Association News

President’s Message: Winter & Summer - Seasons for Rest, Reflection, Renewal & Nurturing of the Crop

By Allan Gatenby, APCDA President

One of the many joys of working across the equator is that we are experiencing opposites of seasons. Yet remarkably the seasons compliment each other. Currently, we are living through either winter, the season of rest, reflection, renewal or summer, the season of nurturing the crop to enable an abundant harvest. 

Planning for this coming year are well advanced. Significant achievements already being noted. Our goals for this year are to: 

  • Enhance our financial position. Following 2 years of low revenue our reserves have decreased slightly. But already we can see confidence growing through a positive response to this year’s conference; the increased donation, as well as a project team looking at APCDA business plan. With increased membership, diversifying revenue streams our goal is to build financial stability, without increasing membership fees.
  • Proactive leadership of our committees and councils has resulted in more member engagement at the same time enhancing the value of membership. I commend all committee chairs and area representatives for the activities they have initiated and supported. We will see huge benefits flowing from more integrated, collaborative activities focussed upon raising the relevance, value and impact of APCDA membership. We can look forward to the launch of a new discussion point on the members, enhancing the impact of webinars; We can look forward to announcements at the conference about a mentoring program along with Accreditation of Local Organization Educational Programs (LOEP) which will support and recognise local initiatives and programs. These projects would not be possible without the increased coordination between committees and councils.

Through greater involvement, increasing diverse activities, clear purposeful projects and by reaching out to partners our intention is to enhance and better support future leaders. We can already notice increasing initiative and creativity in committee activity, conference presentations, scholarship and strategic partnering. Training on the use of Member 365 is raising both the APCDA flag and opportunities for our very diverse membership & region. It is particularly exciting to see how members are beginning to use the member portal, reaching out to communities beyond APCDA and providing support not only to our members but also to colleagues still operating in the many zones of conflict around the globe. With the rapidly changing socio-political environment, career development practitioners will become even more significant frontliners.

This year’s conference in Zhengzhou, China, highlights the importance of APCDA and our profession to not only embrace AI but also for our profession to demonstrate leadership and professional richness as the new normal emerges. As a profession, we are well positioned to develop what Margeret Wheatley describes as ‘islands of sanity’. Active participation in this year’s conference will bring unimagined benefits. Virtual participation offers global networking opportunities. Personal attendance helps us build bridges between career development professionals, across professional sectors as well as between east and west. Experience the incredible history that China offers and learn from its traditions and wisdom and work together to create an island of sanity.

These are crazy times, with each day seemingly bringing the unexpected. For many these times are overwhelming. However, we can and do make a difference. Hence, I share with you some thoughts about chaos because chaos is the catalyst for creativity and change:

  • “In the middle of chaos, there is also opportunity.” – Sun Tzu
  • “The more chaotic the world becomes, the more we have to create peace within ourselves.” – Unknown
  • “Chaos is not a pit. Chaos is a ladder.” – George R.R. Martin, A Game of Thrones
  • “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” – Viktor E. Frankl
  • “Do not fear chaos. It is a necessary ingredient in the recipe of greatness.” – Unknown

I am confident that together we can create an island from which, given the creativity and talent without APCDA we can build a better future for more.

Let’s gather in Zhangzhou, explore these fascinating times past, present and future. Let’s join hands and recommit ourselves to inspire, support, and enable.

Allan

APCDA Committee Council February 2025 Update

By Natalie Kauffman, Committee Council Chair

APCDA’s eight currently active committee volunteer staff along with journal volunteer staff total almost 100 association members and span the following 21 countries: Australia, Canada, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Hong Kong, Kenya, Lebanon, Macau, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Samoa, Singapore, S. Korea, Taiwan, United States, Vietnam, and Yemen.

Awards & Scholarships Committee Awards Co-Chair (& former APCDA President), Prof. Dr. Narender K Chadha, shared the deadline for our 2025 APCDA Awards is fast approaching, March 15th. The three (3) possible awards include: Outstanding Career Practitioner Award, Outstanding Educator of Career Professionals Award, and Lifetime Achievement Award. Please see https://asiapacificcda.org/awards/, for further details on our association’s 2025 Awards Nomination Process.

Co-Chair Tuan Anh Le and the Scholarship team met through email. They have been sharing the Scholarship Application information with their respective networks. They plan to follow-up with scholarship applicants, send out results, and create and share a video of the selected scholarship recipients during our upcoming China conference.

