- November Area Council Report
- Preparing for 2025 APCDA Hybrid Conference
- November Committee Council Report
- APCDA President’s Report: The Season of Change
- A Taste of the 2024 APCDA Hybrid Conference
- Valuable Insights from the 2024 APCDA Member/Friend Survey
- Empower the Future: Support APCDA’s Scholarship Funds
- Establishing the KazCDA Branch and Career Development Initiative in Kazakhstan
- August Area Council Report
- APCDA’s New Executive Director
- APCDA Members and Friends at 2024 NCDA Conference
- Esteemed Members of the Asia Pacific Career Development Association
- APCDA’s New President-Elect
- Steps to Make a Difference: Summary of Annual Meeting Discussion
- Exploring Intersectionality: A Pilot Project
- Nurturing a GloCal Ecosystem for Career Professionals
- IAEVG Membership – A Benefit of APCDA Membership
- APCDA Logos for Members
By Arun Mittal
During the November 2024 Area Council meeting, representatives from Australia, Azerbaijan, China (Hong Kong, Macau, South China, Taiwan, West China), India, Japan, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Singapore, and the United States discussed key trends in career development. These discussions emphasized important themes in employment, skill development, and workforce inclusivity, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities each country faces.
Economic Trends and Employment Shifts
The United States reports steady employment with an unemployment rate of 4.1%, with new job opportunities emerging in healthcare and government sectors. However, political and economic uncertainties tied to the 2024 U.S. Presidential election and inflation concerns are impacting hiring, particularly in sectors sensitive to supply chain issues. Similarly, Japan is experiencing a stable job market but faces political changes as the new prime minister’s policies may influence employment practices. Japan’s unemployment rate is notably low at 2.6%, with a high job offer rate for students at 95.9%, reflecting a strong transition from academia to the workforce.
In Pakistan, the labor market shows a delicate balance between economic growth and stability. The GDP growth rate has been revised downward to 2.09%, with youth and female unemployment disproportionately high. Labor force participation hovers around 57%, indicating a need for structural reforms to improve employment accessibility for these groups. In Singapore, substantial recovery in employment post-pandemic is evident, particularly in technology and healthcare sectors. With an employment rate close to pre-pandemic levels at approximately 67%, the government continues to support workforce development to sustain this growth. Australia’s economy is similarly stable, though recent data from September 2024 shows a slight rise in the unemployment rate to 4.1%. Despite growth in full-time and part-time employment, Australia faces niche shortages, such as veterinarians.
Skill Development and Digital Transformation
As technology reshapes job markets, many countries are intensifying skill-building initiatives. The U.S. has seen a surge in demand for skills in AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, as employers prioritize candidates who can harness AI for enhanced productivity. According to the World Economic Forum, 85 million jobs are expected to be automated by 2025, offset by the creation of 97 million new roles, underscoring the need for digital skills and adaptability.
Singapore is advancing AI integration across sectors such as healthcare and smart city management. AI is being used to analyze patient data and optimize urban planning for improved traffic flow and energy efficiency. The National Library of Singapore provides resources on generative AI, educating the public about its benefits, ethical considerations, and potential risks, such as misinformation. In Pakistan, the ongoing issue of skill mismatch, particularly in tech and services sectors, highlights the importance of targeted upskilling programs to enhance employability and economic competitiveness.
Australia has introduced vocational training programs and digital skill-building initiatives to address labor market needs. Recent government reports emphasize the importance of these programs for youth and part-time workers, aiming to reduce underemployment and promote full labor market participation.
Promoting Inclusion and Diversity in the Workforce
Diversity and inclusion are central themes in workforce policies across various regions. In Singapore, multinational corporations (MNCs) are adopting inclusive hiring practices and offering resources to promote diversity. Training programs help HR teams foster an inclusive culture, covering areas such as unconscious bias and mentorship programs for underrepresented groups.
Australia supports inclusive policies, emphasizing flexible work arrangements and gender equity. Although the gender pay gap has reached a record low, ongoing efforts are needed to support women in advancing their careers and accessing leadership roles. Programs promoting employment for older workers and neurodivergent individuals further aim to create a more inclusive workforce. In Macau, recent vocational skills competitions, held in partnership with neighboring cities Zhuhai and Hengqin, promote regional workforce inclusivity and skill standardization through shared certification programs.
Supporting Youth Employment and Gender Equality
Japan’s job market benefits from a strong academic pipeline, with a high job offer rate of 95.9% for university students. Kazakhstan is implementing youth employment programs focused on vocational training and career readiness, addressing high youth unemployment. In Pakistan, barriers to youth and female employment persist, underscoring the need for reforms and targeted programs to enhance job accessibility.
The November 2024 discussions underscore a global commitment to addressing economic and employment challenges through strategic investments in skills, technology, inclusivity, and targeted programs for youth and women. Countries worldwide are recognizing the value of digital transformation and inclusive practices as essential pathways to building a resilient and adaptable workforce in a rapidly evolving job market.
The 2025 APCDA Hybrid Conference will be held on May 12 – 26. The first half is totally virtual – so you can attend from your own home anywhere in the world. The second half will be both In-person in Zhengzhou, China and broadcast to you if you are virtual.
Did you know that the deadline for presenting at this conference is the end of this month (Nov 30)? You can present from your own home/workplace. We provide a $50 discount for those selected to present. Do you have a new idea or technique or information to share? Please consider sending a proposal NOW!
