Youth Hong Kong | 14.4 Gifts of 2022

Youth HONG KONG

YOUTH HONG KONG published quarterly by The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups

EDITORIAL BOARD

Andy Ho (Chair)

Lakshmi Jacota (Vice Chair)

Ada Chau (Managing Editor)

Gwen Sin (Senior Editor)

Angela Ngai

Hsu Siu-man

William Chung

Christa Cheung

Winky Ang Miranda Ho

CIRCULATION (unaudited)

9,000 in Hong Kong, throughout the region and overseas

VIEWS EXPRESSED are the authors’ and interviewees’, may come from official sources, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial board or publisher

REPRODUCTION OF CONTENTS without written permission from the publisher is prohibited

OVERVIEW

Lakshmi Jacota

SECTIONS & TRANSLATION

Gwen Sin, Ada Chau and CPS team

PHOTOGRAPHS

Gwen Sin, stock images or in public domain

TRADEMARKS All brand names and product names are registered trademarks. Youth Hong Kong is not associated with any product or vendor mentioned in articles.

Youth Hong Kong December 2022 Volume 14 Number 4

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At the end of every year, we normally reflect on what has just passed: on what has brought us joy and, of course, what has challenged us the most. But we also reflect on those things and encounters that have changed our lives for the better, either through things learnt, experienced, or better still, acquired.

These elements of providing opportunities to young people, where they can learn, experience and acquire new skills and competencies both for the present and their futures, are the foundation stones on which the Federation has built its mission of service for more than 60 years.

This issue of Youth Hong Kong asks young people to share their stories of what they believe are the ‘gifts’ that they have received from the Federation over the past year. We are so thankful for their own hearts and passion for joining in our programmes and activities, and through these acts of participation, we see how they have also learnt to give back to others.

As the world continues to face innumerable challenges, let us remember those things that changed us for the better and try to find ways to offer that gift to others.

Wishing you and your loved ones, the blessings of the Season.

Andy Ho Wing-cheong Executive Director, HKFYG

December 2022

This is the season of gifting: getting and receiving. Generally, they are tangibles; things that can be boxed and wrapped; elements of surprise, expectation and sometimes even disappointment.

What about the intangible gifts that we might have received out of season? Gifts that don’t come gift wrapped with bows, instead, they come through experiences or lessons or encounters. Gifts that don’t generally get discarded in a week or are more challenging to exchange. Gifts that have impact and change us, usually for the better.

These are the gifts that are covered in this issue: gifts that young people have received over the year that have

influenced on their lives; either by individually building up confidence or resilience; by making them brave or inquisitive; or by motivating the recipients to pass the gift forward by helping others. These are also the gifts that they have given back, through volunteering and caring for others; by teaching and connecting people together.

The Federation doesn’t really see itself as a ‘gift giving’ organisation; rather, we call ourselves a service organisation or a non-governmental organisation (NGOs), which we are.

We see ourselves as an organisation that sees a need and seeks to fill it in relation to young people. We see ourselves as supporting innovation by having the freedom to look at

Perhaps what we do can best be summed up by what Winston Churchill once wrote, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.

Redefining Ourselves

issues from different angles and create pilot projects that perhaps governments are unable to do. We see ourselves as being able to nurture and train young people to develop and deepen their levels of skills and competencies; to have experiences and exposures that they might otherwise not have and to instil in them the confidence and courage to be leaders, in whatever domain, for the future.

We see ourselves as the vanguard of research and monitoring or youth concerns and issues, evaluating processes and sharing results with the wider community so that change might happen. And we see ourselves as champions of advocacy for and with youth people to influence government policies. Finally, we see ourselves as facilitators

of communication, not speaking for young people, but speaking with their voice as we can in trust and reputation.

All these things are actually “gifts”. Perhaps what we do can best be summed up by what Winston Churchill once wrote, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

As we go into the new year, hopefully putting aside all the challenges and changes we have faced, we can redefine ourselves. See what we do, not simply as a duty or service to others, but as gifts that we give, because we know that they are gifts that are paid forward as young people mature and make their own mark in the world.

thanks and being grateful has never gone out of season. As the end of the year approaches, Youth Hong Kong spoke to 12 people who have in some ways benefited much from HKFYG’s programmes and assistance.

