An inspiring evening in Berlin – ESG as a chance

Dec. 2024

What a wonderful evening! In the heart of Berlin at the Federal Association of Small and Medium Businesses headquarters, we were delighted to welcome many guests to explore “Talent Boost through ESG.” The event offered a dynamic exchange on the opportunities ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) brings to companies, illustrating how sustainable practices can be a genuine competitive advantage. 

A special thanks to our outstanding speakers, including Prof. Dr. Martin Wortmann, General Secretary of the BVMW Educational Alliance, and Frank Achilles, Employment Law Expert at Eversheds Sutherland. They provided valuable insights into evolving practices and concrete actions companies can take to fully harness the potential of ESG. Of particular interest was the focus on the “S” in ESG: social responsibility not only strengthens public reputation but is also crucial for attracting and retaining talent. Studies show that 79% of Generation Z prefer employers who actively engage in sustainability and social responsibility. 
ESG-Event
ESG-Event

A Musical Programme with Lasting Impact

Young musicians from the MiSST programme welcomed guest with an opening performance. Throughout the evening, the students further captivated guests with their performances, including Adoration by Florence Price and selected pieces from The Phantom of the Opera.  

 

 

An Evening of Shared Vision and Personal Stories

In his welcoming speech, Wolfgang Egger talked about the importance of investing in young people and creating opportunities that allow them to thrive — academically, personally and socially. Ambassador Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber delivered a passionate speech on the importance of protecting arts education in the UK, particularly at a time when music and creative subjects continue to face significant cuts within the school system. He spoke movingly about the responsibility to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has access to creativity, culture and music education.

Chairwoman of the Board Astrid Gabler, together with Board Member James Muir, reflected on their recent visit to one of the programme’s partner schools. James shared how deeply a passionate music teacher had influenced him during his own school years and how this experience continues to shape his belief in the importance of the support in education infrastructure. 

Rachel Landon, CEO MiSST, brought the programme vividly to life through inspiring footage and powerful stories from participating students, offering guests a meaningful glimpse into the daily impact of the initiative.

One of the most moving moments of the evening came from Rain Spiegel-Johnson, a former participant of the programme, who shared her personal journey. She spoke openly about how access to music education has shaped her confidence, supported her personal development, and positively influenced her life path. 

 

PATRIZIA Music Programme 

With the PATRIZIA Music Programme, the PATRIZIA Foundation continues its commitment to educational support and equal opportunities across Europe. The programme was established to provide children and young people from disadvantaged communities in the United Kingdom with access to high-quality music education and to open new pathways for their personal and academic development. In partnership with MiSST, the programme supports schools in Morecambe and Manchester by providing classical musical instruments, professional music tuition and regular performance opportunities. Over the course of three years, the PATRIZIA Foundation is funding 300 instruments, creating long-term access to cultural education and helping young people build brighter futures through the transformative power of music.