Hyderabad, Apr 08: WE Hub, India’s first state-led organisation for women entrepreneurs, recently hosted the India pilot of a global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) training programme in collaboration with HERALBONY Co., Ltd. and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The three-day programme brought together CEOs, HR leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs for a meaningful dialogue on building more inclusive organisations.
Founded by twin brothers Takaya Matsuda and Fumito Matsuda, HERALBONY is a Japan-based creative agency that works with artists with disabilities, connecting their artwork with companies and institutions worldwide. With a collection of over 2,000 artworks by neurodiverse artists, the organisation has developed a sustainable model that ensures fair royalties for artists while reshaping perceptions of disability through art and design.
Delivered in India for the first time by Japanese facilitators, the programme served as a pilot initiative aimed at refining the training model for future global expansion. Through interactive simulations, reflective exercises, and group discussions, participants explored how social norms are often shaped—often unconsciously—by the privileges of the majority. The workshop also highlighted how leading organisations globally are embedding inclusion into leadership practices, organisational culture, and innovation strategies.
The sessions sparked thoughtful conversations and deep reflection among participants. Leaders engaged openly with the exercises, noting that the experience challenged familiar assumptions and offered new perspectives on how inclusion can be meaningfully practiced within organisations. Participants came away with a renewed understanding of how inclusive thinking can shape leadership, workplace culture, and innovation.
The programme concluded with a dinner hosted by WE Hub, bringing together distinguished guests and partners who supported the initiative. The evening was attended by Sri. B. Ajith Reddy, IDES, Special Secretary to Hon’ble Chief Minister, Govt. of Telangana; Mr. TAKEUCHI Takuro, Chief Representative, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), India; Smt. Divya Devarajan, IAS, CEO, SERP and Commissioner for PR&RD, Government of Telangana; Mr. Nikhil Chakravarthi, IA&AS, Director, Commissionerate of Industries, Government of Telangana; Mr. Gareth Owen, British Deputy High Commissioner; Ms. Laura Williams, Consul General, United States Consulate General, Hyderabad; Dr. Sujiv Nair, Board of Director, WE Hub; Ms. Sita Pallacholla, CEO, WE Hub; and, among others.
