Evonne Quek: our volunteer for the soap studio
“I especially resonate with the holistic approach of 6 Degrees”
Evonne (36 years old) was born and raised in the sunny island city state of Singapore, as she states it. She wanted to volunteer in Nepal and came across 6 Degrees’ website. “The commitment and sustainable activities that the organisation supports left a significant impression on me and before I knew it, I was having an online chat with Debbie and Gita,” says Evonne, who recently gave a marketing training to the women of the soap project.
Basic principles
“This is my second time in Nepal, and I am happy to be back for a meaningful cause.
The marketing training is intended to teach the Musahar ladies the basic principles of soap marketing. I want them to understand why some soaps can have higher prices and how to calculate the price based on various costs. And make them realise that there are different types of buyers and needs. In the training I am using examples and role plays, for easy understanding.
I let them develop their own soap concept, inspired by their own environment and favourite scents. That was fun and meaningful.
Why 6 Degrees?
“I was certainly very impressed by the activities. I particularly resonate with 6 Degrees' holistic approach through upskilling and unlocking potential, allowing local women to develop themselves in sustainable ways. I saw a good fit for my skills and was super excited to contribute in any way I can,” says Evonne.
“Women empowerment is important to me because I have always been surrounded by strong female figures, at work and at home. It was never any question whether a woman could achieve a position of significance in the environment in which I grew up.
But of course, this is not the same in many countries and cultures. This became increasingly apparent as I had more opportunities to travel and work in different countries.”
Service Improvement
She worked in Dubai last year. Her background is in service design in the aviation industry, specifically Airport Operations. Frontline training and service improvement are part of her daily work. She also mentors young professionals who are new to the workplace or seeking career transitions.
Her passion lies in the mountains, on trails and always looking for new hiking routes.
Facilitate
Evonne has completed the training sessions. “The women were eager to learn and curious. Although they are modest about their ideas, they are open to new ways of learning and doing. They quickly adopted the new processes when they saw and understood a better way of doing things.”
“I see my role as an enabler, showing them new ideas and suggesting ways to improve. Ultimately, they are the hands that will implement the ideas and tasks. I find such an experience extremely meaningful, and it is a privilege to be able to do this.
My best tip? 'Simple is best'.”