Empowering youth, seniors and neurodiverse talents in Hong Kong and Singapore

Annie Cheung, CEO of RGF Staffing in Hong Kong and Singapore (HKSG), observes: “There remains a disconnect in the labor market, as employers increasingly seek skills and experiences that are not always readily available. Through our RGF Connect program, we are committed to building a more equitable and inclusive workplace, empowering individuals to realize their potential and thrive in the current employment landscape.”

Understanding people’s needs and strengths

The local RGF Connect initiatives of RGF Staffing HKSG focus on three target groups: youth aged 18–25, seniors, and neurodiverse talents. Annie believes progress begins with understanding. For older generations, adapting to digital developments is an urgent priority. Students face the challenge of preparing for interviews and making confident first steps into their careers. Neurodiverse talents, such as those with ADHD or autism, require individually tailored support that highlights what makes them unique. Annie: “For instance, individuals with autism often excel at focusing and have a keen eye for detail. We believe everyone, no matter their age or background, has valuable qualities, and it’s our role to recognize and share these skills with current and future employers.” 

Creating dialogue and partnerships

From the very beginning, RGF Connect has been about fostering collaboration – both between candidates and employers, and among diverse community partners. The program encourages honest conversations and deeper listening, Annie emphasizes. “Our focus in this program is not on people who fit neatly into a certain category and placing them at a job position as quick as possible. Through RGF Connect, we want to help create jobs for underprivileged groups.” Clients and partners recognize and appreciate this approach, joining in the mission to make every placement both meaningful and impactful. Annie: “This approach makes us stand out, strengthens our networks with both candidates and clients, and ultimately leads to greater long-term success in placing the right people at the right jobs.” 

Training consultants to bring out potential

Earlier this year, RGF Staffing HKSG organized an interactive training session for consultants in partnership with Generation Hong Kong (HK). The workshop improved consultants’ ability to support neurodiverse individuals and create opportunities for them– not only through traditional assessment but with empathy and personal attention. Practical exercises and real success stories led to new insights. Annie describes the moment staff realized how much impact small adjustments in dialogue and attitude could have: “These examples inspired our team by showing how empathy and tailored interaction are vital in unlocking an individual’s potential.” Consultants left the workshop more confident, ready to spot strengths and help young candidates succeed. 

Empowering youth and students for tomorrow’s workforce

RGF Staffing HKSG empowers youth and students by partnering with organizations to provide targeted career-readiness workshops, helping nearly 150 participants explore career paths, develop social skills and gain confidence as they enter the job market. They also facilitate volunteer opportunities at seminars like the Networking Forum on diversity and inclusion, giving young people direct exposure to real-world business environments and valuable networking experiences. Annie and her team continually experiment with innovations such as AI-supported interview preparation, making recruitment more engaging and accessible for every candidate.

Annie Cheung: “I am deeply committed to my role, approaching every aspect with genuine passion. This dedication motivates me to keep contributing.”

New paths for seniors

Seniors often face exclusion as industries change, but RGF Staffing HKSG is dedicated to tackling these issues through digital upskilling and tailored job programs for this group. The team collaborates with employers to identify opportunities where seniors’ experience and reliability can be an asset, such as in client call centers. By fostering community engagement and partnerships, the RGF Connect program aims to keep seniors connected and engaged, addressing not only economic challenges but also helping to combat the feelings of isolation that result from career and labor market changes.

Lasting support and growth

What makes RGF Connect unique is not just that it helps candidates take the all-important first steps toward employment but supports them throughout the journey that follows. Coaches and project partners maintain strong connections with participants, following up to offer advice, celebrating successes, and by creating new opportunities. Annie is passionate about this ongoing commitment: “I am deeply committed to my role, approaching every aspect with genuine passion”, Annie says. “This dedication motivates me to keep contributing – even after retirement – by providing career coaching to the youth. I truly value the RGF Connect program and look forward to applying the experience I have gained throughout my career to help others in the future.”

Building an inclusive labor market

RGF Connect’s journey in Hong Kong and Singapore is just beginning. With each training session, workshop, meaningful conversation and new initiative, Annie and her team continue to break barriers – empowering individuals and building a truly inclusive labor market in Hong Kong and Singapore.