AIESEC Hong Kong
Annual Report 2010-2011
Content 1 2
MCP Foreword
5
What is AIESEC
9
Performance
Endorsement
11
Local Committee Stories
19
Develop Leaders Day
2 1
ECOlity
23
International Conference
25
Asia Pacific Exchange & Leadership Development Seminar
28
Outgoing Exchange Story
30
Interns’ Stories
35
AIESEC Alumni Hong Kong
MCP Foreword E
xperience matters. Creating an experience matters even more. Unlike a product of factory work, an experience is fundamentally an artwork of human interactions. In the past some 60 years, human interactions have made AIESEC a breeding ground of transformations. From impact from different cultural values to the showcase of unlimited amazements in different combinations of teamwork, members of AIESEC have come to believe in the relevance of leadership in driving social progress tomorrow. Leadership is a belief that teamwork matters. This demands self-knowledge of individuals, appreciation of others, and a motivation driven by the pursuit of common wellbeing and happiness. This is easier said than done. AIESEC is here to attract a global network of individuals whose behaviors will challenge every individual in all these dimensions. Everyone has something to offer and everyone has something to learn. We are indeed very glad that we are never alone on this important journey. Supporters from all sectors have long come to offer AIESEC members all these experiences that matter. Because of the quality of members that we attract and the challenges members face in AIESEC, our members are able to create mutually beneficial relationships with our supporters as well. Every generation of AIESEC members will simply pay this forward, supporting the growth of even younger generations when they become the ones who yield their harvests from committing to developing themselves. We believe in people and we are here to fulfill people’s potential. Victor Wong President AIESEC in Hong Kong Session 2010-11
1
Endorsement Ms Winnie Ng
Dr. Kitty Poon
I
congratulate AIESEC Hong Kong on its good work and achievements in the past year.
Established in 1967, AIESEC Hong Kong has provided an invaluable international platform for local young leaders to develop their potential for the betterment of our society. Over the past four decades, these brilliant brains have become leading figures across different sectors and fields, both in Hong Kong and overseas. In this competitive era, it is of utmost importance for young people of today to develop a stronger sense of international and social affairs alongside their professional and intellectual pursuits. In this regard, AIESEC can definitely play an active role in helping young people broaden their horizons and develop leadership skills, which are essential components of Hong Kong’s long term competitiveness. There is quite obviously synergy between AIESEC Hong Kong and the Bauhinia Foundation Research Centre, an independent policy think tank set up in 2006 to focus on Hong Kong’s competitiveness and socioeconomic well-being.
T
oday’s Hong Kong, as with the other parts of the world, is faced with many challenges. Climate change, waste management, and air pollution are but a few of the global challenges which invariably call for innovative and sustainable solutions. We also need concerted actions of the Government and the community to tackle the problems. Young people, being the leaders of tomorrow, should take the lead to make a difference of our environment. I am sure AIESEC has a significant role to play in meeting the environmental challenges. I am sure AISEC will continue to engage young leaders and making successful contributions to our community in 2011/12.
Dr Kitty Poon Under Secretary for the Environment The Government of the HKSAR
Once again, my congratulations on yet another fruitful year of AIESEC Hong Kong and I look forward to seeing more exciting activities in the year ahead.
Ms Winnie Ng Director, Bauhinia Foundation Research Centre
2
Endorsement Mr Martin Crawford
Mr Tony Shale
congratulate the various local and national committees of AIESEC in Hong Kong for the progress they have made in the past year furthering the goals of this incredible organisation. It always amazes me that an organisation can change leadership every year, filled by mostly part-time executives with competing priorities, and yet remain vibrant, achieve growth and stay true to its strategies and aspirations. We in the private sector can learn a great deal from the example set by these dedicated AIESEC’ers. Congratulations on a great year and thank you for welcoming my small contribution along the way.
s the world’s leading publisher of financial commentary and opinions, Euromoney Institutional Investor has repeatedly found it challenging to source high quality, talented journalists from the Hong Kong university system. AIESEC has been an ideal partner to help us effectively and efficiently reach a global pool of talented media graduates. The AIESEC programme has been extremely cost and time effective in helping us carry out a targeted and specific global graduate trainee search. As a medium size company in Hong Kong this competency this has been particularly valuable to us.
I
Mr Martin Crawford Chief Executive Officer, OV Group
Dr. Edwin Lee
A
Mr Tony Shale Chief Executive Officer Euromoney Institutional Investor plc
I
n today’s increasing competitive environment, having a global mindset, but local adaption is very important any organization’s success. AIESEC provides the tools for its members to succeed in that regard.
