To create more employment opportunities for those with disabilities, non-profit organisation ART:DIS set up a studio focusing on handmade goods and original art merchandise made by persons with disabilities. Among the products sold were tote bags, passport covers and reusable bags. Founded by Ambassador-at-Large Tommy Koh in 1993, ART:DIS provides a wide range of programmes to enable persons with disabilities to develop their artistic interests and grow their self-confidence.

“ART:DIS Studio came about because we noticed a gap in the ecosystem, where persons with disabilities in Singapore have access to only a narrow range of employment opportunities,” said Ms Angela Tan, executive director of ART:DIS. “These roles may not always align with individual interests or strengths, and often follow fixed full-time arrangements that can be less accessible for those who require more flexibility.”

Ms Tan added: “We hope that ART:DIS Studio helps to address this gap by offering flexible and interest-driven opportunities, enabling individuals to engage in work that is both fulfilling and aligned with their strengths.” The studio also functions as a creative agency, supporting over 80 artists with disabilities, equipping them with industry-relevant skills and connecting them to flexible and gig-based opportunities.

ART:DIS was among 25 companies that received the annual Steward Leadership 25 (SL25) award, which recognises viable solutions for the environment and society across Asia and the Pacific. SL25 is in its fourth year, with nearly 450 entries received, spanning 27 countries and 25 industries. Organised by the Stewardship Asia Centre, the list of honourees showcases projects that have significantly contributed to protecting and enhancing the environment or society across the Asia-Pacific.

Mr Rajeev Peshawaria, chief executive officer of Stewardship Asia Centre Singapore, said: “Steward leaders want to do well by doing good… While there is a lot of talk about environmental, social and governance (ESG), the problem is that most of it is regulatory compliance, box checking and staying out of trouble.” Instead of focusing on the governance aspect of ESG, he suggested that replacing it with steward leadership would benefit and create a better future for everyone involved. “Steward leadership is the genuine desire and persistence to create a collective better future for stakeholders, society, future generations and the environment,” he added.

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