A new international campaign celebrating older workers and promoting age-inclusive employment has been launched by 55/Redefined, the global platform for over-50s.
International Age Pioneers Week (IAPW) will run from 17–21 November 2025, expanding the success of the UK’s National Older Workers Week into a global initiative. The event will spotlight the value of professionals aged 50 and over and the employers creating more inclusive workplaces.
Lyndsey Simpson, founder and CEO of 55/Redefined, said the week aimed to change perceptions of ageing at work. “With half the workforce soon to be aged 50-plus, it’s time we stopped seeing age as a barrier and started recognising it as a strategic advantage,” she said. “Ignoring this talent pool is not an option. Businesses without an age strategy don’t have a growth strategy.”
AGEING POPULATION: UNTAPPED OPPORTUNITY
The programme includes the launch of Age Intelligence in Action, a global report co-produced with the Global Coalition on Aging (GCOA), showcasing best practices from leading employers. Partners such as AMS, Axa UK, Canada Life UK, Diageo, John Lewis and others will host events and campaigns throughout the week.
Michael Hodin, CEO of GCOA, described the world’s ageing population as an untapped opportunity. “The Silver Economy is already worth US$22 trillion and growing,” he said. “Companies that embrace this demographic shift will gain a major advantage in the war for talent.”
Research from 55/Redefined suggests 93% of over-50s feel unsupported by employers. However, 92% would stay in work longer if given retraining opportunities. During the week, 55/Redefined will also release a new study, Purpose, Not Pay, surveying more than 3,500 people aged 50–70 about work, retirement and reskilling. “This is about thriving at every stage of life,” Simpson concluded. “When we build workplaces that celebrate age and experience, everyone benefits.”
Click here for more information on International Age Pioneers Week (IAPW).
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