HSBC supports International Conference for Special Needs Dubai 2007

The HSBC Group has an international policy of embracing diversity. In a world where homogeneity and standardisation dominate, the Group is building its business in the belief that different people from different cultures and different walks of life create value. Diversity is about understanding the different perspectives and points-of-view of both the employees and the customers.

"At HSBC, diversity is not just a policy--it is a key driver to our success. We honor diversity within our organisation by building an inclusive work environment and by embracing proactive diversity supplier policies. As the world's local bank, we recognise and appreciate the unique contributions that each employee, supplier, and customer brings to our business success," said Mrs. Kaltham Al Koheji, Head of Regional Communications, HSBC Bank Middle East Limited and the Chairperson of the HSBC in the Community Foundation.

HSBC had announced earlier a strategic partnership with Takamul, the Government of Dubai's Special Needs initiative to develop the Equal Opportunity Project which aims to enable and empower all persons with special needs, making them fully participatory members of society. As an equal opportunity employer the bank is offering employment opportunities in its workforce in the UAE and the Middle Eastern region for people with special needs.

Under the umbrella of the HSBC in the Community Middle East Foundation, a charitable and community initiative launched by the Bank in 1996, HSBC has been involved in several charitable and community initiatives as well as funding educational and environmental projects all over the country.

Over the years HSBC has supported a wide variety of projects that have given a helping hand to many organisations at the heart of the UAE community. The Dubai Rehabilitation Centre, Senses Special Needs Centre, Al Noor Centre, Dubai Autism Centre, and The Future Centre are just a few of the many centres who benefit from the HSBC's commitment to providing financial aid to the various charities.

"We are pleased to sponsor the International Conference for Special Needs Dubai 2007 and we look forward to the opportunity to meet other entities involved in supporting individuals with special needs, to exchange information, ideas, meet the experts, discuss the challenges and raise awareness about HSBC's role and involvement in hiring individuals with special needs," added Al Koheji.