It is my honor to serve on the board of advisors of AIESEC. I admire very much the energy and passion brought together by the students of different universities. Through my involvement with AIESEC over the years, the vision, hard work and people skills make me see not only today’s leaders, but also many future CEOs and Presidents of leading global corporations. I take this opportunity to congratulate the achievements of AIESEC in 2010-2011. With its strong foundation and network established in over 60 years, I wish AIESEC every success in the years to come.
Dr. Edwin Lee Founder and CEO Hong Kong Business Intermediary
3
Hey AIESEC !
What is AIESEC I
nitiated in 1948, AIESEC has been developing the world’s youth for over 60 years. By giving our members a set of tools and intense experiences to personally and professionally grow, we are able to see immense changes in their in-ward thinking, as well as their day-today outlook.
I
n a world of mass production and superficial results, AIESEC differentiates it-self by focusing on the qualitative growth of each and every member. Even though personal development can never be measured, AIESEC Hong Kong solely values the excellence of its program. We wholeheartedly believe that the time and effort put into enhancing our organization is always well spent.
Utilizing their acquired skills and knowledge from their time in AIESEC, our organization has enjoyed proven results from our alumni’s impact around the world. Scattered across private sectors, non-profit organizations, and governmental institutions, past AIESEC members continue to make a difference in their communities.
While some may ask why we don’t generate ten times more AIESEC members, we respond with, “Having one great employee, is worth more than ten good employees.”
Societal Impact
G
lobally, our former AIESEC members have successfully tackled the world’s problems, from business solutions in international financial hubs, to negotiating peace treaty meetings in the most re-mote places on Earth.
For Youth, By Youth
Y 5
Quality, not Quantity
outh developing youth: A beautiful and progressive concept. This new-age organizational structure is an embodiment of the cohesive world that’s necessary for tomorrow’s challenges. Only when we confront difficulties together, will we be able to solve humanity’s disparities.
People Oriented Organization
T
Strong, Smart, Savvy, Fast
o make it clear, members and employees of AIESEC, are the same people. AIESEC is a concept that adds value to everyone it interacts with, whether it be a university student, a strategic partner, or a corporate executive.
T
How we make sure that AIESEC affects its stakeholders in a comprehensive and in-depth way, is by the values and well-defined processes AIESEC has developed over the past 60 years.
We nurture these promising individuals by providing skills and opportunities that normally, would only be learned 10 years down the line in their careers.
he youth that we acquire in AIESEC are the world’s next leaders. This is why from the very beginning, we aim to at-tract high potential and curious individuals who have already showcased ambition in their future direction.
AIESEC is basically a fast-track development tool for those who aim high and would like to achieve societal impact at their earliest stages in life.
AIESEC uses a global competency model and a standardized 360* feed-backing tool to facilitate our members development through a clear and systematic method.
Global Juxtaposition of Ideas
W
ith clear communication channels and the collaborative support of our global network, AIESEC is allowed the ability to construct one great idea, on top of an-other great idea. This practice gives our members an intercultural understanding of the world’s varying viewpoints that cannot be substituted. As a massive thinktank, our ideas have gone on to solve problems on the world’s largest stages, as well as the poorest of homes.
6
Board of Advisory
The Board of Honours provide their advice on long-term strategic directions of youth development in Hong Kong.
Members Mr. Edwin Lee Founder and CEO Hong Kong Business Intermediary
Members Mr. Joseph Pang, JP Senior Advisor Bank of East Asia
Mr. Steven Yang Director, Staffing of Asia Pacific The Nielsen Company
Mr. Matthew Cheung, GBS, JP Secretary for Labour & Welfare Bureau HKSAR Government
Mr. Damon Hickey Director of Operations PriceWaterhouseCoopers
Mr. Simon Galpin Director-General InvestHK
Mr. Martin Crawford Chief Executive Officer Offshore Incorporation Limited
Mr. Benard Chang, GBS, JP Chairperson Hong Kong Council of Social Service
Mr. Paris Shepherd Director of Asia Pacific Euromoney Conferences
Mr. George Lung Senior District Director Manulife
Mrs. Alice Liu 2003 National Past President Junior Chamber International
Mr. Eric Li, GBS, JP Li, Tang, Chen & Co. Certified Public Accountants
Mr. Gene Tang 2010 Immediate Past President Junior Chamber International
7
Board of Honours
The Board of Advisors are industry experts, who provide in-depth insights and perspectives to enable AIESEC Hong Kong to grow in its operations and impact.
