About 46,000 volunteers from Deloitte in India invest time and expertise towards learning and skill development for local communities

Mumbai: Deloitte in India marked its 17th annual Impact Day in two phases—the first on 29 November and the second on 6 December 2019. The initiative is driven by volunteers, most of whom are millennials. Project leaders select causes they are committed to, and collaborate with internal teams and non-profit organisations to plan day-long programmes. This initiative focuses on taking small steps to prepare beneficiaries for the future of work, thus empowering them to realise their aspirations.

“Skilling is to take primacy if we are to grow as a country. The onus does not rest on any one single stakeholder, but everyone who can make an impact. Most of our people are millennials and they strongly wish to play a positive role. They do not wish to be spectators, but active participants,” said S.V. Nathan, Chief Talent Officer, Deloitte India.

This year, some of the projects are based on themes such as career counselling, coaching on interview skills, learning through art, storytelling, sports, and awareness building on various topics. For more information, refer to the annexure.

Skilling and educational outcomes are the driving force for WorldClass (under the aegis of which Impact Day is organised). WorldClass seeks to prepare 50 million people for the future of work, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Volunteering is an integral implementation pathway for WorldClass, alongside pro bono projects and grants.

“In alignment with our global WorldClass commitment, our corporate citizenship efforts in India harness the collective potential of our intellect and energy to empower the community. To help our communities thrive in a future that is technology driven, we remain invested in skill development, education, and enabling greater access to opportunities,” said Bruce Stewart, Tax Principal, Deloitte LLP.

According to Nathan, “Learning with Impact Day goes both ways, because as they lead projects, or implement them on the ground, volunteers learn to look outside their comfort zone and imbibe valuable life skills. We also hope to inspire them to take up volunteering on a more sustained basis.”