Let us introduce you to Pat Dwyer, one of AVPN’s first Gender Equality Ambassadors. Known for her leadership in sustainability and social impact, Pat brings a wealth of experience to her new role. As the founder of The Purpose Business (TPB), she has spent years helping businesses align with ethical and inclusive practices. Beyond her corporate roles, Pat empowers minority groups and communities, including through her work with Enrich, which supports the financial independence of migrant domestic workers (MDWs).
A Voice for Migrant Domestic Workers
For Pat, the story of migrant domestic workers is both personal and universal. In Hong Kong, there are over 356,000 MDWs, with a majority coming from the Philippines, her home country. These women are the backbone of countless households, managing childcare, elderly care, and household operations. Their contributions enable families to thrive and support the city’s economy, yet their work often goes unrecognised and undervalued.
Domestic care is a lifeline for many families. “If domestic care were an industry measured by traditional, business-as-usual metrics such as GDP, it would be bigger than, if not on par with, sectors such as the automotives.” Pat shares.
Empowerment Through Financial Literacy
Pat’s advocacy for MDWs is exemplified through her work with Enrich, a Hong Kong-based charity which offers financial literacy workshops to help MDWs save, budget and plan for the future. According to the 2024 Enrich HK Survey, 77% of MDWs in Hong Kong are now actively saving, and 81% report improved mental well-being—a testament to the transformative power of financial education.
Reflecting on the importance of this work, Pat shares: “I strongly believe that education around finance and empowerment marks just the start of the independence that migrant domestic workers need—and have long deserved.
Why This Cause Matters
The importance of empowering MDWs extends beyond individual households. By 2047, Hong Kong alone will require 600,000 MDWs to address the growing demand for elderly care. Across Asia, similar trends are emerging, as ageing populations and urbanisation increase reliance on domestic workers.
Despite their vital role, MDWs often face challenges such as recruitment debts, financial insecurity and limited access to resources. For Pat, addressing these barriers is not just about recognising their contributions; it’s about creating systems that allow them to thrive economically and socially.
A Leader with Purpose
Pat’s work with MDWs is part of her broader commitment to purpose-driven leadership. As the founder of TPB, she has transformed businesses by embedding sustainability into their core strategies. Her career also includes trailblazing roles in corporate sustainability for Ayala Land and Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts.
Now, as an AVPN Gender Equality Ambassador, Pat is amplifying the voices of women across the region. She is dedicated to ensuring that women, especially those from vulnerable communities, have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
