Media OutReach
Family Support Now Make-or-Break for Overseas Postings, New Study Reveals
Now in its third iteration (previously published in 2017 and 2020), the 2025 World of Work Report draws on survey responses from international assignees and HR decision-makers across multiple markets. The findings show that the pressures placed on family life during an international assignment are now among the leading reasons postings end early. Although most employers provide core practical support – from healthcare access to visa sponsorship and relocation – families often lack structured help in managing the personal and emotional adjustment.
Only 38% of families are entitled to universal support. Twenty eight percent receive it on a case-by-case basis and 24% are eligible only after a minimum tenure with the business. Yet even when support is available, such as extended leave to see loved ones or travel costs to get home, just 40% of assignees are aware of it. This highlights a communication gap between employers and employees.
Although few assignees receive consistent family support, its importance is clear. Those who relocate with their partners or children report significantly better mind health outcomes, with 67% saying they feel mentally well, compared with 42% of those living apart from their families and 48% of solo movers. And while many families do settle in well (60% report a manageable adjustment), notable challenges remain: 35% say their partner has struggled to find employment, 31% report strain on family life, and 28% say their partner or family would prefer to return home.
For assignees whose families remain in their home country, 93% use technology to stay connected, and 80% feel supported by their employer in maintaining contact. Yet distance still takes a toll: 35% report their wellbeing has been negatively impacted, 46% say separation has strained relationships, and 27% report worsened physical health.
Their ability to change this situation is limited, with only 29% of employers offering assignees the flexibility to adapt their benefits packages to cover their partner or family.
“International placements are about people – not just roles, budgets or business strategy,” said Karim Idilby, Chief Growth Officer, AXA Health International, which operates the AXA Global Healthcare brand.
“When families are supported to settle, stay connected and feel well, assignees thrive. When they aren’t, even the best-designed mobility programmes can falter. Our research highlights a clear opportunity for employers to take a more holistic, family-first approach to supporting the full assignment journey.”
Repatriation support missing
The research also highlighted other critical stages of the assignment journey, including repatriation, where many assignees face challenges with mind health, cultural readjustment, and ongoing support.
Only 2 in 5 assignees are offered psychological support post-assignment, despite 9 in 10 reporting a difficult period with their mind health challenge during their time abroad.
And although over half receive a promotion or guaranteed role on return, personal wellbeing and cultural readjustment often lag behind.
“Having lived and worked in six countries, I know first-hand that coming home can be the hardest part,” said Virginie Faucon, Chief Marketing Officer, AXA Health International.
“On my own return to France, the adjustment was unexpectedly complex – the psychological shift, the feeling of being out of sync with your own culture, and the toll on family unity can be profound. Yet only 3 in 5 HR decision-makers provide reverse culture shock training for assignees, showing how often this stage is overlooked. Repatriation is not an ‘end’ to the journey. It needs to be actively supported.”
The rising cost of global placements
The report suggests that the success criteria for assignments are shifting. Salary and logistical support remain essential, but wellbeing, cultural integration, and family inclusion now form the core of a sustainable global mobility strategy.
“Successful international placements build resilient, global organisations,” added Idilby. “But that success depends on people’s lives, families, and wellbeing being supported.
“This means making family support a core pillar of global mobility policy, reviewing benefits more frequently to reflect real-time needs, and recognising repatriation as a stage that requires just as much support as the move itself. Above all, prioritising mind health can help employees and their families adjust, settle, and ultimately thrive.”
ABOUT THE REPORT
AXA Global Healthcare’s 2025 World of Work Report is based on a survey conducted in June 2025 by Savanta, examining the experiences of international assignees and HR decision-makers across multiple global markets.
A total of 689 HR decision-makers and 641 non-native assignees participated. The geographic breakdown was as follows:
HR decision-makers: US 110, UK 109, France 53, Germany 54, UAE 55, Kenya 52, Hong Kong 50, Singapore 50, Thailand 53, China 103.
Non-native assignees: US 106, UK 114, France 51, Germany 52, UAE 59, Kenya 66, Hong Kong 49, Singapore 52, Thailand 51, China 41.
