GeN+1 is excited to announce Kao Data, the specialist developer and operator of data centres engineered for AI and advanced computing, as its new Impact Sponsor, marking a significant milestone in its mission to drive innovation, diversity, and excellence in the data centre sector. 

Since its inception a decade ago, Kao Data, has always placed an importance on being an ethical and forward-thinking business. Known for its visionary approach and bold action on ESG, Kao Data has continuously demonstrated its dedication to shaping the future of the industry through cutting-edge technologies, state-of-the-art facilities, and pioneering sustainability initiatives. 

With a strong commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce, a cornerstone of their ambitious ESG agenda, Kao Data is proactively taking steps to make a lasting impact on the next generation of professionals by building awareness of the data centre industry. 

GeN+1’s aim is to introduce more young people to the sector to address the current skills gap shortage by creating events where people can build and grow their current network. As an Impact Sponsor, Kao Data will play a crucial role in advancing GeN+1’s initiatives, which include educational programs, career development, and community engagement. Kao Data’s proactive approach aligns seamlessly with GeN+1’s goals to inspire and empower the future workforce in the data centre industry.

Kao Data’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is exemplified by Kalay Moodley, Chief People Officer, in her continued support in encouraging diversity in the sector.  Furthermore, Kalay is passionate about supporting individuals from South Asian backgrounds and underprivileged communities, perfectly aligning with GeN+1’s goal to bring more diversity and inclusion to the data centre, digital infrastructure, and construction industries.

Kalay Moodley, commented on the partnership: “We are incredibly proud to be the first Impact Sponsor of GeN+1. At Kao Data, we believe it is our responsibility to not only support the next generation of data centre professionals, but to broaden the appeal of our industry. Supporting initiatives like this is vital to foster innovation, diversity, and collaboration, and together, we can empower young professionals, while building a more inclusive and dynamic future for the industry.”

Kao Data is already making significant strides in various areas of social responsibility and professional development for the younger generation. This includes UTC Heathrow’s award-winning Digital Futures Programme, which it is has been proactively been involved in for more than two years.

The  Digital Futures Programme helps to support and nurture budding engineers, aged 14-18, by offering dedicated training pathways and an education curriculum specifically created for the data centre industry. 

Additionally, in 2022, Kao Data launched the Kao Academy – an industry-first science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) initiative, designed to engage and educate primary and early secondary school-aged children about the purpose and role of a data centre.

Created in collaboration with Cambridge Science Centre, an independent, educational charity, the Kao Academy helps teach children aged 7-11 about how data centres are designed, engineered and constructed, and explains both their importance and relevance to our everyday lives. 

With many initiatives already supporting a new generation, becoming Gen+1’s first Impact Sponsor was a natural fit for  Kao Data and its mission to both  widen the appeal of the industry, and educate a wider audience about the opportunities that exist within this fast growing and critical sector.