Village Connect
In a rapidly changing world where four generations now share the same professional space—from seasoned Baby Boomers to digital-native Gen Z—the modern workplace has become a living laboratory of ideas, mentorship, and innovation. A 2025 World Economic Forum report underscores the value of this diversity, showing how it fuels creativity, strengthens problem-solving, and keeps organizations agile amidst technological shifts.
At SM, this generational blend isn’t just acknowledged—it’s celebrated as a vital ingredient in the company’s continued success. The workforce of over 142,000 employees across the SM group is nearly evenly split between younger Gen Z employees (47%, under 30 years old) and the combined force of Gen X and Millennials (47%, ages 30–50), while Baby Boomers (6%, above 50) bring decades of wisdom and leadership to the mix.
“Our people are the strongest foundation of SM’s continued growth,” shared Elizabeth Anne ‘Lizanne’ Uychaco, Executive Vice President and Group Diversity Officer at SM Investments Corporation. “We work to create a culture where every generation feels included, respected, and empowered to contribute.”
Beyond age diversity, SM actively champions gender inclusion, with women making up 64% of its workforce and occupying 58% of senior leadership roles—a testament to the company’s belief in merit-based progress. As a signatory to the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles since 2022, SM ensures equal opportunities through robust policies, accessible facilities, and transparent monitoring to track progress.
To prepare employees for the future, the company launched the SM Sustainability School—a learning platform designed to embed a sustainability mindset and develop forward-looking skills. In 2024 alone, over 43,000 employees enrolled in 71 specialized courses covering topics from green practices to digital transformation.
Inclusivity at SM also shapes the physical environment. Across its offices and malls, employees and customers alike benefit from 814 breastfeeding rooms, 787 PWD-friendly pathways, 171 gender-neutral washrooms, and 19 non-denominational meditation rooms—spaces built to reflect the diversity of those who use them.
“At SM, inclusion isn’t a slogan—it’s something we live every day, across every business unit,” Ms. Uychaco emphasized.
By turning diversity into an everyday strength—bridging generations, supporting women, and creating spaces where all are welcome—SM not only builds a stronger workforce but also proves that an inclusive culture drives innovation, loyalty, and long-term business success.
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