To mark World Mental Health Day on October 10th, Ford Thailand launched a comprehensive initiative emphasizing the importance of mental wellbeing, aligning its efforts with the RUOK? Day - an annual event encouraging people to check in on each other and foster a culture of support. The initiative sparked meaningful conversations across International Markets Group (IMG) regions, raising crucial awareness of mental health among employees.
Highlight of Ford Thailand’s program was the virtual panel discussion open to all IMG employees. The panel featured IMG leaders including Gangapriya Chakraverti, managing director and India site head, Fadi Mawal, IMG chief finance officer, Elelwani Mudau, new model and supply manager of Ford South Africa, as well as mental health expert Dujdao Vadhanapakorn, specialized in emphatic communication. Moderated by Sophie Burzacott, HR business partner of Ford Australia. The discussion highlighted IMG's commitment to supporting employee mental health, and drew over 600 participants from across the global with overwhelmingly positive feedback. The panel showcased the diverse mental health resources available within each market, emphasized culturally sensitive support and the role each team plays in fostering a supportive, mentally healthy work environment.
Complementing the panel, Ford Thailand Mindfulness Club and the Ford Empowering Diverse Abilities (FEDA) also offered mindfulness mediation session at three locations: Bangkok, Ford Thailand Manufacturing (FTM) and Auto Alliance (Thailand) plants. Additionally, employees also had a chance to visit roadshow booths set up at these three locations to learn more about mental health services covered by group health insurance and receive practical tips on starting conversations about mental wellbeing using the RUOK? framework.
Sukkamon Sopachote, senior HR business partner, Ford ASEAN succinctly summarized the day’s significance, "Raising awareness about these sensitive yet essential topics is more crucial than ever, as we foresee a growing importance in mental health among our employees. Today's events have brought important conversations to the forefront, helping us build an environment where every voice is heard and supported."
Ford Thailand’s comprehensive World Mental Health Day celebration is a testament to the company's unwavering commitment to employee wellbeing. By combining a regional panel discussions and localized awareness campaigns and practical initiatives, Ford is leading the way in creating a supportive and inclusive workplace where mental health is not just acknowledged but celebrated. This commitment empowers employees to prioritize their wellbeing, knowing they are valued and supported.
