expert Higg Facility team, an interactive Q&A session, and an opportunity for members to share their experiences. Join us in this workshop to future-proof your facility and confidently embrace the transition to Higg FEM 4.0.

  • Black and white headshot of Deepak Kashyap
    Deepak Kashyap, Senior Manager, Higg Facility Tools, Cascale

    Deepak Kashyap is the Senior Manager, Higg Facility Tools at Cascale. His key responsibilities include: project management of the Higg FEM and FSLM, collaboration with a wide variety of stakeholders, and facilitation and coordination of Cascale members’ involvement. This role will also continue the development of adoption resources that support the global scaling of the Higg Facility Module, QA testing in cooperation with technical teams, and coordination of communications and case studies. He is based in New Delhi, India.

    Prior to joining Cascale team, Deepak was a senior member of the sustainability compliance team at IKEA, India, where he led the development and maintenance of Social & Environment requirements and more sustainable agenda at South Asia supply chain. He has been a key contributor to sustainability projects and Supplier Sustainability Index for textile supplier at South Asia level working together with business partners. Deepak was also responsible for tools related to risk mapping, planning, supplier review at South Asia level and a tool related to supply chain traceability and impact assessment at the global level in IKEA. He studied Environment Law and Policy at National Law University, Delhi.

    In his free time Deepak enjoys watching movies and exploring sustainability initiatives around the world.

    LinkedIn

  • Black and white headshot of Demith Gooneratne
    Demith Gooneratne, Senior Manager, Higg Facility Tools, Cascale

    Demith Gooneratne is the Senior Manager – Higg Facility Tools at Cascale. His Key Responsibilities include; Project Management of the Higg FEM and FSLM, in collaboration with a wide variety of stakeholders, and facilitation and coordination of Cascale members’ involvement. This role also continues the development of adoption resources that support the global scaling of the Higg Facility Module and QA testing in cooperation with technical teams and coordination of communications and case studies. He is based in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

    Prior to joining Cascale team, Demith was the Senior Manager – Environmental Sustainability at Hirdaramani International Exports (Pvt) Ltd; Sri Lanka , where he was largely responsible for the development of their Environmental Sustainability Department, and managing the environmental sustainability initiatives primarily in Sri Lanka for more than a decade and overlooking strategy level implementation in Bangladesh and Vietnam. He Holds a BSc Degree in Physical Science and a Master’s Degree in Environmental Science from the University of Colombo (Sri Lanka).

    In his free time Demith enjoys swimming, watching Sci-Fi Movies and reading articles on new technologies and research findings related to Environment, Renewable Energy and Space Science.

    LinkedIn

1:25 pm - 3:25 pm

Science-Based Target Training
4 hours total

Join us for a transformative learning experience with our Science-Based Target Training, a comprehensive 4-hour in-person workshop designed to empower participants with essential knowledge and skills for setting impactful, science-based targets.

Key Learning Objectives:

  • Significance of Science-Based Targets: Understand the vital role and advantages of establishing science-based targets in driving global decarbonization efforts.
  • Practical Application: Acquire hands-on experience by developing a greenhouse gas inventory and setting emission reduction targets using the SBTi’s target setting tool.
  • Strategic Positioning: Elevate your strategic positioning by aligning with the increasing demand for global decarbonization efforts.

This immersive training includes captivating presentations by seasoned sustainability professionals, interactive activities, and guided exercises for practical learning. Participants will also gain valuable insights into the recently launched Manufacturer Climate Action Program (MCAP). The session concludes with an online test, assessing participants’ ability to apply acquired knowledge and skills. A course certification will be awarded upon achieving a passing rate of at least 70%. Elevate your sustainability journey and contribute to a more sustainable future by mastering science-based targets.

  • Black and white headshot of Joyce Tsoi
    Dr. Joyce Tsoi, Director, Decarbonization Program, Cascale

    Joyce Tsoi is the Director of the Decarbonization Program at Cascale. She is based in Hong Kong. She manages all Cascale’s Collective Action programs and activities, support members and EcoSystem partners to prioritize actions, accelerate sustainable environmental and social impacts and transform our industry into one that gives more than it takes- to the people and the planet. Through building strong industry partnership and collaboration with our Ecosystem and strategic partners from all sectors across our value chain, our aspirational goals could be achieved together: 45% GHG emissions reduction in line with Science Based Targets by 2030 against a 2020 baseline to combat climate change; supports workers’ rights, safety and livelihoods by 2025.