If you are planning to attend virtually, visit our Conference Tips page to better understand how that works: https://asiapacificcda.org/conference-tips/
Are you interested in attending in-person? Tour descriptions are now available on the 2025 APCDA Conference weboage: https://asiapacificcda.org/2025-conference/ Visa and Hotel information is available on the Travel Tips page: https://asiapacificcda.org/travel-tips/
Registration will open in January, after we publish the list of presentations and speakers. We want you to know what you are registering for, so we don’t open registration until we have the presentations and keynote speakers lined up. But you can start planning your travel now.
By Natalie Kauffman
To request this option, please email-provide the committee leadership, Membership@AsiaPacificCDA.org, with a least with three (3) possible dates and times, each at least 2 weeks from the date of your email request, that best work for you to Zoom-meet for a 1-on-1, 60-90 minute session. The times you email-provide should be in your country’s time zone. For example, if you email reply today, the soonest our Membership Committee could accommodate an individual Zoom meeting would be two weeks from that date.
Finally, the Membership Committee warmly welcomes two (2) new members to their team, Sam Young from New Zealand & Muhammad Basit Rana (also a PR Committee member) from Pakistan.
Our News Committee, Co-Chaired by Ms. Momoko Asaka, welcomes back Catherine Hughes, as her new Co-Chair. Both eagerly await more members joining as they collaborate to create a plan for contacting potential article contributors and plan to construct a series of topics for 2025 newsletter articles based upon the APCDA Annual Survey results.
APCDA’s Awards and Scholarships Committee is gearing up for their 2025 nominations by beginning their marketing efforts. Awards Co-Chair & former APCDA President, Prof. Dr. Narender K Chadha, is working to not only increase nominations this year, but also to maintain the superior quality of submitted Award nominations. Scholarships Co-Chair and APCDA Website and Video Editor, Tuan Anh Le will be teaming with nine (9) new committee members to maximize scholarship applications for 2025. A warm welcome to 祁翼帆 from China, Dr. Lucila O. Bance from the Philippines, Ms. Alicia Chng (also a Membership Committee member) from Malaysia, Dr. Prashun Kumar Choudhury from Malaysia, Nguyen Thuy Duong from Vietnam, Mr. Neeraj Kumar from India, Ms. Fagamalama Tafaifa from Samoa, Dr. Ma. Leonila V. Urrea (also APCDA Board Secretary), and Gaini Yessembekova, (also PR Committee Co-Chair)! Tuan Anh and his new team wants you, every other member, both Councils and all our elected officers to provide at least one 2025 scholarship candidate!
Although our Nominations Committee Chair, Dr. Serene Lin-Stephens (also APCDA immediate Past President), does not begin her role until 2025. It is not too early to be thinking about APCDA Officer Elections for next year. Each year we seek President Elect nominees. This year we also are looking for Secretary nominees.
In conclusion, our APCDA Research Committee Co-Chairs, Dr. Poh Li Lau (and APCD Journal Editor) and Dr. Hsiu-Lan (Shelley) Tien (and former APCDA President) are delighted to warmly welcome the following new members, Ms. Hiroko (Iris) Shiraishi, Mr. Sachin Kumar, Mr. Zedric Lorzano, Ms. Sue Mate, Dr. Claire Baixiao Ouyang, Ms. Lea Šimek, and Ms. Zisa Valasquez-Garcia (also a Membership Committee member). They would also like to warmly welcome new Associate Editor for the APCD Journal, Dr. Amberyce Ang (immediate past Editorial Board member).
Finally, just like our Awards & Scholarship Committee Co-Chairs, our APCDA Research Committee Co-Chairs are seeking support from you and every other member, both councils and all elected officials to solicit research submissions for the March & September 2025 APCD Journal issues.
Hopefully our November Committee Council Report has successfully shown you the many activities and opportunities available to you as an APCDA member and that membership in our association is more than a once a year exciting and empowering, hybrid Conference. Kindly keep in mind that it is possible to join any of our committees at any time throughout the year. Please visit APCDA’s online Contact Us page:
Once on the page, scroll down to the Committee Council section, find your committee of interest, and email the Chair/Co-Chairs of interest today without delay!
Also consider visiting the APCDA Committee descriptions page and getting to know Committee Chairs and Co-Chairs through the APCDA Leadership page:
For each of us, we are experiencing either autumn or spring. These seasons represent change. Autumn is a time for harvest, while spring is a time for preparation and planting. Together, these seasons guide us and help us focus on what matters most.
For the most part, APCDA has had a fantastic harvest in 2024. Our leaders have supported us immensely. Dr. Maze, along with her well-supported team, has worked diligently to rebuild depleted reserves, extend networks, and enhance member support. Dr. Serene Lin-Stephens has tirelessly pursued excellence and raised the profile of APCDA. Under her leadership, many initiatives were started and others nurtured. Each of us has greatly benefited from our active Committee Council and Regional Council. Professional exchanges have reached new heights. I am deeply grateful to assume the presidential chair during such a time of optimism.
I have just returned from a working tour in China, where there is great excitement about the 2025 conference at Zhengzhou University. Career development professionals, technology specialists, HR professionals, and those in Learning & Development and organizational development all showed interest in our conference as we focus on AI, Leadership, and Career Development. I encourage all members to consider attending in person to experience the rich professional passion, benefits of cross-sector networking, and cultural enrichment from the tours associated with the APCDA conference. By embracing such diversity, we are all strengthened, enriched, and unified by our shared passion for career development.
The time is right for our association to grow. The rapidly changing world increases the demand for career and talent development. Career education, especially in the context of Social & Emotional Learning (SEL), is critical if young people are to face the future with hope and energy. Professional support at each stage of life, with services designed around the client, is also becoming increasingly important. APCDA is leading the way with its diverse, client-centered programs.