The report highlights trends in international assignment success, family support, mental health, and the repatriation experience, providing insights for organisations seeking to optimise their global mobility programmes.
The full report is available to read here: https://www.axaglobalhealthcare.com/en/about-us/reports/world-of-work-reports/
Hashtag: #AXA
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
AXA Global Healthcare
ABOUT AXA HEALTH INTERNATIONAL AND AXA GLOBAL HEALTHCARE
AXA Health International is part of the wider AXA Group and specialises in international health and wellbeing solutions.
AXA Global Healthcare operates as one of the commercial entities within AXA Health International, providing premium international health insurance to individuals and businesses worldwide and has been protecting the healthcare needs of globally mobile citizens for more than 60 years. Offering cross-border health insurance to businesses and private individuals, we support customers living in more than 200 countries. Our constantly evolving propositions build upon decades of experience in global healthcare and the local knowledge and capabilities of AXA’s healthcare businesses across the world. We offer customers care and support though a global virtual doctor service, second medical opinion and personal case management services as well as evacuation and repatriation assistance. And to make sure customers get speedy access to medical treatment wherever they are in the world, they have access to AXA’s global medical network of 2.1 million healthcare providers.
AXA Global Healthcare is committed to driving a diverse workforce and promoting gender equality. We are part of the AXA Group – a global insurance company with more than 93 million clients worldwide.
To find out more visit axaglobalhealthcare.com
Gandakan Kebaikan transforms nationwide kindness into real homes, delivering meaningful and lasting impact.
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 April 2026 – Tropicana Twister’s ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ campaign has reached a defining milestone with the completion and handover of homes to families in need, marking a tangible outcome of a nationwide movement built on everyday acts of kindness.
Developed in partnership with EPIC Homes, the initiative contributes towards the building of up to 100 homes for underserved communities, including Orang Asli families across Malaysia. What began during Ramadan as a simple call to do good has since translated into safe, liveable spaces that provide families with protection, stability and a chance to move forward.
“Gandakan Kebaikan reflects our belief that meaningful change happens when communities come together with a shared purpose,” said Aditya Sheoran, PepsiCo Franchise Senior Director. “Through this initiative, we’re building homes and helping to create stronger foundations for families to thrive, today and for the future.”
Jennifer Lee, Head of Marketing, PepsiCo Malaysia Beverages, shared, “This is where intention becomes impact. Tropicana Twister’s Gandakan Kebaikan campaign started as individual acts of kindness, and now, the result is visible, that Malaysians are and will continue to show up for one another.”
“Families living in unsafe homes live in constant worry, especially during heavy rain. An EPIC Home gives them a place where they can feel secure. It goes beyond being just a shelter – a safe home gives peace of mind, stability, and the hope for a better future.” said Nadhira Halim, (Asst. Manager, Fundraising & Partnership, EPIC Homes).
More than just physical structures, these homes create a sense of security and dignity, while giving families a stable environment to rebuild their lives. Built with the support of volunteers and local communities, each home reflects a collective effort that goes far beyond a single campaign.
While ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ was rooted in the spirit of Ramadan, its impact continues to extend far beyond the festive season. By focusing on long-term community needs, Tropicana Twister reinforces its commitment to creating meaningful and lasting change.
“As a brand, we believe in the power of collective goodness. This project is about turning that belief into action and bringing people together to create lasting impact,” added Jennifer. “Just like every beam and plank forms a home, each of you is a vital piece in building this journey.”
With the completion of these homes, ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ continues to build on its mission of supporting underserved communities across Malaysia, proving that collective goodwill can create an impact that lasts beyond a moment.
For more information, visit Tropicana Twister’s Facebook page @MYTropicana and watch here on YouTube to see the impact unfold.
Hashtag: #TropicanaTwister
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About PepsiCo
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $86 billion in net revenue in 2022, driven by a complimentary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Tropicana, Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.
Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the centre of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change cafor the planet and people. For more information, visit 
www.pepsico.com, and follow on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCo.