    Before joining Cascale team, Joyce was the Senior Manager, Supply Chain Sustainability at VF Corporation where she spearheaded the key supply chain sustainability program. She’s actively involved in driving corporate and industry sustainability strategies and efforts through the adoption and verification of Higg Index FEM environmental impact measurement activities, Global Wastewater Compliance program, Science Based Targets (SBTs), energy efficiency and renewable energy program aiming to improve the environment, workers and communities and build climate resilience. In addition, she brings over 16 years of diverse global experience across multiple industry sectors including apparel and footwear, electronics, hardgoods, home goods, food and beverage, home goods and toys industries in Europe, US and Asia.

    Joyce graduated from University College London, U.K. with a B.Eng. (Hons) degree in Chemical Engineering. She holds a Master of Science (MSc) Degree in Environmental Engineering from Imperial College London, U.K. and a PhD. in Sustainability and Environmental Management from the University of Hong Kong.

    She is a passionate supporter of education, she believes a love of learning should be encouraged where students are inspired and empowered to make a difference. As a working mum with 3 kids, Joyce has served as a parent representative of Quarry Bay School, Hong Kong for the past 9 years. As an alumnus of the University of Hong Kong, she continues to practice teaching on “environmental management systems and audits” course and supply chain resource management course of the Sustainability Leadership and  Governance Program. She enjoys spending time with family and kids, cooking different types of local cuisines, hiking, and swimming on Big Wave beach.

  • Headshot of Sadia Raisa Khan
    Sadia Raisa Khan, Advisor & Country Representative, Project Development Programme (PDP), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

    A finance professional with several years of working experience in sustainable energy sector of Bangladesh. Extensive expertise in developing, appraising, due diligence, financial modelling and financing energy, renewable energy projects. Mastered robust experience in feasibility assessment along with project implementation and monitoring of multiple projects of solar irrigation, solar mini-grid, rooftop solar, utility scale grid-tied solar and other renewable energy projects. Actively working towards facilitating the development of energy mix and sustainable finance in the region.

    LinkedIn

  • Headshot of Zia Uddin Jewel
    Zia Uddin Jewel, Advisor & Country Representative, Project Development Programme (PDP), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

    Zia is currently working as an Advisor and Country Representative for the Project Development Programme (PDP), GIZ Bangladesh. As a member of the team he is working on the business, market & project development support for the C&I rooftop solar sector. Previously he worked as a technical team member at Infrastructure Development Company Ltd (IDCOL). He has a diversified experience of working with a number of different national solar programs, industrial rooftop solar projects, utility scale solar power plants and other Renewable Energy projects.

    LinkedIn

1:25 pm - 3:25 pm

Empowering Workers and Ensuring Equity Workshop
4 hours total

Join this workshop focused on empowering workers and ensuring equity in Bangladeshi manufacturing. During this 4-hour workshop we will dive into data insights specific to Bangladesh, engage in discussions on health and safety standards, and explore strategies to enhance scoring methodology adoption—all with a dedicated focus on social labor rights.

What to Expect:

  • Cascale & SLCP Collaboration: Bangladesh Performance Trends Through Data Insights: Gain insights from the Cascale and Social & Labor Convergence Program (SLCP) teams, setting the stage for an enriching session dedicated to worker empowerment through Higg Facility Social & Labor Module (FSLM) and Converged Assessment Framework (CAF). Delve deep into data insights tailored to the unique landscape of Bangladeshi manufacturers, offering valuable perspectives for informed decision-making that prioritizes social labor rights.
  • Ensuring Health and Safety: Remediation Planning: Join this panel with our expert industry speakers to dive into the prevailing health and safety standards within Bangladeshi manufacturing companies, emphasizing worker well-being and equity, through an insightful discussion.
  • Peer-to-Peer Learning: Amplifying Workers’ Voice in Manufacturing: Here participants will engage in peer-to-peer learning opportunities centered around amplifying the voices of workers in the manufacturing sector. Industry experts will share firsthand experiences and insights, offering valuable learnings and best practices aimed at fostering worker empowerment and participation. Through interactive discussions, attendees will gain deeper insights into the challenges and successes encountered in promoting workers’ voice within manufacturing environments. Additionally, the session will explore the role of service providers in addressing these challenges and enhancing FSLM user scores. By examining the offerings of service providers, participants will discover innovative solutions to empower workers and elevate workplace standards.
  • Interactive Q&A: Finally, we will finish the session with an interactive Q&A discussion aimed at supporting our attendees in developing a plan to apply the solutions that they’ve learned from today’s sessions into their business models and day-to-day operations. Here, they will be given the opportunity to ask questions to the distinguished speakers from the workshop.
  • Black and white headshot of Angela Ng
    Angela Ng, Director, Higg Facility Tools, Cascale