While much attention is focused on our annual conference, there are many other ways APCDA members can contribute to their own growth and the growth of our profession. I encourage all members to engage actively through the members’ portal, attend webinars, and contribute to the newsletter. By sharing your insights and experiences, we all grow. Embrace a committee, reach out to colleagues, and contribute to the Practitioners in Conflict Zones initiative. We have much to learn from these extraordinary professionals.
At the 2024 conference, there was a call for APCDA to become what Margaret Wheatley describes as an “Island of Sanity” amidst the turbulence that surrounds us. Let’s walk together, stronger and enriched by our connections, as we move forward into the next year.
- 2401 Reinventing Career Development for the 21st Century by Brian Hutchison
- 2402 Supporting Young People to Find Success within a Constantly Changing Industrial Landscape by Matt Tompkins
- 2403 Shaping Futures: A Roadmap for Transformative and Inclusive Career Guidance in India by Sachin Kumar, Julian Dhar, Vimala Arunachalam, Reyes PM
- 2404 Realizing Happenstance Learning Theory in Career Coaching Practice: Seeing the Invisible by Jefrey Thing, Gin Yong Ong, Weili Zhang, Kwok Boon Yong
- 2405 Career as a Transitional Object and The Career Construction Theory Convergence by Sini Parampota, Kevin Glavin
- 2406 Curating a Career Portfolio Rather Than Forging a Career Path: Adapting to Change by Julie Rosengren
- 2407 Strength-Based Development versus Weakness Fixing in Career Development by Huong Man
- 2408 Career and Corporate Prospects for the Coming of Society 5.0 by Momoko Asaka
- 2409 Navigating Career Transformation through Systems Psychodynamics by Samuel Wee
- 2410 Towards a Skills-Focused Labor Market: Using Technology to Drive a Paradigm Shift by Brian Hutchison, Nour Alhiyari, Ariyana Radic
We hope you enjoy these newly released Recorded Presentations.
Visit our Store to watch them.
We are delighted that 30% of our APCDA members completed this year’s survey and 5% of our non-member contacts (who we call Friends). This robust response from 32 different countries gives us confidence in the results. Over 75% of the member respondents came from these areas (in descending order): ASEAN Countries, United States, Australia, and India. This corresponds well to the distribution of members in English-speaking countries, and gives us confidence that these results accurately represent the preferences of our members and friends. However, we must keep in mind that those less fluent in English are underrepresented and may have additional needs.
The setting is very useful in understanding the needs and interests of career practitioners. We asked respondents to indicate all settings in which they work (or plan to work).
While we hope to serve all settings, this information allows us to keep in mind the different needs in these settings.
Each paragraph below summarizes responses to one of the questions. All responses are listed in order with the most popular response listed first. Only responses selected by multiple respondents are included in this brief summary. If you want more details, read the Comprehensive Report.
When asked what they valued most about being career practitioners, they selected
- Work Tasks: Help clients understand their strengths, values, and interests
- Contribution to society: Make the world happier by helping clients find work they enjoy
- Learning: Continuously learn about new ideas and trends
- Empowerment: Help clients overcome obstacles and build resilience
When using their own words to describe what they like about their work, respondents often described specific work tasks. This tells us that career practitioners literally enjoy what they do! In addition to the above categories, they mentioned
- Research
- Developing tools for career development
- Community engagement
- Helping other career practitioners
- Enabling underprivileged clients
- Innovation
- Work life balance
- Improving the mental health of others
The aspects of APCDA Membership which our members value most are:
- Professional development (conference, webinars)
- Multi-cultural interactions
- Collaboration and peer support
- News about career development in this region
- Encouraging practitioner research
- Cost-effective membership fees
When asked what else they wanted from APCDA, many responded that APCDA is doing well at serving their needs. A wide variety of improvements were suggested, including:
- More engagement/discussion activities
- Increasing awareness of APCDA
- A mentoring program
- Encouraging practitioner research
- Lower membership fees
- A member manual & new member mentoring
The Board will take a close look at implementing these and the many other creative suggestions.
Regarding webinars, the most popular topics are related to Career theories or practices and Labor market trends or technology. Additional specific topics requested include:
- Using AI & technology in career development
- The impact of AI and automation on the workplace
- New skills needed
- Mental health and career development in the workplace
- How to run a private practice
- Career development and disability/neurodiversity
- Emerging labor market trends
- Training sessions for career development professionals
- How career development can impact management decisions
- Special interest groups
In addition, the Program Committee is grateful for the list of specific people recommended as speakers.
The most important factors in deciding which webinars to attend are:
- Topic
- Speaker(s)
- Time of day
We are well aware of the issues in scheduling webinars for a region with so many time zones. We know that many people watch the recorded webinars because they can’t make time in their day to watch when the webinar is offered. This is a major concern, but not one we are likely to resolve. We promise to record all webinars to make it easier to get the benefit from the presentation when you cannot be present at the webinar. Price is not a major concern for our respondents, although our respondents primarily represent English speakers and that may skew the response. We have not yet found a good solution for speakers of other languages who need translation services.
While the 2025 conference will be in Zhengzhou, China, we hope to hold the 2026 conference in Australia. Our respondents rated Melbourne and Sydney highest, and it looks like Sydney will work best for our friends in Australia who are about to hold their 2025 conference in Melbourne this October. Other considerations mentioned by respondents included cost of travel, convenience, ease of getting a visa, and safety. We will keep these concerns in mind when searching for conference locations.
Members generously volunteered to serve on our committees. We always need more help on our committees and are delighted to welcome new members.
