It’s been a banner year for the H Connect International team, receiving multiple recognitions across various business units. Notably, we were recognized twice for creating equal opportunities for and empowering female team members. Most recently, we were named one of the 15 best places to work for women in Sri Lanka among 150 organizations.
As our team accepted this honour, we reflected on our journey here. Over the past year, we have doubled our operations and introduced new clients across different industry verticals all while maintaining a culture of camaraderie and togetherness.
Here’s what we’ve learned throughout the process.
1. A learning-oriented environment trumps a task-oriented environment
When curiosity and experimentation are encouraged, and mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth, teams are likely to be highly engaged. They can see the big picture of the task rather than the singular task alone. They solve complex problems creatively and find safety and fulfillment in the work they do.
2. It’s okay to not be okay, and it’s even more okay to admit it
Understanding that no one is okay 100% of the time is step one. Once companies normalize feelings of anxiety, sadness, or simply feeling overwhelmed by a conversation or situation, teams are more likely to discuss their feelings openly. This way we can solve problems from a place of deep understanding and avoid resentment and conflict. The space we work in then becomes truly safe.
3. Shaking off Sri Lankan stereotypes
It’s important to create a clear distinction between socio-cultural expectations and corporate norms. In Sri Lanka, traditional views often value women as supporters of men, expecting them to be passive, soft-spoken, and modest. However, in professional settings, these expectations don’t always apply, and women should feel encouraged to express themselves freely, confidently, and assertively irrespective of these traditional norms. This will help them understand that their potential is in no way inferior to men’s.
4. Emphasis on the concept of ‘Self’.
To truly succeed, it’s essential to build a foundation rooted in self-awareness, self-validation, self-compassion, self-confidence, and self-sufficiency. Here’s why each of these qualities matter:
- Self-awareness is understanding your own emotions, strengths, and weaknesses. It helps navigate situations effectively, adapt to changes, and align choices to achieve your goals.
- Self-validation means recognizing and respecting your own feelings and experiences without needing outside approval. It builds resilience, as you become less reliant on others’ opinions and more rooted in your own sense of worth.
- Self-compassion is treating yourself with kindness, especially in times of failure or struggle. It reduces self-criticism, strengthens emotional well-being, and allows you to approach challenges with a balanced mindset.
- Self-confidence is having trust in your abilities and judgment. This belief in yourself boosts motivation, helps you take on new opportunities, and builds credibility with others.
- Self-sufficiency is about finding peace and contentment within yourself. When you’re truly happy alone, no external storm can shake your inner calm. This strength helps you face challenges with resilience and stay grounded.
Each quality reinforces the other, empowering you to face challenges, make decisions, and grow with a strong, resilient mindset.
And as we look back on this incredible journey, we recognize that true growth isn’t just about our accolades or expansion—it’s about the deep connections and empowering culture we’re building every day. The achievements of the past year are a testament to what we can accomplish when we’re committed to each other’s well-being, both personally and professionally.
Moving forward, we’re inspired to keep evolving, learning, and challenging what’s possible, ensuring that H Connect International remains a place where everyone can succeed, no matter where they are in their journey. Here’s to the future—one we’ll continue building together, stronger and more resilient than ever.
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