    Angela is Cascale Higg Facility Tools Director. Previously, she worked at Cascale brand member Columbia, where she focused on sustainability in the social and labor program. Angela was also responsible for managing Columbia’s supply chain sustainability performance and initiatives. Implementing the Higg Facility Environmental Module was central to Angela’s efforts, from scaling adoption of the tool to integrating Higg FEM into Columbia’s business functions. Angela has been working with the Higg Index since its inception. She brings years of supply chain and industry experience. Angela lives by the mottos, “Make a difference” and “pay it forward.”

  • Headshot of Arindama Banerjee
    Arindama Banerjee, Associate Director, Client Services, ELEVATE

    Arindama Wankhede is with ELEVATE as Associate Director- Client Services based in India. She works with clients to help them shift from reactive to proactive when managing and monitoring their supply chains. Previously, Arindama was the lead for Tesco’s Responsible Sourcing program in India and Sri Lanka. She shaped the strategy and developed the team to implement the strategy. She brings together a well-rounded experience of working with suppliers, brands, factories, NGOs and auditing bodies. Beyond monitoring programs, she has contributed to many social supply chain initiatives, including financial literacy, worker health and wellbeing and implementing grievance mechanisms. Her extensive experience gives her unique perspective to design pragmatic solutions for complex supply chain issues creating win-win for all stakeholders.

    Arindama holds an Engineering degree in Fire Technology and Industrial Safety. She was the first female Safety Officer at an Indian factory. She is actively involved in enhancing social entrepreneurship and social responsibility programs in India and frequently serves as a guest lecturer.

    LinkedIn

  • Ashwini Vij, CEO, Floreal Bangladesh

    CEO at Floreal Bangladesh, a subsidiary of CIEL Textile Mauritius. With over 28 years of experience in international markets within textile manufacturing and sourcing industry. Dedicated towards driving positive change within the industry, ensuring that our operations align with principles of social responsibility and environmental preservation.

    LinkedIn

  • Headshot of Farhtheeba Rahat Khan
    Farhtheeba Rahat Khan, Consultant - Worker Engagement Specialist, Ulula

    Ms. Farhtheeba Rahat Khan is a development professional with experience backed up by private sector interventions and development sector working realities and challenges. As the Lead of ‘RMG Inclusive Business Portfolio’ of SNV Netherlands Development Organization Ms. Khan commissioned inclusive business initiatives focusing garment worker health and wellbeing. With female workers usually the most vulnerable, all her projects had women-friendly, women-centric approach.

    Ms. Khan worked with brands in piloting health insurance initiatives so that female workers can easily access cashless healthcare at an affordable premium. She facilitated private hygiene companies to introduce customized solutions for female workers to manage their menstruation. With gender-based violence a critical issue but ‘mostly unreported’ by female workers, Ms. Khan worked with partner suppliers in establishing systems to address GBV at workplace. Currently Ms. Khan is working with Ulula, in supporting brands in creating a transparent and resilient supply chain, one where workers’ voices are heard, and remediation actions are effectively implemented.

    LinkedIn

  • Headshot of Amb. Hans Docter
    Amb. Hans Docter, Special Representative for Due Diligence Innovation, Fair Wear

    Hans Docter (1966) joined the Fair Wear Foundation in 2023 to help engage more intensively with supplier organisations and other stakeholders in Asia on supply chain innovation.

    After studying international law and working for the UN refugee organisation UNHCR, he joined the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He has worked as a senior Dutch diplomat and ambassador all over the globe with postings in Eastern Europe, Asia and Africa. He was also Director for Sustainable Economic Cooperation.

    A main theme in his career is sustainability and business; working together with governments, non governmental organisations, and the business community to solve global challenges together. From improving terms of trade for farmers in Africa or for better labour conditions in industries worldwide. He also did a lot to foster more investment in low income and emerging economies for better growth and decent jobs.

