The Asian Forum on Enterprise for Society, or AFES, 2023 has made a triumphant return to hosting in-person gatherings with the recent 26-27 September event at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City, Philippines.

The holding of the forum reaffirmed its status as the premier platform in Asia for discussions revolving around corporate responsibility, innovation, and sustainable business practices.

Organized by the Asian Institute of Management Ramon V. Del Rosario, Sr. Center for Corporate Responsibility, or AIM RVR Center, AFES, formerly recognized as the Asian Forum on Corporate Social Responsibility, boasts of a history of assembling in diverse Asian cities.

Pivotal role for future

Its unwavering commitment to the pivotal role that businesses play in shaping a sustainable future remains constant.

Under the 2023 theme, "Boosting Innovation and Inclusion Together," this edition carries forward the legacy by exploring how businesses can act as catalysts for resilience and inclusivity.

"This year, the Asian Forum will underscore the imperative of sustainable, ethical, and purpose-driven enterprise for societal betterment in an ever-evolving, increasingly complex world. Our world has been reshaped by unprecedented challenges, and it is through thoughtful conversations facilitated by visionary thought and business leaders that we can co-create a brighter, more resilient future," Ambassador Jose Cuisia Jr., chairman of the Board of Advisers of the AIM RVR Center, said.

AFES 2023 has successfully convened a diverse audience of over 400 participants including global practitioners, thought leaders, business executives, and community representatives, all united by a shared objective — to address the most pressing societal challenges.

AFES 2023 features a spectrum of action-inspiring conversations, each exploring diverse topics that are pivotal to our collective future.

From co-creating nature-based solutions for food security and exploring new pathways for eco-tourism to promoting greener, more resilient fintech, and the responsible use of generative AI, these discussions delve deep into the issues that will shape the world for generations to come.

Peter Brabeck-Letmathe, chairman emeritus of the Nestlé Group emphasized in his keynote speech: "Inclusive capitalism places people at the heart of economic progress, prioritizing their well-being over profit. It's the imperative to embed responsibility throughout the entire supply chain, ensuring that every link in the economic ecosystem contributes to a fair and equitable society."