 Natalie Kauffman and Kunimitsu Kuki, Membership Committee Co-Chairs, and the Membership Committee have been enjoying meeting with NEW and potential APCDA members through individual and group Orientations and Meetups. They are delighted to share that association membership is on the rise! Soon a committee sub-group will be planning the next Community of Practice gathering; designed for ALL APCDA members to showcase their respective Career Development STRENGTHS connected to one of our important field skills.

Nominations & Elections Committee Chair (& immediate past APCDA President), Dr. Serene Lin-Stephens wants to remind us all, “it’s not too early to be thinking about running or nominating an association member for President!” You will begin to hear more about our association’s Nominations & Elections Process during the upcoming conference in China. Dr. Lin-Stephens looks forward to virtually introducing some of the nominees during our annual June Membership Meeting.

Since the new APCDA fiscal year began in October 2024, Co-Chairs, Dr. Sujata Ives, Syed Hassan Abdullah, and the Program Committee have been enjoying programming and providing podcasts, webinars, and their new Insight Exchange (IE’s 1st session will be provided at the end of March). They are proud to share their 3 top registered webinars included January’s “Unlocking the Power of AI” with 660 registrants, December’s “Holland’s RIASEC Hexagon” with 405 registrants, and November’s “The Value of Micro-credentials” with 160 registrants.

Co-Chair Dr. Poh Li Lau and the Research team recently met through Zoom. They discussed research collaboration and how to categorize APCDA Conference topics to identify popular trends. They are looking to select a new co-chair. Perhaps this is the time to join the team?

Dr. Poh Li Lau is also editor of our APCD Journal. Our Associate Editors include:

  • Amberyce Ang, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore
  • Sang Min Lee, Korea University, South Korea
  • Serene Lin-Stephens, RMIT University, Australia
  • Hsiu-Lan (Shelley) Tien, National Taiwan Normal University, Taiwan

Our Journal leadership kindly invites you to submit your article for the Fall Journal issue. To find out more regarding the guidelines for submitting articles. Please connect to the following APCDA web page & scroll down to click and find out more.

In closing, our committees and journal warmly thanks all their volunteer staff and cordially invites you, yes you, to attend their next virtual committee and/or journal gathering.

February Area Council Report

By Arun Mittal

The Asia Pacific Career Development Association (APCDA) regularly gathers insights from country and area representatives to track economic, labor market, and career development trends across the region. This article presents a thematic analysis of the key trends reported in February 2025, highlighting the evolving employment landscape, government policies, and innovative approaches to career guidance.

1.Economic Growth and Labor Market Trends

Economic Performance and Labor Market Shifts

Economic and employment trends continue to be shaped by global and regional factors, including technological transformation, policy changes, and industry evolution.

  • Vietnam is undergoing major public sector reforms, merging ministries to improve efficiency, with labor management shifting to the Ministry of Education and Training. Ho Chi Minh City launched its first metro line, with further infrastructure improvements planned.
  • Malaysia’s GDP grew by 4.3% in 2024, driven by digitalization, manufacturing, and green economy initiatives. However, youth unemployment remains a concern at 9.8%.
  • Japan reported modest GDP growth of 0.3%, but concerns remain about economic stagnation and labor market sustainability.
  • India continues to focus on infrastructure development, digital transformation, and employment programs as outlined in its latest budget.
  • Pakistan projects 2.09% GDP growth for 2024-2025, signaling slow but steady recovery.
  • China has shifted its economic focus to New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), emerging as the world’s largest automobile exporter, surpassing Japan.

Employment and Workforce Trends

  • Australia recorded an unemployment rate of 4%, with youth unemployment dropping to 9%. Job vacancies remain 25% above pre-pandemic levels.
  • Hong Kong maintained a 3.1% unemployment rate, while underemployment held steady at 1.1%.
  • Malaysia’s gig economy is growing, with 26% of the workforce engaged in freelance and contract-based work.
  • The United States continues to add 200,000 jobs monthly, with strong growth in healthcare and renewable energy, but uncertainty due to government policies.
  • Japan is seeing rising wages for new university graduates as companies compete for skilled talent.