Mr. Timmy Lee 2011 Current President Junior Chamber International
Want to work in a team of smart and ambitious people? You could fit right in. If you’re looking for a career that’ll continue to stretch you long after university, UBS is a great place to start. Whatever you‘re studying now, from your first day at UBS you’ll continue to learn from the very best in their field. And you‘ll be realising your potential as part of a great team that believes in succeeding together. As well as our Graduate Program, we offer internships to students in all stages of their academic career – so visit ubs.com/graduates to explore a world of opportunities and be part of our success.
Performance
AIESEC’s performance is broken down into several parts: 1. Incoming Exchange number. This is the number of international AIESEC members working in AIESEC Hong Kong’s partner as an intern. 2. Outgoing Exchange number. This is the number of Hong Kong members going out of the country to participate in the AIESEC Exchange programme. 3. Leadership and Exchange delivery. This is the measure of how many leaders with international exchange experience were developed in the entity. Incoming Exchange Total number of AIESEC Interns in Hong Kong = 65 Internship Category Total number of Interns Management Traineeship
55
Technical Traineeship
3
Educational Traineeship
7
National Exchange Partner
Total number of Interns
UBS AG
22
Walmart Asia
6
Enhanced Datasystems Limited
1
Generali Asia
1
Pfizer Corporation Hong Kong Limited
1
Euromoney Institutional Investor Plc.
1
Electrolux
1
PricewaterhouseCoopers
1
9
1
Mainland of China
9
Cote D-ivorie
1
Egypt
1
Ghana
1
Greece
1
Hungary
4
India
28
Indonesia
1
Republic of Korea
3
Malaysia
21
New Zealand
1
Nigeria
8
Philippines
6
Poland
10
Romania
7
Russian Federation
4
Serbia
1
Sri Lanka
1
Turkey
12
Uganda
1
Vietnam
1
Management/Technical Traineeship Destina- Number of Exchange tion Participants
Outgoing Exchange Total Number of Exchange experience delivered = 156 Development Trainee Exchange DestinaNumber of Exchange tion Participants Bulgaria
Cameroon
1
India
9
Singapore
7
Mainland of China
4
United States
3
Germany
2
Malaysia
2
Poland
2
Sweden
2
Turkey
2
Hong Kong Baptist University
38
7
Belgium
1
The University of Hong Kong
68
42
Brazil
1
104
39
France
1
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Mexico
1
Lingnan University
34
8
Russian Federation
1
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
71
17
Tunisia
1
City University of Hong Kong
49
2
Thailand
1
Switzerland
1
Number of Leaders with Exchange Experience 58
Number of Leaders 177
Number of Members 437
Talent Management National Conferences
In session 2010-2011, AIESEC Hong Kong held four national conferences, in each conference providing a unique experience to the delegates. In general, national conferences served as a strategic platform, gathering the membership from all local chapters under the same roof and to synergize the organization under the same direction. This is also one of the most important platforms for AIESEC Hong Kong to empower our members’ leadership potential and capacity. Here is a summary of the national conferences held this year:
Leadership and Exchange Delivery University
Total Membership Number of Leaders
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
87
Date
Name of Conference
6-9 July 2010 29-31 October 2010 21-23 January 2011 8-10 April 2011
Kick-off Conference 2010 50 National Leadership Development 200 Seminar 2010 Winter National Conference 2011 110 Spring National Conference 2011
No. of delegates
110
39
10
11
Local Committee Story
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
O-GO! AIESEC-CU-HOT-T
A
ship experience. Also noteworthy to point out is that the number of members attending international conferences this year has more than doubled, reflecting the growth of members immersing within AIESEC’s international network and hence the accelerated nurturing of inter-cultural understanding. Last but not least we are proud to have finally overcome the LC’s TN predicament in the past few years by having re-established a TN pipeline for our next session (and hopefully the next after that too!) including the e-Mei Group, New Times Education, Inter-Cultural Education (ICE) (thanks Freddy!) and KOKOMO. Special thanks must be given for the efforts and talents of our ICX officers and leaders, in particular Ms Cherry Yuen, Ms Eileen Yip, Ms Kammy Yan, Mr Alex Lau and the support and guidance of our fervent and ever-resourceful MC-ICX Director, Ms Daphne Wong.
