Combatting Gender and Racial Bias in Organisation: Professor Soojin Oh’s Journey of Advocating Diversity and Inclusion
Born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, Professor Soojin Oh aspires to use his knowledge to help combat gender and racial bias for underrepresented leaders. Impressed by the unique blend of cultures and identities within Hong Kong, Prof. Oh decided to embark on his journey to HKU Business School as an Assistant Professor in Management and Strategy.
Prof. Oh’s academic journey encompasses a PhD from Pennsylvania State University, as well as both an MA and BA from Seoul National University. His research is primarily focused on the domains of diversity and inclusion within organisations, seeking to unravel and challenge the complex dynamics at play.
Reflecting on his personal growth throughout his studies, Prof. Oh opens up, “When I first delved into the study of gender bias, I was surprised by my own biases.” This realisation has driven his commitment to unearthing and addressing the deep-rooted barriers entrenched within our minds. Prof. Oh firmly emphasizes that achieving diversity and inclusion is not an individual endeavor, stating, “Diversity and inclusion is not about pitting one group against another. It is a collective effort to combat discriminatory systems that hinder the progress of competent and capable individuals.”
Balancing between life and academia can be challenging. Prof. Oh encourages students to stay optimistic and live the most out of campus life even during difficult times. “Take the time in university to navigate what you genuinely care about and are interested in. Embrace the opportunities to grow and discover your true passions.”
With his unwavering dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion, Prof. Oh stands as a beacon of inspiration, challenging societal norms and fostering a respectful and inclusive learning environment to nurture students to be better decision-makers in the future.