2. Career Development and Education Trends

Professional Certification and Career Counseling

Career development professionals are gaining increased recognition across various regions:

  • Canada launched a National Certification for Career Development Professionals, providing a standardized credentialing system.
  • India’s National Career Service (NCS) Portal is transforming employment exchanges into career centers.
  • Pakistan’s top universities—IBA, NUST, and IoBM—are expanding structured career services to improve graduate employability.
  • Japan has introduced the Career Dock program, aimed at integrating career assessments and career counseling in workplaces.
  • Vietnam has launched an Open Library for Lesson Plans to provide structured career guidance to high school students.

University and Youth Career Programs

  • Singapore has expanded work-study programs in universities and polytechnics to increase youth employability.
  • Macau’s Alumni Mentorship Scheme at the University of Macau connects students with professionals.
  • India’s regional career initiatives include:
    • Tamil Nadu: “Naan Mudhalvan” skill training program.
    • Karnataka: Online career portals for job seekers and students.
    • Kerala: Career Development Centers (CDCs) providing free career counseling.

Workforce Upskilling and Training Initiatives

  • The United States sees increasing demand for AI, cybersecurity, and data science certifications.
  • Australia identified 37 emerging job roles in Net Zero, AI, and medical science.
  • Malaysia allocated RM 1.5 billion for workforce upskilling and micro-credentialing.
  • Pakistan’s e-Rozgaar Program aims to equip youth with digital skills to enter freelancing and technology fields.
  • India sees increasing employment opportunities in AI, blockchain, and automation.

3. Government Policies and Workforce Regulations

Key Policy Developments
  • Vietnam has restructured government ministries to improve labor market efficiency.
  • Canada anticipates changes in public career services due to upcoming federal elections.
  • Hong Kong will implement the abolition of MPF offsetting in May 2025, benefiting employees.
  • Malaysia is strengthening public-private partnerships to boost digital workforce development.
  • The United States faces hiring freezes and uncertainty due to government policy shifts.
  • India’s tax incentives and workforce reforms aim to enhance employment growth.

Gig Economy and Workplace Flexibility

  • Malaysia’s gig workforce continues expanding, comprising 26% of total employment.
  • The United States sees hybrid work models gaining traction, though big tech firms push for office returns.
  • Australia’s part-time workforce now constitutes 31% of total employment.

4.Technology, AI, and the Future of Work

Impact of AI and Automation

  • The United States is witnessing increasing automation, requiring career shifts for displaced workers.
  • Malaysia estimates that 12% of its workforce is at risk due to automation.
  • China is positioning itself as a global AI leader, with 2025 expected to be the “Year of AI” for Chinese industries.

AI-Driven Career Development

  • Malaysia is integrating AI into job-matching and career counseling platforms.
  • China’s DeepSeek R1 AI model is making AI more affordable and accessible for career services.

5.Inclusion, Well-Being, and Workplace Diversity

Workplace Well-Being Initiatives

  • The United States is prioritizing mental health and well-being in career development.
  • Australia is promoting neurodiversity and disability inclusion programs.

Diversity and Inclusion Policies

  • Malaysia is expanding employment opportunities for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
  • Singapore is fostering inclusive hiring practices through government and corporate partnerships.

6.Global Career Development Events and Networking

Conferences and International Collaboration

  • Canada’s Cannexus Conference remains one of the largest career development events in the world.
  • Macau’s UNU Training Camps have focused on AI and sustainability in career planning.
  • Canada is advocating for an International Career Development Day at the United Nations.

Closing Notes

The APCDA February 2025 report highlights the dynamic shifts in employment, education, and workforce policies across the region. While economic uncertainties and automation pose challenges, many governments and career development professionals are embracing upskilling, AI-driven solutions, and inclusive policies to support workers in an evolving job market. Collaboration across borders, investment in career guidance, and flexible work models will continue shaping the future of career development in the Asia-Pacific region.

For further insights and updates, stay connected with APCDA’s research and upcoming conference.

Insight Exchange Program Details


Insight Exchange is a new program that will launch in March 2025. This article shares more information about the program so that you can determine if you want to engage with it.

How does it work?

  • Every other month, there will be a meeting organized on a topic.
  • The topic and associated resources will be given in advance.
  • The resources will be in the form of scholarly and non-scholarly articles, videos, webinars, podcast and/or other formats.
  • You will be expected to come to the session having reviewed the materials. It sounds a bit like university, but the idea is that having a common context will make for a productive discussion.
  • This is a peer learning forum, and you will be expected to contribute, discuss, challenge, and question, with the intent that at end of the meeting you will know more than when you registered for it. This is not the right forum for quiet listening in.
  • There will be a topic expert to answer unresolved questions. They will not attend the meeting but will give their insights post the meeting.
  • Please note that registration is capped at 20 pax and meetings will not be recorded.