s the second oldest local committee estab- Local Committee Performance After all is said and done, lished in AIESEC HK, AIESEC-LC-CUHK ue to our goal of delivering an integrated one with none other than: continues to shine and remains headstrong in and customized experience for each indidelivering exchange and leadership develop- vidual member, the membership growth this No. of Members ment to the campus in its 41st year this session. year was decreased so that our organizational No. of Leaders efficiency has broken new boundaries. No. of EPs raised Our coined slogan this year, “Develop the Global YOU” says it all. Riding on the previous ses- Our EP:TN raised ratio is 1:1.6, so that we have No. of EPs realized sion’s accumulated culture of passion and tal- a sustainable balance of sending out almost the No. of TNs raised ent, this year’s focus was based on the theme same amount of members abroad as creating No. of TNs realized of networking, with the goal of developing each internships for incoming interns. No. of X+L raised member’s perspective and experience personNo. of X+L realized ally, professionally and globally through ongo- 30% of our members have obtained/obtainNo. of members attending ing exposure to our diversified stakeholders. ing exchange and leadership experience in International Conferences AIESEC and over 71% have obtained leader-
D
we raise the roof as Absolute Growth Figure 69 (8%) 49 250% 26 8.33% 15 (6.25%) 16 1600% 2 100% 21 50% 10 100% 12 50% 12
The Hong Kong University
E
stablished in 1946, AIESEC in The University of Hong Kong has been leading by example in upholding exceptional quality and business professionalism in activating global leadership. Maintaining a stable growth of membership, the diversity of backgrounds and majors of our 96 members provided our organization a variety of talents and expertise.
Local Committee Performance
I
[
[
AIESEC-LC-HKU refuses to compromise on quality and continues to strive for excellence in organizational performance and members’ mutual development. We have re-defined the meaning of success in placing emphasis on empowerment and leadership integrity. My three years in AIESEC HKU was transformational, it has equipped me with an attitude to bring positive impact in life even after my discharge. Whitney Chan, Local Committee President
13
n session of 2010 - 2011, the Executive Board endeavoured not only to achieve steady growth in our goals but also to value the process and guarantee learning opportunities for members in each position.
Measure of Success
Figures Year 10/11 No. of leaders 30 No. of X+LR realized 14 No. of Internship raised 21 No. of Internship realized 5 No. of Exchange Participant raised 36 No. of Exchange Participant real- 21 ized
Figures Year 09/10 21 10 7 5 30 25
Growth (%) 43% 40% 200% -20% (16%)
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
E
stablished in 1993, AIESEC in HKUST has been embryonic for the good and to make positive impact to all its stakeholders. Being a rather young chapter (of only 17 years of history), we have built up a solid foundation that is continuously providing opportunities to students of HKUST and enablers in the AIESEC operations. AIESEC in HKUST has its uniqueness in having great alignment in the school vision of “significant international impact and strong local commitment” due to which we have made continuous efforts to work together, with different school bodies, to achieve this vision cooperatively. In session 2010-2011, we highly focused on
member development and stakeholder management. Driving volumes of exchange experience and creating an international atmosphere have always been important elements for us to achieve our aimed focused. With our to member to have an intensive AIESEC experience, we have sent more than 50 students on AIESEC internship exchange and almost 30 leadership roles. However without a doubt, all of this would be impossible without support of our partners, school bodies and alumni. The data reflect the growth in size and generation of more leadership and exchange in this chapter. This is a new legacy yet leaves a room for improvement in terms of incoming exchange
figures. The new session 2011-201 will be lead by Ken Wong and his team in HKUST. The current team gives them our best wishes to bring AIESEC in HKUST to new heights. Let our legacy leave its impression. Over the years, AIESEC has proven to give experiences that are amazingly life changing. HKUST is commitment to bring this to a new level by not only making huge volume of these experience, but also figuratively speaking - jampacked with quality.
14
Lingnan University
T
LCP Sharing
o become a Local Committee President has definitely been one of my best experiences in university life. Being an ordinary university with no prior interest or trainings in business operations, I experienced the challenging yet enlightening on-the-job training in AIESEC being a President of a local chapter, coordinating 5 teams to achieve a common goal.
15
and collective learning has been a major learning point we’re scored from this intensive yet rewarding journey.
As an LCP, I’m also excited to witness the growth of my LC, my team, and also my members. Membership of LC-Lingnan has also been small yet highly passionate in learning and contributing. We have all gone through the journey of being a fresh member with no clear direcParticipating in various organizational decision tion, to being a promising leader with ambitions processes, scaling from LC to the whole of to contribute, then becoming more mature and AIESEC Hong Kong, I learned the significance ready to participate in a much wider scope of and impact of leaders’ decision to the rest of the society, which forms the sustainable circle of community. Hence the balance and mutual con- leaders developing future leaders. Our leadertribution between organizational performance ship journey in AIESEC may end here, our life journey has just began.
