Tomorrow kicks off Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, which occurs annually in the month of May. This month, we honor and recognize the invaluable contributions of AAPI communities across generations. Through our value of inclusion, the Asian Social Professional Innovative and Resourceful Employees (ASPIRE) employee network group strives to elevate Pan-Asian leadership within Protiviti while bolstering the company’s Inclusion program and reinforce Protiviti’s mission, values, and targeted outcomes by:
- Promoting an inclusive and supportive working environment that fosters open communication and the sharing of stories – all employees are encouraged to engage and contribute
- Supporting the attraction, recruitment, and retention of Pan-Asian professionals and allies
- Building sustained partnerships with community and business organizations to amplify Pan-Asian voices and address common lived experiences
- Advocating cultural awareness in the firm and across our communities
- Emphasizing the broader organizational benefits of diversity, such as richer discussions, better decision-making, and a more vibrant corporate culture which are enhanced by the contributions and perspectives of employees from all backgrounds
This year, our theme is Legacy and Culture: Honoring Our Roots, Shaping Our Future. As we continue to move forward, we are focusing on professional development while celebrating the richness of our diverse communities. This month, we are sharing unique stories that define our collective history and working to ensure that the experiences of AAPI individuals are preserved and celebrated. Through this, we honor the past, enrich the present, and build a future that reflects our vibrant cultural heritage.
Leadership Spotlight – Mohandas Thoduvayil Nelliot
We had the pleasure of catching up with Mohandas Thoduvayil Nelliot, a Senior Analyst for our Americas Delivery Center (ADC) location. Mohandas recently started a new ASPIRE chapter for the Cincinnati office, marking an exciting milestone for ASPIRE!
What does ASPIRE mean to you?
ASPIRE means a very welcoming, diverse, open, supportive, and inclusive environment where we get to meet our colleagues, form new relationships, and unite and overcome barriers which may exist. ASPIRE, as an ENG is not just confined to the Asian community and welcomes everyone from the ADC. Our ASPIRE Chapter has enthusiastic members who brainstorm ideas, plan and organize successful events, which helps to build camaraderie. The energy and community built makes the time and effort worthwhile! I am always inspired by the thoughtful, hardworking, and enthusiastic team that creates magic with every event. I am very grateful to each member, the ASPIRE team, and the ADC Leadership for their continued support.
Why did you decide to start an ASPIRE ADC Chapter?
The primary intention to start the ASPIRE ADC Chapter was to create a safe, collaborative, and engaging space for my colleagues. It was created to be a fun, social environment in between their busy work schedules. The ASPIRE ADC chapter enhances employee morale and is an ideal platform for creating memories and meeting others at work. It has been a pleasure to spend quality time with dear friends, enjoy celebrations, and to share cultural traditions and values.
What is one of your proudest accomplishments?
One of my proudest accomplishments is making a trip to Utah and visiting Zion National Park in June 2023. Zion National Park is one of five major national parks in the United States. I decided to take up the solo challenge of hiking from Red Cliffs to Quail Creek State Park (12 miles). This was my longest hike in the US. It was a great feeling to be in the breathtaking beauty of nature!
AAPI Heritage Month Events
Below are a few ways on how we plan to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month at Protiviti, highlighting our culture and connecting it to life at Protiviti to create a lasting impact.
- A Legacy Out of This World Keynote Speaker –In partnership with Robert Half’s Asian Professionals for Excellence (APEX) employee network group, ASPIRE is hosting a conversation with a civil rights trailblazer, 2022 Time Woman of the Year, and Noble Peace Prize nominee. Together we will discuss her journey of advocacy and relate it to the significance of legacy and culture in creating impactful change.
- Leader Talk: Find Your Joy and Be a Winner at Work – In celebration of AAPI Heritage Month, ASPIRE is hosting a Leader Talk with Rachel Hong, Associate Director. Rachel will share her journey in finding joy, cultivating happiness, and staying connected to her passions and values.
- Fundraiser: Heart of Dinner – Feeding Generations, Honoring Legacies – ASPIRE will host a national fitness campaign as we give back and raise awareness for Heart of Dinner, a non-profit dedicated to supporting Asian American elders. Each hour of physical activity logged will give funds back to support Heart of Dinner and provide care packages to the elderly in under-resourced and under invested communities.
- Boba & Brainpower: Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month – To end AAPI Heritage Month, ASPIRE is hosting a fun-filled boba networking and trivia social where attendees will have the opportunity to connect with new and old colleagues, enjoy their favorite drink, and test their knowledge with exciting trivia!
Protiviti proudly supports AAPI communities, empowering our employees to reach their full potential. Happy AAPI Heritage Month from us to you!