How will the topics be selected?
The APCDA membership survey has identified career theories and practices; labour trends; professional skills; wellness issues; assessment tools; job search; and intersectionality topics as themes that members are interested in. The IE topics will be aligned to these themes. IE will also try to align some topics with APCDA webinars to give members opportunity to carry forward discussions from webinars.

What happens after registration?
You will get a confirmation email with the date and time of the session as well as the list of resources for review. Please note that non-members can access session resources only through confirmation email. Members can access session resources through confirmation email OR APCDA website, which has a dedicated Insight Exchange section under ‘Resources’ tab.

Why should you join an IE meeting?
This forum is for those who want to delve deeper into a topic but with a community. We are hit with so much information that sometimes it is good to slow down a little and make sense of what it all means. The Insight Exchange will allow you to consume, chew, and marinate in a topic allowing for better digestion!
We have breakout rooms in webinars and conferences but there is limited time. The Insight Exchange sessions will be 1.5 hours. This is the same duration as the webinars, but we will use the time only for discussion.
If you want to explore slow and peer based learning, then do join us.

Questions?
For further questions, you can email Ruchira Tripathi at insightexchange@asiapacificcda.org. She will be designing and facilitating the sessions.

Using Your APCDA Member Benefits

By Dr. Marilyn Maze

APCDA is an association of people who love their work and are eager to share their expertise with others.  It is our goal to make that sharing as easy as possible. In November 2023, we moved to a new website and new member database software which offers a “Member Portal” to facilitate communication among members and displays our other member services.  Your Member Portal is a vital part of the services offered by APCDA.  The new software offers several valuable features that were previously scattered over 2 software systems. Unfortunately, networking with each other became more difficult when we switched because we were not able to copy the photo and bio of our members to the new system.  Have you updated your Member Profile in the Member Portal?  If not, we urge to do this now.  Another vital piece of information is the Country where you live.  Unfortunately, our new software hides that information under Address.  Since we do not communicate by mail, “Address” does not seem very important.  But your Country is important (and your city).  December is a month for giving.  We hope all of our members will make it easier for other members in need of your advice and assistance to find you by adding a photo of your face, a bio describing your areas of focus, and your country.  Please help us to make member networking easier.

Have you looked closely at your Member Portal?  When we moved our website, we offered a Basic video to introduce the features to you.  We have just added an Advanced video to explain in detail the many features which are unique to this new software and help you connect to each other.  Special features of the Member Portal include:

  • Member Discussion Space: You can find this under “Workspaces” in the Portal.  We invite you to share any issue you may be facing at work.  Ask for advice, and others who have experience in that area will join the discussion. 
  • If you prefer a more targeted approach, try searching the “Directory” for members who work in a similar setting. The Directory displays names, emails, and organizations for all of our members. One click takes you to the photo and bio for any member.  Please feel free to reach out to other members who you think might have similar interests.  We are all separated by large distances, but the member directory can bring us closer together.
  • The Store lists past webinars. Most are free to members, and many of the presenters are famous in our field.  It is a treasure chest filled with valuable information. 
  • My Account is the place to update your own information. Look for “My Profile” -> “Member Profile”, and don’t forget to make sure your Country is listed under “Contact Info.”  My Account also contains certification of the webinars you attended and many other pieces of information about you and your membership.

Henan Province: The Heart of China

The heart of China is believed to be in Henan Province. If you want to understand the cultural heritage of China’s 5,000-year history, Henan Museum in Zhengzhou City is a must-destination that you cannot afford to miss. The museum houses over 170,000 artifacts, including distinctive prehistoric relics, bronzes from the Shang and Zhou dynasties, ceramics from various dynasties, jade items, and more.

The pyramid-shaped main hall, inspired by the Yuan Dynasty Observatory in Dengfeng, symbolizes the Central Plains as the source of Chinese civilization. Its earth-toned exterior reflects the Yellow Earth and Yellow River, while the light blue window and skylight strip on the facade evoke the grandeur of the Yellow River flowing from the sky.