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
I
LCP sharing
choose to re-arrange my LCP sharing after the LC situation. It is because it reminds me the core context of being a leader in AIESEC. I still remember during the time I transferred from HKUST to The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, I even applied AIESEC in PolyU before I got the official admission status of PolyU. This aligns with the reason for transfer as I am looking for a platform to execute what I have learnt. I aimed to apply for Presidential position once I was in this organization as I know I can really practice all I have learnt and see the real impact. However, the leadership experience given to me is more than I have expected and far beyond the impact I can image. I have failed once
for being a President in my local committee, the failure nearly stop me from stepping further, unlike the usual situation of Hong Kong, here allows me to have many different second trials and these second trials give me a chance to know more about what is my ability and potential. This is the key to the answer of striving for both quantity and quality for me. I am an innovative person and always want to stand out from the others. Sometimes, it turns out to be just try to be different without any consideration. The most innovative part of my term is stop any “new & innovative ideas”. Putting committee on the track of sustainable development is the key for exponential growth. I truly believe the local committee will grow exponential in a sustainable
way in the future. It is not the matter of any single person but consist of you. I truly have learnt how to be a great leader by letting go as what Sir Szeto Wah said: “成功不必我在，功成其中有我” Those core learning I have learnt here is just internalize what I have learnt in school and society through the different treasurable opportunities.
Qven Wong Kiu Hei 16
Hong Kong Baptist Univeristy
B
eing the third local committee in AIESEC in Hong Kong , AIESEC in HKBU has always been striving hard in providing and facilitating fruitful leadership and exchange experience for our members and leaders in the past 24 years. We attract and cultivate young people with global mindsets while giving organizations an incredible opportunity to interact and access young people from all corners of the globe. We partner with a wide variety of organizations, from multinational to small business, non-profit to government.
17
AIESEC week 2011 was one of the largest annual events in our local committee. Our theme this year was “Global Competitiveness”, which aimed at increasing students’ global exposure and vision such that they are able to compete with others worldwidely. We proudly presented three sctivities throughout the week: global village, networking skill workshop and “Global Competitiveness - to be world talent” symposium.
Developing Leaders Day
O
ne of the priorities of AIESEC is to empower our members to think more in-depth and broadly about themselves, their surroundings, and contemporary issues around the world. That is why this year, AIESEC hosted three Developing Leaders Days on current issues which are affecting Hong Kong society.
On October 30th, AIESEC held a Developing Leaders Day on ‘Hong Kong’s Competitiveness in the Global Context’. This forum included presentations by: Keynote Speech The Honorable Dr. Leung Chun-Ying, GBS, JP Convenor of the Non-official Members of the Executive Council ‘Human Capital Vision 2020 for Hong Kong’ Mr. Eddie Ng Chairman Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority ‘Hong Kong Manpower Development and Projection’ Mr. Paul Tang Permanent Secretary for Labor and Welfare, HKSAR Government ‘Reaching the TOP of your career ‘ Mr. Stephen Leung Country Manager Pfizer Corporation Hong Kong Limited ‘HKIA and Hong Kong’s Competitiveness’ Mr. Wilson Fung Executive Director Corporate Development, Hong Kong Airport Authority The forum enabled in-depth exposure to Hong Kong’s strategic positioning and allowed our members to hear first-hand accounts on the effect of global competition on Hong Kong’s institutions. On January 14th, we had our second Developing Leaders Day for the 2010-11 year, where the topic was on Intrapreneurship and Entrepreneurship in Hong Kong’s Business Culture: Enabling Individuals to Exceed with their Ideas. From large multi-national companies, to small and medium sized enterprises, the forum had diverse perspectives on taking a conceptual idea into a tangible reality. Apart from the presentations, the members found the networking session especially engaging, where they were able to approach the speakers for further consultation.
19
On May 18th, AIESEC Hong Kong held its third Developing Leaders Day on the topic of Generational Gaps in the Workplace. This forum dove deep into the subject of the varying generations we have today, from Generation Y, X, and Z in the western world, to the post-80s and 90s of Asia. Rarely is the subject told from a cultural perspective, which we found was relevant in such an international city as Hong Kong.