From Orientation to a Continuous Student Journey
Orientation programmes have traditionally focused on introducing students to campus life. Today, they are increasingly seen as the starting point of a longer engagement model. Institutions such as the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), onboarding is complemented by a structured ecosystem of activities that extends throughout the academic lifecycle. These include Student‑led Student Club Recruitment drives,, leadership camps, and peer-led initiatives that encourage early interaction and sustained participation over time.
Building Bonds Through Shared Experiences
Rather than relying solely on informal social interaction, universities or institutions are creating structured environments where students collaborate regularly. SIM, for instance, offers more than 70 student clubs spanning arts, sports, and academic interests, alongside activities such as hackathons, overseas community projects, and student-led events. Such platforms allow students to work together on common goals, reflecting real-world team dynamics and reinforcing skills such as communication and collaboration.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
The concept of student life is also expanding beyond academic settings. Dedicated platforms such as SIM’s Student Life initiatives are designed to provide a more holistic campus experience, reinforcing the idea that learning extends beyond formal instruction. At the same time, academic support systems such as the Student Learning Centre provide structured assistance through workshops, consultations, and learning resources, supporting both individual and group learning processes.
A Diverse and Global Learning Environment
With partnerships across universities in the United Kingdom, Australia, Europe, and the United States, institutions like SIM bring together students from varied cultural and academic backgrounds. This diversity creates opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration, which is increasingly relevant in a globalised workforce.
Connecting Student Experience to Career Outcomes
The emphasis on collaboration and engagement is also closely linked to employability. SIM’s broader model integrates academic programmes with industry partnerships, internships, and career services aimed at preparing students for a rapidly changing work environment. This reflects a wider trend in higher education, where experience is being designed not only around academic achievement, but also around the development of professional networks and workplace skills.
Redefining the University Experience
As learning models continue to evolve, universities or institutions are placing greater emphasis on how student interactions are structured over time. From orientation activities to co-curricular engagement and career preparation, the journey from enrolment to graduation is increasingly being shaped as a continuous pathway for collaboration, experience-building, and network development.
Reference:
- Project 1095 – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg/
- Singapore Institute of Management – https://www.sim.edu.sg
- SIM Global Education Overview – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/overview
Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About SIM Global Education
SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.
SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.
For more information on SIM Global Education, visit www.sim.edu.sg.
Media OutReach
Where Ancient Ritual Meets Runway: Sanyuesan Festival Gets Modern Makeover in Wuzhishan
Alex, a visitor ventured to China’s southernmost province primarily for its renowned black tea. What he did not anticipate was taking a front-row seat at a breathtaking fashion show staged on water.
“This unique stage has allowed me to capture some wonderful images,” said Alex, who happened to be in Wuzhishan during the Sanyuesan Festival. “I originally came here simply as a fan of Wuzhishan’s black tea, but now I find myself deeply fascinated by the culture of Wuzhishan as well.”
The “unique stage” he refers to is the immersive water-based performance space created for the 2026 Sanyuesan Festival, featuring the “Miss Li · Hainan Sanyuesan Water Village Show.” This innovative platform, with water as its runway and the rainforest as its backdrop, presents the Sanyuesan, a traditional celebration of the Li and Miao ethnic groups with thousands of years of history, through a contemporary lens, appealing to both local and international audiences.
The Sanyuesan Festival is memorable not only for its visual appeal but also for its interactive nature. In 2025, the event in Wuzhishan received 175,000 visitors and generated 110 million yuan (approximately 15.1 million US dollars) in consumption. This year, Wuzhishan introduced five premium tourist routes, converting ecological resources — including millennium-old tree fern groves, tropical rainforest tea gardens, and Yahu Terraces — into tourism products.
“Previously, folk culture felt distant,” said Shan Lijun, a tourist from northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. “But now, in Wuzhishan, I can sip tea, watch a village show, and dance with the locals— it all feels very ‘cool.'”
Additionally, the festival is witnessing the evolution of local intangible cultural heritage industries. A Li brocade fashion and cultural creative design competition showcased innovative garments and creative works, merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion. This heritage item, once listed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding, has now, through the concerted efforts of many, been transferred to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and is reaching broader markets through collaborations with international designers.
Hashtag: #Sanyuesan
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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