The permanent exhibition of Henan Museum “A great civilization rises with capitals established in the central plain” consists of ten galleries in seven parts: The Neolithic Age, Xia-Shang, Western Zhou, Eastern Zhou, Qin-Han-Wei-Jin-Northern and Southern dynasties, Sui-Tang, Song-Jin-Yuan, which are chronologically arranged. They display the evolution of the dynastic capital city and introduce the profound history and culture of the Central Plains.

Henan’s rich musical history is showcased through a remarkable collection of ancient musical artifacts, making it one of the most distinctive museum collections in China. Over 90% of Henan’s unearthed musical relics are ancient instruments, including the 9,000-year-old Jiahu bone flute from Wuyang, 5,000-year-old clay drums and xun, a Longshan culture stone chime, bronze bells from the Xia dynasty palace, and sets of bells and fish-shaped qing from Anyang’s Yin ruins. The collection also includes chime bells from the Western Zhou’s Ying and Guo states, along with various bells, stone chimes, and zithers from the Zhou period.

For more information, click on these links: 2025 APCDA Conference, Zhengzhou, China and the Henan Museum Tour.

Valuable Insights from the 2024 APCDA Member/Friend Survey

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

  1. Work Tasks: Help clients understand their strengths, values, and interests
  2. Contribution to society: Make the world happier by helping clients find work they enjoy
  3. Learning: Continuously learn about new ideas and trends
  4. 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:

  1. Professional development (conference, webinars)
  2. Multi-cultural interactions
  3. Collaboration and peer support
  4. News about career development in this region
  5. Encouraging practitioner research
  6. 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:

  1. Topic
  2. Speaker(s)
  3. 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.

Empower the Future: Support APCDA’s Scholarship Funds

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

Establishing the KazCDA Branch and Career Development Initiative in Kazakhstan

By Gaini Yessembekova and Liliya Tleukenova

Career counseling and development are now integral components of education systems around the world, playing a crucial role in shaping the career trajectories of students and young professionals. At Nazarbayev University, the establishment of the Kazakhstan Career Development Association (KazCDA), an affiliate of the Asia Pacific Career Development Association (APCDA), marks a significant milestone for Kazakhstan. Officially launched in March 2024 through a formal agreement with APCDA, this initiative sets the stage for adopting international best practices in career counseling and professional development across the nation’s universities. It represents a key step in ensuring that our students are equipped with the tools and knowledge to succeed in an increasingly competitive global workforce. Since Nazarbayev University’s Career and Advising Center (CAC) became a member of APCDA in 2016, we’ve taken an active role in fostering the exchange of ideas and best practices in career development. One of our proudest achievements was successfully hosting the APCDA 2023 conference in Astana, under the theme “A New Perspective on Careers in a Rapidly Changing World.” This hybrid event was the culmination of two years of intense preparation and collaboration with local and international experts. The event was a resounding success, and Nazarbayev University was honored with the APCDA Conference Host Award, firmly positioning us as leaders in the career development field. Building on this success, the idea to establish the Kazakhstan Career Development Association (KazCDA) naturally emerged as the next step in our mission to enhance career services across the nation. KazCDA’s primary goal is to modernize career services in Kazakhstan’s universities, ensuring they are aligned with global best practices. We are committed to providing comprehensive training for career officers, equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and expertise needed to guide students through today’s dynamic and evolving job market. This initiative reflects my ongoing dedication to fostering career development and professional growth not just at NU, but across Kazakhstan.

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

Steps to Make a Difference: Summary of Annual Meeting Discussion

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.

  1. Lack of resources, including lack of trained professionals
  • Formalize training requirements and establish laws regarding credentialing
  • Increase visibility of the issue through research
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  2. Social Justice Issues (better services for wealthy, but fewer for the poor)
    • No one reported on this discussion.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

Exploring Intersectionality: A Pilot Project

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

Nurturing a GloCal Ecosystem for Career Professionals

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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,

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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,

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

IAEVG Membership – A Benefit of APCDA Membership

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.

APCDA Member Logos

APCDA Member LogosMembers are invited to download a copy of the Member Logo from the APCDA Website. The legal agreement published on our website makes it possible for our members to use this logo on your website, signature, or letterhead.  We currently have five kinds of member logos:

  1. Individual Members
  2. Organization Members
  3. Lifetime Members
  4. Legacy Partner Lifetime
  5. Professional associations which offer Joint Membership with APCDA (Affiliates)

If you fall into groups 1 to 4, please go to our website at 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.