Hiroshi Limmell

Hiroshi Limmell is Senior Assistant Director, Employee Engagement and Wellbeing at Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)

Hiroshi Limmell has made significant contributions to the field of employee wellbeing within the public service sector, using his background in journalism in Channel NewsAsia to garner insights into business and public concerns, that address gaps in mental health strategies. His initiative to establish a peer-support programme and mental health training in the workplace began in 2017 demonstrates a commitment to improving workplace environments. The Wellness Ambassador Programme has seen a positive shift in staff wellbeing across various entities fostering a supportive community within the workplace, which started modestly, has grown into an organisation-wide effort, reflecting Hiroshi’s ability to mobilise and inspire action within the public service.

Hiroshi’s involvement in the creation of the first Wellness Report is a notable effort that showcases his ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders in various Research Institute and Senior Management. This collaboration has led to the implementation of various initiatives aimed at enhancing employee wellbeing, including soft skills training for managers, the formation of social clubs, and the dissemination of resources on wellbeing. These initiatives, while impactful, represent a part of a larger effort to address mental health in the workplace, indicating room for ongoing development and improvement.

Hiroshi marked World Mental Health Day with “The Eye Contact Experiment”, led by volunteers. This novel social initiative underscored the value of positive interpersonal connections and garnered organisation-wide attention. Data from the experiment led to a paper that highlighted the need for human connection and the ways genuine connection raises one’s sense of wellbeing and optimism. The success of this experiment aims to boost mental health awareness and foster a more connected workplace environment. Hiroshi’s work has certainly made a positive impact and is recognised within the public service sector, it is part of a broader movement towards enhancing employee wellbeing. His contributions, significant as they are, represent steps towards a larger goal of transforming workplace mental health. This portrayal acknowledges Hiroshi’s efforts and achievements on a more balanced scale, appreciating his contributions while recognizing the collective effort involved in advancing employee wellbeing.

Hiroshi is also a speaker at Beyond Activ World in Singapore.