Giving thanks and being grateful has never gone out of season.

As the end of the year approaches, Youth Hong Kong spoke to 12 interesting profiles who have in some ways benefited much from HKFYG’s programmes and assistance.

18-year-old Alex Chen enjoys sports like jogging, volleyball and swimming. Naturally, he did not give a second thought about becoming a member when he first learnt about the regular running programme conducted by HKFYG’s Community Team Sports (CTS) through his teacher at the Pentecostal Holiness Church (PHC) Wing Kwong College. Eventually he heard about the Run 21 Challenge in 2021. Alex decided to participate as one of the 12 running enthusiasts in trying to clock in 124 kilometers in 21 hours, partly out of curiosity and partly as a personal motivation to his own perseverance. By this feat, he together with the other youth were able to raise funds for youth sports development programmes so that all young people, especially the disadvantaged, will be encouraged to participate in sport.

Alex reminisces, “Running is more than just a sport; it has somewhat become a passion for me through Run 21. We had to train a few months before the actual run, as there are 21 Youth S.P.O.Ts centres to cover within the 21-hour time frame.”

Alex is thankful for the experience, where he learnt and gained socially as part of his personal growth, beyond what his textbooks were able to offer. “It was very tiring and difficult (to hit 124 kilometres) in 21 hours. But we cajoled one another not to give up. Our coach told us even if we cannot complete and make it to the end destination, the other teammates should continue to run on and complete the rest of the itinerary as planned.”

Taking Small Steps to Create Real Change

Second-year university student Lo Hoi Yan first learnt about HKFYG’s Youth Volunteer Network’s “Caring to Call – Calling to Care” service through her undergraduate studies in Social Work at Hong Kong Shue Yan University during the pandemic.

The service aims at providing services that cover emotional support, telemedicine services, short-stay accommodation, donations of antiepidemic materials and career advice to at least 10,000 people in need, including the elderly, disadvantaged families, DSE (Diploma of Secondary Education) students and unemployed youth. This was a worrying trend during the pandemic, where the vulnerable because more isolated. So volunteers like Hoi Yan, were able to provide some sort of support for the needy.

Hoi Yan recalls, “About two to three of us were assigned as a group to do the calls and also house visits. Before going to visit them, we usually called and chated with them about their lives and needs. We visited four to five households within the same day and same district.”

Hoi Yan wishes to encourage other youth to take baby steps to make changes in society. “Taking time to have a conversation with our neighbours is a good and small step to make. We should drop the notion that being a volunteer needs long hours of service. It should be the small efforts we make in adding and contribute to see a real difference in our community.”

Volunteerism Through Daily Life

26-year-old Gloria To does voluntary work rather differently. She enjoys teaching young children how to make desserts. In her free time, she enjoys bringing elderly to the local universities for a visit. In return, they impart to her some of their legacy recipes in making signature dishes. Gloria realizes it is through these activities that the Hong Kong elderly are not some “coldblooded” and “grumpy” seniors. On the contrary, they are quite willing to share their knowledge once they warm up to volunteers and form a bond.

“Many of these elderly people that we met through the HKFYG’s Youth Volunteer Network’s “Caring to Call –Calling to Care” service started talking to us like we were their grandchildren. I also remember this ‘grandmother’ teaching other volunteers and me to play a traditional Chinese instrument. Eventually, we learned the instrument well enough to play her a birthday song!”

Gloria is thankful that through volunteering, she finds fulfillment and immense personal development growth. She began to see a different side of herself, and approaches life differently to nurture greater engagement.

Getting into the School Team Despite All Odds!

MrsVictoria Zhang* was initially taken aback, when her boy Craig* was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism in Kindergarten. It was a trying time for her husband and her. Both also had very differing parental styles, which often led to clashes. All three of them were exhausted, and to make things worse, little Craig would often bite her as he didn’t know how to process his difficult emotions.