    LinkedIn

  • Headshot of Jayanth Kashyap
    Jayanth Kashyap B., Investment Lead, Good Fashion Fund

    Jayanth is an investment professional with over a decade’s experience in impact investing, impact advisory, venture capital and sustainability. He is presently the Investment Lead of the Good Fashion Fund, a first-of-its-kind initiative by Laudes Foundation, Fashion for Good and FOUNT. Previously, he was the Director (Impact Investing) at Aequalitas Capital Partners and worked in impact firms such as Ennovent, Social Finance and Grameen Impact. He completed his MBA from the University of Oxford and BBA from the University of Madras. He is also a Gender Lens Investing Fellow (Asia) of the 2X Global initiative.

    LinkedIn

  • Headshot of Khalid Hossain
    Khalid Hossain, Partnership Lead, Denim Experts Ltd.

     

     

  • Black and white headshot of Orine Dsouza
    Orine Dsouza, Senior Manager, Higg Facility Tools, Cascale

    Orine Dsouza is the Senior Manager of Higg tools for Cascale, the apparel, footwear, and textile industry’s leading alliance for sustainable production. She will be responsible for managing and improving the Higg Facility Environmental Module (Higg FEM), Higg Facility Social & Labor Module (Higg FSLM) and their suite of resources. The goal of this position is to continue integrating the input of Coalition members, facilities, and stakeholders into the tools and resources through effective engagement and facilitation, in order to scale the adoption of these tools globally. She is based in Bangalore/India.

    Before joining Cascale team, Orine was the Supply Chain Sustainability Manager for India and Sri Lanka at H&M. This includes setting the strategy, planning, controlling and analysis of impact for the supply chain. She has been a key contributor, providing guidance on strategy, policies, and planning for long-term sustainability. Orine was responsible for leading the team in implementing the Annual Action Plans (Validation, Program and Projects) in cooperation with the business team and suppliers. She also handled any escalation that came from the supplier level, and provided support in managing and mitigating issues.

    Orine has a Master’s degree in Social Work. In her free time, Orine loves to see new places and bake/ cook new cuisine.

  • Headshot of Raisul Islam Khan
    Raisul Islam Khan, Project Coordinator, IndustriAll Global Union

    Mohd. Raisul Islam Khan is working as a Project Coordinator for IndustriALL Global Union and based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. He supports the work of IndustriALL affiliates in the garment and textiles sector in researching the global RMG supply chain and in defining campaigning policies and strategies for the sector. He holds a Master’s degree in Global Political Economy from the University of Kassel, Germany and a Master’s Degree in International Relations and Affairs from Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka. In the past years he has worked in several positions for Global Union Federations as well as the German Embassy in Bangladesh. The Bangladesh Accord on Fire and Building Safety is one of the instruments that he has been engaged with both in terms of supporting its implementation and in terms of research work.

  • Headshot of Samir Saidi
    Samira Saidi, Investment Advisor, Good Fashion Fund

    Samira Saidi is an Investment Advisor for Good Fashion Fund. She is passionate about uplifting emerging economies through creating impact, promoting equality and access to capital. Through her background in Financial Economics and Development Finance, she has worked on several impact initiatives in public infrastructure (access to water, renewable energy, transport), sustainable fashion, access to justice and clean cooking in Sub-Saharan Africa and South East Asia. At the Good Fashion Fund, she is part of an innovative and dynamic team that finances sustainable technologies in textile manufacturers with an emphasis on reducing environmental waste whilst creating a positive social impact for worker lives and well-being.

    LinkedIn

  • Urtty Majumder, Support Lead, Bangladesh, Social & Labor Convergence Program

    Urtty is the SLCP representative in Bangladesh. She has eight years of experience in social compliance auditing and capacity building with International brands and third-party audit firms. At SLCP, Urtty is responsible for the Gateway approval of facilities. She provides Helpdesk support, contributes to facility training, develops training materials in Bangla, and engages with local stakeholders (brands, VBs, BW) to advance the adoption of SLCP in Bangladesh.

    LinkedIn

3:25 pm - 4:00 pm

Coffee Break

4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Higg FEM 4.0 Workshop continued

Science-Based Target Training continued

Empowering Workers and Ensuring Equity Workshop continued

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