ECOlity
21
I
n 2010, AIESEC Hong Kong held its first global youth summit on sustainability, GREENeration Y. Riding on the success of that conference, AIESEC Hong Kong held the ECOlity Global Youth Summit on Sustainability, which was fully supported by Bank of China (Hong Kong) as the Title Sponsor. To ensure there was community impact and follow-up, we continued the conference format of an international business plan competition. We had 130 delegates spanning 7 countries join us this year to be placed into 14 energetic teams, which were made of local secondary school students, local university students, and international university students. The diverse teams allowed the learning of each participant to go beyond the topic of sustainability, and into the realm of leadership, cultural understanding, and interpersonal skill building. The first day started with a lively opening ceremony, where we had the pleasure to invite the Under Secretary for the Environment, Dr. Kitty Poon, and representatives from our title sponsor, Bank of China (Hong Kong). Furthermore, we were able to enjoy two prominent keynote speakers, Dr. William Yu of World Wide Fund Hong Kong and Mr. Andy Brown of Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden, who afterwards participated in a panel discussion on Hong Kong’s current state of sustainability, facilitated by Mr. Toby Kent of PriceWaterhouseCoopers. Over the next two days, the delegates participated in 4 modules: Living On Health And Sus-
tainability (LOHAS), Innovation, World Environment Day, and Good Case Practices. Each module had the same format, where a keynote speaker would set the atmosphere with an intriguing keynote speech, then 3-5 speakers would be invited up to participate in a panel discussion, and then the speakers would split the delegates into groups for different breakout sessions, which were then followed by a consultation with the speakers. After each module, the delegates were allotted time to regroup and revise their business plans with the information they had just received. In the evenings, the participants bonded by creating a team name, a team cheer, and representing each other in team-building competitions during a party. On the last day of the 4 day 3 night conference, the 14 groups created booths to represent their proposed business plan to be judged by 3 externals. The judges selected the top 3 groups to present their plans in front of everyone, for which the winning group, Carbon 14, took home the 10,000HKD start-up prize from Bank of China (Hong Kong). Overall, the conference was a huge success and reached our objective of educating Hong Kong’s youth to become ambassadors of sustainable development. Plans have already been set for ECOlity 2012 and we are more than excited for what is to come.
22
International Conference
23
International Congress
T
he International Congress in Hyderabad India 2010 was the highlight of the three years of my AIESEC journey in terms of its global reach and conference depth. Needless to say, the annual presidential congress was a platform for leaders of different minds but similar positions to exchange local practices and co-create a clear vision and direction for our organization. Unlike organizational management discussions among the national plenary, bringing local issues to the global plenary allowed inspirations for me to continue experimenting and exploring my leadership style. It was then that I realized problem-solving should not be the majority of focus when it comes to international conferences. Other unique learning captures in AIESEC would be Appreciate Inquiry method for organizational development and leadership empowerment, topics of which motivated me to breakthrough traditional grounds of success and performance in AIESEC. International Congress was also a platform for our partners to celebrate and witness our growing reach and impact to the global community. Listening to what our partners have to say regarding AIESEC’s internship exchanges was another reinforcement of our values in diversity and leadership. This evolving organization is drawing more and more young talents and hence requires a direction to channel members’ eagerness and passion to bring positive impact. This is why I am proud to be an AIESECer not only to serve my local committee but to bring the idea of mutual-development to the global level.
Unleash Asia Pacific International Conference
A
IESEC International Conference for me is definitely one of the sparking opportunities provided by AIESEC. In October 2010, I was honored to become one of the 4 representatives attending Unleash Asia Pacific International Conference organized in the Philippines. It was a golden learning opportunity for us to form strategies with AIESEC International and the leadership teams from different countries. Apart from strengthening our critical mindset and organizational understanding, what I treasure most was the close proximity with people from different countries in Asia Pacific Region. With no boundaries, our dialogues come across cultural sharing, economic development and social issues. By the time we reached the Philippines, a threat of terrorism was broken out which hindered some of the International AIESEC delegates from joining the Conference. Through meeting with the citizens there, the reality was far more than we expected. AIESEC members from the Philippines had secured a safe and rewarding tour visiting the Philippines for us. My appreciation always comes from their life passion, simplicity and open-mindedness to accept other’s perspectives towards different political, social views on their country. This beauty of high cultural sensitivity is the characteristics which I believe every AIESEC member should have. I truly encourage AIESEC members to attend different International Conferences because the experience will definitely provide them with numerous unexpected insights.