Thank you to all of you who responded to this survey. We need your continuous feedback and guidance to keep our services relevant. If your responses are not reflected in this brief summary, please know that we did record every response and the leaders will strive to address as many as possible.
By Arun Mittal
We believe that access to professional development can transform lives, inspire communities, and shape the future. As a non-profit charitable organization, we are dedicated to supporting career professionals, students, and emerging leaders in the Asia Pacific region. Your generous donations enable us to provide vital scholarships, empowering the next generation of career professionals to make a difference in their communities and beyond.
Why Your Support Matters
In a world characterized by Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA), career professionals play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate complex career paths and find purpose in their work. However, many talented individuals, particularly those from non-high-income countries and conflict zones, face significant barriers to accessing the professional development they need to thrive. That’s where APCDA steps in, but we can’t do it alone—we need your support.
Scholarships that Change Lives
APCDA has established several scholarship funds to support students, emerging professionals, and career practitioners working under challenging conditions. These include scholarships specifically designed for students from non-high-income countries, emerging leaders who are recent graduates, and professionals from conflict zones who need access to global perspectives and professional development opportunities. Donations to these funds ensure that recipients can attend our conferences, participate in workshops, and connect with a global network of peers, providing them with the skills and insights they need to excel. Contributions can vary from small amounts to larger endowments, making a meaningful impact on the recipients’ lives and careers.
Additionally, for donors interested in creating a personal legacy, there is an opportunity to establish a new scholarship in honor of a loved one. These new scholarships can be tailored to a specific audience, ensuring your donation reflects your personal values and commitment to fostering the next generation of career professionals. Establishing a new scholarship involves creating an endowment where only the interest is used for scholarships, ensuring sustainability and long-term impact.
Your Role in Shaping the Future
Supporting APCDA’s scholarship funds is more than just a donation—it’s an investment in the future of our field. Your generosity helps talented individuals gain access to critical professional development, empowering them to return to their communities with new skills, knowledge, and connections. Whether you choose to contribute to an existing scholarship or establish a new one, your support will create a positive change across the Asia Pacific region.
Make a Difference Today
If these opportunities resonate with you, we invite you to contribute to one of our scholarship funds. Let us know how you would like your donation to be used, and we will work with you to ensure it has the maximum impact. Together, we can empower career professionals to achieve their full potential and continue making a difference in the lives of others.
Donate Now and Be Part of the Change
To make a donation or learn more about our scholarship opportunities, please visit [APCDA’s donation page] or contact us directly. Your support is crucial, and together, we can help create a brighter future for career professionals around the world.
To Donate Click Here
By Gaini Yessembekova and Liliya Tleukenova
KazCDA: A New Chapter in Career Development
The creation of KazCDA, spearheaded by Gaini Yessembekova and Liliya Tleukenova from Nazarbayev University’s CAC, represents a transformative shift in career services across Kazakhstan’s educational institutions. KazCDA’s mission is to enhance students’ professional growth and offer advanced training for career counselors. By strengthening partnerships among universities, the association seeks to elevate career education both in Kazakhstan and throughout Central Asia. KazCDA’s strategic priorities include:- Workshops and Seminars: Organizing training events led by APCDA experts to introduce advanced counseling techniques and improve professional skills.
- Strengthening Partnerships: Collaborating with universities to develop integrated and effective career programs.
- Digital Repository: Creating a comprehensive database with educational materials and resources from APCDA to support career professionals.
- Information Campaigns: Raising awareness about career development opportunities and expanding engagement across Kazakhstan.
- Educational Programs: Implementing standardized career counseling programs tailored to local contexts.
- Expanding Reach: Extending KazCDA’s services and influence throughout Central Asia.
First KazCDA Meeting: A Promising Start
On June 18, 2024, the first official KazCDA meeting was held, attracting 16 representatives from 13 universities across 8 cities in Kazakhstan. The meeting demonstrated widespread interest in advancing career counseling in the country. Participants discussed the benefits of association membership, including access to APCDA resources, and outlined strategic priorities for the future. A key focus was on preparations for the APCDA 2025 conference and the development of long-term strategies to expand the network of career centers in Kazakhstan. Participants shared their expectations and identified priority areas, such as enhancing international cooperation and expanding professional development opportunities. KazCDA marks a new era in career counseling in Kazakhstan, providing universities with essential support to guide students toward successful careers in an increasingly globalized job market.KazCDA Fall Webinars: Expanding Professional Horizons
In Fall 2024, KazCDA will launch a series of webinars designed specifically for career counselors and professional development specialists. These sessions will offer local career specialists a unique opportunity to enhance their knowledge, stay updated on the latest global trends, and foster interaction and networking within the professional community. Our goal is to equip career professionals across Kazakhstan with the tools and insights needed to guide students and professionals through the rapidly evolving job market. Through these webinars, we aim to create a stronger, more connected network of career development experts who can collectively elevate career services across the country. Renowned speakers will include:
- Allan Gatenby (September 16): Entrepreneurial Mindset in Career Development: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
- Anh Tuan Le (October 10): Social Media for Career Development: Modern Approaches from Blogs to Podcasts
- Marie Zimenoff (November 13): Innovations in Career Counseling and Resume Writing
About the Speakers:
- Allan Gatenby is a globally recognized career and leadership coach with extensive experience across Australia, Asia, and the UAE. Set to become the next President of APCDA, Allan is known for his transformative impact on individuals and organizations, and his dynamic approach has made him a sought-after speaker in career development.
- Tuan Anh Le is a leading career practitioner from Vietnam, specializing in employability skills workshops for students. A career consultant at RMIT University, Tuan Anh also runs a popular career blog with 5 million views and was named an Outstanding Career Practitioner by APCDA in 2024.
