Dr. Vimi Ramasamy, Founder and CEO of STRAVIK, makes a much-anticipated return to discuss a core business topic – Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) – and why ESG is riddled with confusion and apprehension among businesses.
Since her first appearance on this podcast in 2020, Vimi has traversed the exciting yet challenging terrain of entrepreneurship. Back then, she was deeply engaged in building her business and helping other organisations with starting up their operations in Malaysia.
Over the years, Vimi’s ventures have diversified to include consulting work with a current emphasis on ESG which marks a significant and impactful shift.
Whether sparked by a specific event, a growing industry need, or a personal passion for environmental and social responsibility, Vimi’s commitment to ESG reflects her forward-thinking approach to business.
Vimi candidly discusses the challenges that most business owners have when integrating ESG into their operations. She shares how most business owners have no idea where to begin.
Debunking ESG Myths
A key part of the interview is devoted to debunking common ESG myths, such as the notion that ESG is costly to implement and that it is only for multinational companies. Vimi clarifies what ESG entails and its effects on various business aspects, including marketing and supply chain. She emphasizes that ESG can be implementable for every business.
Vimi provides insights and research data that encourage embracing sustainable practices and how businesses can adopt simple ESG actions to reduce their environmental footprint and enhance social responsibility while attaining higher profits.
Her late father has always been her lifelong inspiration. “I am inspired by anyone who genuinely seeks to make a difference and takes decisive action to bring about change,” she shares. Vimi also mentions her favorite quote from Madeleine Albright: “There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women.”
Vimi’s personal mantra, “Spread a smile—it costs you nothing but can change someone’s life,” encapsulates her approach to both business and life.
Her favorites include books like “The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success” by Deepak Chopra, “Start-up Nation” by Dan Senor and Saul Singer, and “The Intention Experiment” by Lynn McTaggart. She enjoys sentimental hits in music and cuisines such as Indian, Chinese and Japanese. It is no surprise that reading is one of her cherished hobbies.
As a mother, Vimi takes immense pride in seeing her daughters grow into independent young women and feels equally excited about the success of those she has coached and mentored. “Their achievements reflect my dedication to prioritizing family and supporting others’ growth,” she says.
Vimi is also proud of her career journey, having accomplished every goal she set for herself.
Now, she focuses on breaking down bigger barriers, especially in the ESG field. “I am committed to embodying the values my dad taught me—integrity and dedication—by consistently demonstrating them in everything I do, especially in my professional journey.”