24
Asia Pacific Exchange & Leadership Development Semina
25
ar
I
t is my honor to represent the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong to participate in Asia Pacific eXchange and Leadership Development Seminar (APXLDS), the largest youth conference in the Asia Pacific region, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on March 20th – 26th 2011. Discover Vietnam
Have you ever seen a pregnant woman with a baby selling vendors of toys, postcards and food on the street? Have you ever seen a 3 year old boy selling cigarette and chewing gum in the tourist area? The boy looked at me through his sincere eyes and said in English inarticulately, “One Dollar.” It is not uncommon that mendicancy is everywhere At the first time, I expected as one of the emerging coun- in Vietnam. Many orphans, some are disabled, are selling try, Vietnam is similar to rural China. However, after this something every single day to make enough money to buy first ever trip, Vietnam surprised me much. I totally agree food to eat or somewhere to sleep for the night. They are that Vietnam is what local Vietnamese described, “Hidden uneducated as they do not have enough money for school. Charm”. It is really a pretty sad phenomenon that the government and public should deal with. Walking on the street in Vietnam is a relaxing activity. It is like walking in an architecture museum because the Final Words buildings are colorful and well designed. Vietnam was one I regard this conference as one of my stepping stone to of the French colonies, so many French styled buildings think further. I would like to thank AIESEC, the largest stusuch as palace were set up in Ho Chi Minh City. More- dent organization in the world, for giving this golden opover, foreigners were usually shocked by a large bundle portunity to attend this amazing conference, to inspire as of wires exposed on the street. Paul from United States well to be inspired. Moreover, thank you Shaw College for asked, “How could it happen?” supporting me through the financial assistance by “Shaw College Student Development Award Scheme“. Thank There are many Vietnamese restaurants in Hong Kong, you so much! but in Vietnam I have tried food that I have never experienced and those really surprised me a lot. You can never tell whether the food is good or bad because the taste is Alan, Li Ka Lun always “out of scope”. Insurance, Financial and Actuarial Analysis, Vietnamese always smile a lot. Linh once told me, “No Shaw College, the Chinese University of Hong Kong worry, you are my friend, so I WILL HELP YOU!” Living in a busy city with “smart” people who are always calculating their “self interest”, I admire the pure mind of Vietnamese people. They tend to like and trust people, and treat strangers like close friends. 26
Outgoing Exchange Story
A
part from those experience gain from work, I also learn how to seize the day. And I treasure it more because I share my day and night with someone special, special enough to remember lifelong. I traveled a lot of places during the last few weeks. The beautiful island, highland and beaches capture many photos from camera; however, without friends hanging around, I am sure I will forget them easily after a few days. I still remember the sunset in Penang, the rainforest in Cameron Highland, the rainbow in Tioman...... I miss the places because I miss the people! What’s more? The local food is of course one of the highlight. The food I miss the most is DURIAN. I cannot imagine I ate durian in MYC. The OCP prepared durian and ice-cream to express the OCs special thanks to facilitators on the last night. I cannot stop loving durian crazily start from that moment! The Banana Leaf Rice I share with the Seafield delegates as our ‘Last Supper’ is the most delicious Indian food I had in Malaysia. Again, the food would not be that tasty if the local AIESECers and students were not eating with me. Another unique present that interns gain is a journey in host family in Subang Jaya, Selangor. I stayed in Audrey’s sweet family. I miss the pil-
low-talk with the lovely and smart girl in her stars and moons room. Her family is full of love. Sometimes, we lack of the courage to express our love. It is not easy to say I love you to our parents in HK, but it is just normal when I saw what Audrey did. SIX weeks is a short period, but still long enough for me to integrate in Malaysia and UPM. It is all because of MIRACLE, waving flag MIRACLE!!! I have never thought of being a facili- tator can gain so much before and after MYC. ‘I love MYC’ is widely spread in MYC as we love each other when we share the same vision. Since the theme this year is BEYOND MYC, we do not stop loving each other at the same time spread our care and concern towards our mother earth even though MYC officially ended. “Sometimes the sun goes round the moon; I see the passion in your eyes...” Sometimes it’s all a big SURPRISE!!!
Karrie YIP (Hong Kong) 2010 MIRAClE **You Are MY Number ONE!
28
Interns’ Stories
30
Lei hou!
T
he global village where East meets West; energetic and full of life, soaring sky scrapers, dynamic urban life-style, delicious dim sum, gorgeous beaches and landscapes - Hong Kong was easy to fall in love with. My 11 months internship has been a great experience providing me with wonderful opportunities for professional growth as well as an unforgettable and enjoyable year in Asia’s world city. I was an intern at InvestHK, the department of the Hong Kong SAR Government responsible for Foreign Direct Investment. I was looking after the Middle East & North Africa market, involved in many exciting tasks related to attracting Arab Investments into Hong Kong. I worked with highly professional teams covering a broad range of sectors with supportive and experienced managers. I was given the opportunity to organize two highly successful investment promotion campaigns in the MENA region, accompanying my Directors to meet with key organizations in seven Arabic countries. I have developed many professional skills through closely liaising with the Arabic business com-
31
munity and consulates within Hong Kong as well as through research and relationship building with the MENA region. I was lucky to have worked with kind and knowledgeable colleagues who went to great lengths to teach me the Chinese Culture and language. In return, I prepared and presented cultural programs on the socio-political environment and business etiquette of the Arab world as well as conducted Arabic lessons. Thanks to AIESEC for its great platform that helps us discover our potential, strengthen it and then use that to realize our dreams. I have become more aware of myself and my career, and built a precious network of intellectual and like-minded friends around the globe, whilst gaining invaluable assets, both professionally and personally, which distinguish me among many peers.