- Marie Zimenoff is an entrepreneur and speaker with a unique career trajectory. She founded Career Thought Leaders and the Resume Writing Academy after leaving Colorado State University during the Great Recession. Marie is known for her work in career management and her efforts to advance the career services industry.
These webinars will provide critical platforms for disseminating innovative practices and knowledge, further advancing career counseling in Kazakhstan.
KazCDA: Shaping the Future of Career Education in Kazakhstan
KazCDA is poised to become a cornerstone in building a robust and dynamic career development ecosystem in Kazakhstan. Through knowledge exchange, adherence to international standards, and close collaboration with APCDA, KazCDA aims to elevate the quality of career services in the region. The association will not only raise the professional standards for career specialists but also better prepare students and graduates to thrive in the global labor market.
Looking ahead, KazCDA envisions a transformative impact on career education across Kazakhstan. By integrating advanced career counseling methodologies and leveraging digital tools, KazCDA will ensure that career services are accessible, effective, and aligned with the evolving demands of the global economy. The association plans to expand its reach by partnering with more universities, industry leaders, and government agencies, creating a comprehensive support network for career development.
KazCDA is committed to continuous professional development for career counselors through specialized training programs, certifications, and workshops. This commitment will ensure that career specialists are well-equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to guide students effectively. Additionally, KazCDA will spearhead research initiatives to analyze labor market trends, providing valuable insights that inform career strategies and educational programs.
Gaini Yessembekova,
- Director of NU Career and Advising Center,
- Co-leader of KazCDA
- Co-Chair of PR Committee of Asia Pacific Career Development Association/APCDA
- Co-Chair of APCDA Area representative Committee
Liliya Tleukenova,
- General Manager of the NU Career and Advising Center
- Co-leader of KazCDA
- Member of APCDA Program Committee
By Yoshinobu Oi
The August 2024 report provides insights at employment trends, government policies, economic developments, and challenges in career education across Asia-Pacific and other key regions. This summary organizes the core content by key topics rather than geographical divisions.
- Employment Trends and Labor Market Overview
The employment landscape varies significantly across regions:
- USA: Payroll employment saw an increase of 206,000 in June 2024, with notable gains in government, healthcare, social assistance, and construction sectors.
- South Korea: As of June 2024, the employment rate for individuals aged 15-64 stands at 63.5%, with a youth employment rate of 46.6%. Unemployment remains low at 2.9%, though youth unemployment is higher at 6.2%.
- Kazakhstan: Employment rates improved in Q1 2024, reaching 67.3%, with unemployment decreasing to 4.9% and youth unemployment at 7.5%.
- Japan: The unemployment rate remains stable at 2.5%, with an impressive 88% job offer rate for university graduates in March 2025.
- Australia: The unemployment rate edged up to 4.0% in June 2024, with youth unemployment at 9.6%. Workforce participation has grown to 66.8%.
- India: GDP growth is around 6.5%, driven by strong services and domestic demand. However, the job market continues to face high unemployment and underemployment, especially among the youth.
- Pakistan: GDP growth is showing a slight recovery, but high youth and female unemployment remain critical challenges.
- Malaysia: Despite global uncertainties, the labor market remains resilient. However, high youth unemployment and skill mismatches are significant concerns.
Sector-specific employment:
- Kazakhstan: The services sector dominates with 64.7% of the workforce, followed by industry (21.8%) and agriculture (13.5%).
- South China (Greater Bay Area): Employment growth is strong in government, healthcare, social assistance, and clean energy sectors.
- USA: There is a strong demand for skills in AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Candidates with proficiency in AI are increasingly preferred.
- Government Policies and Social Issues Impacting Employment
Governments are implementing strategies focused on youth employment and skill development:
- South Korea: A master plan was introduced to support youth independence, expanding career guidance and vocational training programs.
- Kazakhstan: Targeted government programs have contributed to the reduction in youth unemployment.
- Pakistan: Initiatives for career counseling, vocational education, and entrepreneurship are helping address skill gaps.
- India: Skill development missions continue to focus on emerging technology sectors, though progress remains uneven.
- Economic and Technological Developments
Economic growth, digital transformation, and skill development are prominent across the region:
- China: Despite global challenges, China’s GDP growth is projected at 5% in 2024, with AI, digital finance, and green technology as key sectors. The Greater Bay Area’s integration is crucial for driving national goals.
- Japan: While GDP declined by 0.7% in Q1 2024, companies remain optimistic about hiring in technology sectors.
- Kazakhstan: Remote work now accounts for 23% of the workforce, especially in IT, education, and professional services. In-demand skills include digital literacy and project management.
- Australia: Remote work trends continue, with growing interest in addressing workforce skill gaps. The demand for digital and project management skills is increasing.
- Challenges and Innovations in Career Education
Countries are prioritizing career education and skill development to address labor market challenges:
- South China: Career education emphasizes global competencies and vocational training, particularly in addressing youth unemployment.
- Japan: Only 42.6% of foreign graduates secure employment post their graduation, leading to intensified efforts in career counseling and specialized training.
- India: Despite being a hub for emerging technology, the country faces a significant skills gap, with high demand for AI, data analytics, and related expertise.
- Pakistan: The growing emphasis on online learning and vocational education is helping improve workforce readiness.
- Malaysia: High underemployment rates and the need for digital skills remain major challenges, alongside gender equality and the inclusion of older workers.
- USA: There are reported talent shortages in technology, healthcare, and engineering sectors.
- China: AI sector is advancing rapidly, with innovations from companies like Alibaba and emerging startups. The region’s emphasis on open-source models is helping narrow the gap between China and global leaders in AI technology.
