DHL Express joins 2026 UOB Wonder Lab to inspire sustainable actions

DHL Express Thailand joins hands with UOB Thailand to bring together businesses and young innovators through 2026 UOB Wonder Lab, empowering the next generation to develop creative approaches to real sustainability communication challenges. 

This year’s programme attracted strong interest from across Thailand, with 171 teams comprising 688 young people applying to participate. Following a competitive selection process, 15 teams were selected to join the UOB Wonder Lab Impact Academy, where they began collaborating with leading companies to explore new ways of making sustainability more relevant and engaging for different audiences.

UOB Thailand has partnered with DHL Express, DKSH and Häfele Thailand, organisations that share a common commitment to sustainability and youth development. Each partner has presented participants with authentic communication challenges based on their sustainability priorities, encouraging teams to develop creative approaches that strengthen awareness, encourage participation and inspire more sustainable behaviours.

Ms Dhornratana Olanhankij, Country Head of Brand, Communications and Customer Advocacy, UOB Thailand, said “We believe sustainability creates lasting impact when people understand it, see how it connects to their everyday lives and choose to be part of the change. Through UOB Wonder Lab, we are bringing together businesses and the next generation to co-create fresh ideas that make sustainability more engaging and accessible. The programme reflects our commitment to nurturing future-ready talent and fostering collaboration that can inspire positive action towards a more sustainable future.”

During the Impact Academy, participants gained insights into each partner’s sustainability priorities and communication objectives, while working with business leaders and mentors to begin shaping their communication approaches through workshops on audience insights, storytelling and creative thinking.

Although operating across different industries, DHL, DKSH and Häfele Thailand share a common belief that sustainability creates greater impact when people understand it, connect with it and see how they can contribute.

Ms Bootsaraporn Kittinuntavorakul, Vice President, Commercial, DHL Express Thailand, said, “Sustainability is most impactful when people understand why it matters. We are pleased to partner with UOB Wonder Lab and look forward to seeing fresh perspectives that help make sustainability more engaging and relevant for different audiences.”

Mr Vorrapong Surachaikulwattana, Vice President, Supply Chain Management, DKSH Thailand, said, “Building a more sustainable future requires not only meaningful action, but also meaningful engagement. We are delighted to share our sustainability journey with young innovators and explore new communication approaches together.”

Mr John Clare, Managing Director, South and Southeast Asia, Häfele Thailand, said, “Creativity has an important role in making sustainability accessible and inspiring positive behavioural change. We are excited to see how young people translate fresh perspectives into ideas that connect with wider audiences.”

Following the Impact Academy, the 15 shortlisted teams will continue refining their ideas through mentoring sessions with UOB and partner organisations. Nine finalist teams will present their communication approaches at the UOB Wonder Lab Final Pitch on 3 October 2026 at UOB Plaza Bangkok.

UOB Wonder Lab reflects UOB’s long-term commitment to investing in youth capability and fostering cross-sector collaboration. By connecting businesses with the creativity and perspectives of the next generation, the programme demonstrates how innovative communication can help inspire sustainable action and create lasting positive impact for society.