Ahmad Alghawanmeh
A
s an intern, I had the chance to begin my journey in Hong Kong at the same time that the MC of 2010-2011 was starting its term. For me, coming from the other side of the world, everything was so new and different, and the chance of meeting new people and making new friends was a very important step into this process of adaptation in a new environment that constantly challenged me with different cultures and ideas. AIESEC in Hong Kong made me feel right at home and it was fundamental for this process; with them I could really experience the concept of living diversity and making a positive impact on society by sharing more of my professional and personal experiences with its members, learning a lot from them and having fun at the same time. The company I work with, CWCC, truly recognizes AIESEC as an important source of human talent and as a component for cultural understanding, which is also a value that we advocate for. Overall, I just had an amazing year and would like to congratulate AIESEC for the great job and professionalism performed this last year. We have grown a little bit together and I would be more than happy to keep contributing for the development of this great organization!
Julia Ferraz 32
M
y name is Tiina, and I am from Finland. This is my second internship with AIESEC in Asia. I would like to congratulate AIESEC for providing 15, 000 internships around the world over the past year! I am more than happy to be one of these people who had the opportunity to experience living and working abroad. My traineeship with AIESEC PolyU has been very enriching for so far and local AIESECers have been helpful to me right from the beginning. Working in the University enables me to meet the local students everyday and explore the Chinese culture. Apart from working, during these 4 months in Hong Kong, I have been travelling in a few other countries in Asia and I am happy to have experienced new spare time activities such as Yoga and Tai Chi for example. We have a big trainees’ community in Hong Kong which is quite involved in initiatives of local AIESECers. In my view, AIESEC is an excellent opportunity for young people not only to get to know to the world around them but get to know to themselves and develop themselves. After the internship in Malaysia and the current internship in Hong Kong I feel my general view of the world has become closer, I feel that I can go anywhere and I am capable of doing anything there. I have grown my knowledge and skills in many professional capabilities as well as developed as a whole.
33
Tiina Juhola
AIESEC ALUMNI Hong Kong 35
Report from Chairman of Council
O
ver the past 42 years AIESECers from all generations and different universities in Hong Kong have dedicated their time, energy and passion in creating positive impact to the local and global community. Their efforts have helped to grow and shape the AIESEC in Hong Kong today. Each AIESEC alumnus has a very unique AIESEC experience, be it eye-opening or challenging, heart-warming or intriguing. Despite of the above-mentioned, the lack of a formal organization to re-unite our AIESEC talents together did annoying me since 1998. I always believe the growth of any student run organization must be accompanying with an alumni association. My passion and experience in running alumni association drive me to spread this message to local and national chapters of AIESEC Hong Kong, years after years.
(2009-2011)
Facing the turbulence and uncertainties in our living environment, getting united with common values become more competitive and favorable for the well beings. An alumni association can serve as an effective platform for building interpersonal relationship, thereafter we can learn and help each other, thus doing more social good to the community. We hope AAAHK can leverage the experience of all alumni with students together, thereafter making contribution to the society and become more well-established in the coming future. AAAHK shall also continue acting as a platform to all AIESEC members and associates of all ages, backgrounds and experiences to interact from various involvements with our community. I want to thank all Council and Executive members for their significant contributions and the impact they made to the association. On a personal level, I consider it a privilege to have worked with you during my tenure as Chairman of the Council. Let’s continue spreading our spirits to our alumni and friends of AIESEC.
Until 2008 when a group of enthusiastic alumni with the same belief joining together, having long-awaited desire to get connected with our old friends who used Mingles Tsoi to share common values and to contribute back to the society with our post-AIESEC experience, AIESEC Chairman of Council, Session 2009 – 2011 Alumni Association was successfully established in AIESEC Alumni Association of Hong Kong Limited October 2009.
36
Join Us
The success of AIESEC Alumni Association of Hong Kong depends not only on the current Council and executive committees, but also the support from all aaahk AIESEC alumni, AIESEC Member Committee, Local Committees, AIESEC interns, AIESEC members. Your participation and contribution to AAAHK is truly valuable to the development of AIESEC Hong Kong and self development too. We are looking forward to seeing the largest alumni association in Hong Kong which creates the biggest impact to the society locally and globally. Come and join us!
Ivan Chiu
Managing Director, Executive Committee Session 2009 – 2011 AIESEC Alumni Association of Hong Kong Limited
37