Conclusion
The Area Council’s August 2024 report highlights a complex landscape of employment trends, economic growth, and career education across Asia-Pacific. The focus remains on addressing youth unemployment, skill mismatches, and the growing need for specialized training and lifelong learning. As governments and organizations prioritize these areas, they pave the way for more resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking labor markets in the region.
By Dr. Marilyn Maze.
I am very excited to announce that I will be handing many of my responsibilities to Arun Mittal on August 1 when he assumes the position of Executive Director. Arun has been an integral part
of APCDA since 2017, contributing to the Public Relations Committee, Program Committee, North India representative, and serving as the chair of the country council before transitioning to a staff
role in October 2022. He has been working with me since then to learn the nuances of APCDA’s operations and become acquainted with our members and leadership. I will continue with APCDA in the role of Financial Administrator, handling the accounting and financial activities and complying with regulations for non-profits incorporated in the United States.
With a quarter of a centur
y experience in management and entrepreneurial start-ups in the education and career development field; Arun, brings a knowledge of business operations that
is invaluable to the future of APCDA combined with a wide overview of services offered in our field. This perspective is very different than most other applicants for this position. As our CEO, these are valuable skills. Our excellent team of leaders will continue to provide the depth of background in career counseling necessary to assure that APCDA continues to offer excellent services to our members.
Living in NOIDA, a city located on the outskirts of Delhi, he is centrally located. He and his family enjoy a comfortable life and this modern, upscale suburb with all of the amenities that a big city offers. As his daughter, who just completed high school, prepares for her next steps in life, he is also experiencing our field from a parent’s perspective.
You may not notice many changes immediately as we work on separating the tasks in a new way, but the staff names associated with each service we offer will change. In addition to my role in managing the financial side, I also hope to continue to use my research skills in analyzing data related to our services (such as the conference data and our Member/Friend Survey data).
Arun has taken the lead on organizing the Local Organization Educational Program (LOEP) Accreditation program into a structure that is reproduceable and financially feasible. This effort has been stalled for years due to my lack of energy. He will also be responsible for the 2025 Conference in China.
In the recent past, APCDA has had four part time staff who held regular jobs on the side. As the fifth staff person, I considered myself full-time, although I list myself as Retired on government forms because I am a volunteer. I can’t keep up this pace, and my flagging energy has slowed down the development of APCDA. We are delighted that donors Dr. David Reile and Dr. Barbara Suddarth have stepped forward to make a full-time paid Executive Director possible for APCDA. Through their financial support for 3 years, we will be able to fund this transition from partially volunteer to fully paid staff. We know that our staff give us their hearts and provide much more value that the amount we pay them, but this transition to having paid staff feels like a good and more sustainable situation.
The 2024 NCDA Conference was a great place to catch up with friends who could not make it to the 2024 APCDA Conference. We held an APCDA meeting before the main events to discuss how to navigate the NCDA Conference. We were delighted that so many members and friends attended our meeting. Members in this photo included Emily Lizada, Dr. Elisabeth Montgomery, Sini Parampota, Dr. Marilyn Maze, Barbara Suddarth and David Reile, Natalie Kauffman, Soonhoon Ahn, Karol Taylor, and Dr. Sujata Ives.
The International Reception, which was held outside and sponsored by our good friends Dr. David Reile and Dr. Barbara Suddarth. NCDA’ President, Dr. Carolyn Jones, used that event to award NCDA’s International Career Practitioner Award to Sini Parampota, APCDA Secretary.
Then they handed the microphone to Dr. Marilyn Maze and Emily Lizada to announce that Dr. Kevin Glavin had won APCDA’s Outstanding Career Educator Award. 
Dr. Tien was stuck in traffic during the reception, but we caught up with her the next day and handed APCDA’s Lifetime Achievement Award to her after she completed her NCDA Conference presentation.
The International reception gave us time to reconnect with old friends (like Midori Nonogaki and Dr. Spencer Niles).
Natalie Kauffman planned several social events during the conference, which gave us more time to get to know our members and friends. Her plans culminated with High Tea, which was delicious and a lot of fun.
By Elisabeth P. Montgomery, Ph.D.
As I stand before you, poised to embrace the role of
President-Elect of our diverse and dynamic association, my heart is filled with profound gratitude. It is a great honor to join forces with respected leaders such as Serene Lin-Stephens and Allen Gattenby and to step into a lineage of visionaries like Marilyn Maze, Soonhoon Ahn, and Brian Hutchinson, who have paved the way for our collective journey.
The fabric of our association is woven from 47 distinct countries, each with its unique threads of time zones, languages, and cultural tapestries. Immanuel Wallerstein’s World Systems Theory aptly reminds us “The world system does not operate on a level playing field… the system is based on a hierarchy that privileges some countries to the disadvantage of others”. In this spirit, I am deeply committed to acknowledging our diverse strengths, challenges, and perspectives to create an equitable platform for all. Our mission transcends these barriers, uniting us to pursue excellence in career development.
My 25 years of experience in South China's evolving educational sector will inform my leadership as we navigate the complexities of our burgeoning field. I aim to blend the rich tapestry of Asian Pacific cultures with the innovative practices that have marked my tenure in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province. The upcoming conference in May 2025 at Zhengzhou University in China is a pivotal moment for our association. It is a unique opportunity to engage with career development within ancient and interdependent cultures, share best practices in AI, and forge connections with Chinese career professionals at the forefront of our field. With its unique blend of tradition and innovation, this conference will be a significant step in our journey toward excellence in career development.
As your President-Elect, I am not just planning for the future but dedicated to the enduring legacy that acknowledges our unique differences while forging a path to common goals. Let us celebrate and combine our knowledge and use it as a catalyst for career innovation and growth. Thank you for your trust, support, and unwavering commitment to our shared mission. Our mission, to excel in career guidance and development, unites us and drives us forward.
Together, we will build bridges across oceans, languages, and cultures, proving that our greatest strength is human unity.
We are grateful to the members who voted in this election, and delighted to announce that the next President-Elect will be Dr. Elisabeth Montgomery. She has served as the South China Representative to APCDA since 2019, providing valuable insights into the labor trends in that country. Since 2021, Dr.
Montgomery has also been Co-Chairing the APCDA Program Committee, which plans our webinars. Many of our APCDA members have developed close relationships with her during this time and APCDA has greatly benefited from her leadership.
Dr. Montgomery earned her Ph.D. in Human Organizational Systems which combines both business and counseling. She has pioneered global success initiatives across the United States, Central and South America, China, and the Pacific Rim. She served the Shenzhen Nanshan Education Bureau as the First Foreign Senior Advisor for Internationalization, leading curricula reforms for managers, university students, and K-12 students. She developed the First Foreign Vice Principal position at South China University of Science and Technology Experimental public schools, driving
impactful community career education initiatives with schools, parents, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs. In partnership with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and experts in Circular Economy and the Stockholm Resilience Centre on Planetary Boundaries, she Integrated world systems climate change insights into career education programs, focusing on economic development programs and workforce security in the Asia Pacific regions.
With her background in both China and the US, she has been an invaluable guide to us in understanding trends in these two countries and brings this knowledge plus her multi-cultural skills to APCDA with the goal of focusing on member engagement and increasing participation by members. She has the vision and wisdom to help us enhance our reputation in this broad
region and elevate APCDA on the global stage. Her boundless creativity will help us to build new pathways to achieve new heights and guide our innovation as we undertake new projects.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Elisabeth Montgomery to the 3-year presidential track that begins in October of this year.
By Dr. Marilyn Maze
At the 2023 Annual Meeting we identified six issues faced in the Asia Pacific region. At the 2024 Annual Meeting, we divided into small groups to discuss these six issues. Below, the six issues are in bold font and the ideas for understanding the issues and moving forward are listed as bullets under them. Technical challenges interrupted the discussions, but these discussions did manage to clarify the issues we are facing and provide useful insights that APCDA hopes to use in the coming year to build tools to address some of these issues.
- Lack of resources, including lack of trained professionals
- Formalize training requirements and establish laws regarding credentialing
- Increase visibility of the issue through research
- Lack of public understanding of and respect for career services
- Cultural constraints:
- Parents often choose the vocation of their children. They wish to bring honor to the family, the family may have obligations to others, some use numerology, the parents’ wishes have a strong influence on the children, children have strong respect for their parents.
- Parents’ influence can also be viewed in a positive way. Parents may observe skills in the child that the child may miss.
- The passions of child may be viewed as irrelevant.
- Top performers get more attention.
- Children feel secure following the path of their parents and scared to step out of that safe zone. Some would rather feel secure working on something that’s boring rather than seeking a job they might love with more risks.
- From Yemen: The civil war has disabled the economy, leading to high unemployment, limited job prospects, and a brain drain of skilled professionals leaving the country. This, combined with disruptions to the education system and a difficult business environment, has created a very challenging environment for individuals to pursue stable and fulfilling career paths in Yemen.
- There is confusion between career counselors versus school counselors.
- The word “career” is not really familiar in many countries.
- There are not many career services that are accessible to all. It is challenging to raise awareness of the importance of career services.
- Many career centers focus on finding a job for students instead of helping students in their career exploration.
- Lack of quality standards for career services
- It is challenging to implement career guidance considering the rapid technology advances
- Distinction between mental health counseling and career counseling is unclear.
- Several discussants mentioned the Career Services Standards of other associations, but none mentioned the APCDA Career Services Standards. Perhaps we need to put more effort into teaching our members about our Career Services Standards and how they can be useful.
- Social Justice Issues (better services for wealthy, but fewer for the poor)
- No one reported on this discussion.
- Conflict between personal preference for working from home (WFH) and corporate preference for working from office (WFO)
- Corporations continue to fear a decrease in productivity with WFH
- Hybrid work leaves a lot of resources wasted (empty office building on certain days)
- Hybrid options could be proposed to balance mental health and productivity, and to increase work/life balance.
- The casualization of the workforce (parttime, temporary workers receive fewer benefits than fulltime, permanent workers)
- Some participants cited examples of organizations that treat parttime workers well.
- We need to focus on planetary issues and allow local problem solving.
In July and September, 2023, APCDA held 2 webinars on Intersectionality, which explores power relationships and discrimination. These 2 webinars are available in the APCDA Store.
We learned that focusing on one area or another (gender, race and ethnic identity, (dis)ability, socio-economic status, etc.) allows us to examine how specific identities affect people in different ways. This focus also helps us to understand which elements contribute most to discrimination on each level. While doing so, however, we must keep in mind that the intersections of identities are indeed endless and should be considered in terms of each other. An intersectional approach recognizes that these multiple intersections exist in endless combinations, and that they can sometimes lead to privilege and sometimes to discrimination. We must continually question where the power lies in different societies, organizations and groups to understand why some individuals are treated better than others, find it easier to be successful, or are more readily included. Only by doing this can we start to see who is excluded or discriminated against. Intersectionality, therefore, encourages solidarity, highlighting that all struggles for freedom from oppression are interlinked and that they can all benefit by interacting with each other. By working together we can all begin to strengthen the fight against oppression in general.
After these workshops, we received a toolkit with 4 activities for exploring intersectionality. APCDA is eager to understand how useful this workbook may be to our members. We have identified four volunteers, in 4 different countries, who promise to use our new toolkit with a group of people by June, 2024. These activities can be used with a group of students, a group of colleagues, a church group, a corporate group, or any other setting in which you have the opportunity to interact with 8 to 25 other people at one time. As you know if you attended these webinars, the outcome of using these materials will be increased understanding among members of the group and increased respect for the uniqueness of each member in the group.
Are you available to explore this important topic, to build your own skills in using this concept, and to help a group of people you interact with to come closer to each other? This pilot project is happening now – please join us. If you are willing to volunteer, please reply to Info@AsiaPacificCDA.org
By Arun Mittal
The Asia Pacific Career Development Association (APCDA) stands as an exemplary model of a global yet local association, fostering a robust ecosystem for career professionals to learn, network, and share best practices from across the region. With a distinctive GloCal (Global + Local) approach, APCDA seamlessly integrates global perspectives while staying attuned to the unique needs and nuances of the diverse communities it serves.
The GloCal approach embodies the concept of thinking globally and acting locally. For APCDA, this means connecting career professionals across borders, transcending cultural barriers, and sharing knowledge and insights on a global scale. However, it also involves recognizing the significance of local contexts, cultural sensitivities, and regional challenges that shape career development.
Some of the examples of the GloCal Approach
- Annual Conferences: These events feature international keynote speakers, workshops, and presentations on emerging tends in career development. Simultaneously, the conferences also include local experts who provide insights into the unique job markets, career aspirations, and industry demands specific to the host country.
- Webinars and Online Resources: The association provides a wealth of online resources, including webinars, articles, and glossaries that cater to the diverse needs of its members. While some resources address universal career challenges, others are tailored to address region-specific issues (Arabic Glossary of Career Terms), ensuring that career professionals can find relevant information applicable to their local communities.
- Collaborative Research Projects: APCDA encourages research collaboration among its members across the Asia Pacific region. This allows for the synthesis of overarching career development principles while acknowledging the influence of cultural differences on individual career journeys.
This approach has been of immense help to both the associations and career professionals in our region. The benefits to the individual career practitioners include,
- Enhanced Cultural Sensitivity: Career professionals working in the Asia Pacific region encounter a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. The GloCal approach helps them develop a heightened sense of cultural sensitivity, enabling them to support clients with respect and understanding, regardless of their background.
- Global Best Practices: By tapping into a global network, APCDA members gain exposure to the latest innovations and successful practices from around the world. They can adapt and implement these best practices to suit local contexts, leading to more effective and relevant career counseling and guidance.
- Access to a Diverse Network: The APCDA network opens avenues for career professionals to connect with colleagues, mentors, and experts across borders. This diverse network fosters professional growth and collaboration, leading to new opportunities and enriching career experiences.
- Leveraging Regional Expertise: The association’s local chapters possess in-depth knowledge of their respective regions. By collaborating with these chapters, career associations and professionals from other parts of the world can gain valuable insights into specific regional challenges and trends, which can be invaluable for international career counseling.
The benefits to other associations in the region are as follows,
- Cross-Pollination of Ideas: Associations in the Asia Pacific region can benefit from partnering with APCDA by exchanging ideas, resources, and expertise. This cross-pollination of ideas can lead to fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to mutual challenges faced by career professionals.
- Access to Global Partnerships: By joining hands with APCDA, regional associations can gain access to a global network of career professionals and organizations. This opens doors to potential international collaborations, joint research projects, and opportunities for their members to expand their horizons.
- Professional Development Opportunities: APCDA’s focus on learning and development means that associations in the region can tap into a wide array of training programs, workshops, and webinars that contribute to the growth of their members’ professional skill sets.
Closing Notes
The association’s GloCal approach has proven to be a winning formula in creating a strong ecosystem for career professionals in the region. By embracing global perspectives while respecting local nuances, APCDA has become a powerful platform that empowers its members to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. Through collaboration and association with APCDA, other career development organizations in the region can also unlock new opportunities, strengthen their impact, and enrich the lives of career professionals they serve.
#CDAA, #CDANZ, #IAEVG, #JCDA, #NCDA, #NPOCA, #PCDA
Did you know that you automatically become a member of the International Association of Educational and Vocation Guidance (IAEVG) when you join APCDA? Each year, APCDA pays dues to IAEVG for all of our members.
IAEVG has a 75-year history of providing global leadership in and advocating for guidance by promoting ethical, socially just, and best practices throughout the world so that career, educational and vocational guidance and counselling is available to all citizens from competent and qualified practitioners.
Behind the scenes, IAEVG and many of its members have helped in the development of APCDA. When we want to develop resources for our members, such as our Ethical Guidelines, we turn first to IAEVG for guidance. As the oldest career development association that is truly international, the materials provided by IAEVG are very relevant and helpful in jump-starting our development.
Members are invited to get a copy of the new Member Logo from the APCDA Website. The legal agreement published on our website makes it possible for us to provide a logo for use by our members. We currently have five kinds of member logos:
- Individual Members
- Organization Members
- Lifetime Members
- Legacy Partner Lifetime
- Professional associations which offer Joint Membership with APCDA (Affiliates)
If you fall into groups 1 or 4, please go to our website at https://AsiaPacificCDA.org and click “Member Portal.” Choose Workspaces, and your member logos (as JPG or PNG files) should be waiting there for you to download. If you fall into the fifth group, you should have received the logo from us by email.