By chance, Mrs Zhang came upon the HKFYG’s CTS programmes while taking a brief respite at the Tseun Wan Youth S.P.O.T Centre. “I saw the sports programme listings offered by HKFYG CTS. I decided to enroll Craig into a football programme, so that he could improve his Body Mass Index (BMI); make new friends while I have some downtime from taking care of him.”

HKFYG CTC not only offers a variety of sports programmes to train young people; counselling is also imbued to instill values, nurture talents and develop a commitment to service.

Through the CTC football programme, Mrs Zhang has notice little Craig is more articulate in expressing himself, as well as applying what he is being taught. He practices kindness, teamwork and being thankful. Even beyond her expectation Craig was selected to be in the school football team, when he entered Primary 1. Mrs Zhang beamed with obvious pride when sharing this point, and hoped that Craig would continue to enjoy playing football, while being an inspiration to so many other SEN (Special Educational Needs) children!

*Names have been changed at the request of the interviewee

Maintaining a Good Heart Never Giving Up

Daisy Yam was assigned to take up running organised by the HKFYG’s Youth Support Scheme (YSS) Unit, when she was caught shoplifting at 14 years old. This programme is one of the many programmes organised by the HKFYG under the Community Support Service Scheme (CSSS), which aims at providing supporting services to children and youth cautioned under the Police Superintendent’s Discretion Scheme. Arrested youth and their peers are assigned to such programmes to help them reintegrate into the community and to reduce their likelihood of law re-offending.

Her HKFYG social worker, Ms Pauline Ho shared her impressions of Daisy. “Daisy is actually a cooperative and obedient girl. I shared a few programmes and activities which she could to participate in, such as leadership camps and swimming lessons. She agree to go for all of them. Her mother was initially worried about her asthma. But she managed to overcome this, and even stayed on to be a voluntary running coach to other youth ranging from 12 to 17 years-old, even after her offence was waived after a two-year social worker’s counselling.”

Daisy who is now doing her Year Four Business Administration studies at Hong Kong Baptist University felt that her juvenile offence turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

“Without that impulsive act then, I would not have known how to get over my boredom at home. Neither could I have imagined what I would be like now. I hope my simple sharing will encourage other youth to be courageous in taking the first step to try something positive of their hearts’ desires, such as running was for me. Even if I didn’t do well initially, I never gave up and continue to work on my weaknesses."

21-year-old Nick Tong was always inspired by the fighting choreography executed in Hong Kong action films. His instinct was to use his fists to retaliate when faced with conflict during high school. After one fight, he was assigned to the Police Superintendent's Discretion Scheme and received support from HKFYG, where he was reconnected with Mr. Ki, his current social worker.

Meeting Mr. Ki was not new for him, as he participated in a cycling activity that Mr. Ki had previously organised. Mr. Ki recalls, “Nick was very different when I met him as a younger boy at our cycling programme, versus when he reached his late teens and his juvenile offence happened. But deep inside, I know he still has a good heart.”

Mr. Ki encouraged Nick to take up muay thai classes and also roped him in to help distribute food to the elderly, and he has been a regular since then. Overtime, Terry saw Nick’s dedication and how has better emotional management and became more mature in dealing with others. Nick is doing a High Diploma with the Hong Kong Design Institute in Filmmaking now.

Taking More Time for Reflection

17-year-old Vanessa Zhu was caught beating up another youth in early 2021, which resulted her being assigned to the Police Superintendent's Discretion Scheme and receiving support from HKFYG’s Youth Support Scheme subsequently.

She shares, “I was quite exasperated initially when I was placed under this Scheme, but when I was then exposed to programmes and counselling support, I found it more helpful then I expected. I am grateful to HKFYG for providing medical assistance and helping me cope with my health issues. I am also learning from my counselling sessions with my social worker that I should always reflect on various perspective and consider the feelings of others."

Vanessa expressed gratitude to the HKFYG for giving her the opportunity to try different activities, especially the expressive art programme as part of the integration phase. She is also thankful to her social worker, Roger Lam for his constant reminders towards self-appreciation, strength searching* and keeping a positive mindset towards adversities.

Vanessa is currently undergoing a Foundation Diploma at Lingnan University.

*Strength searching is a social work practice theory that emphasises people's selfdetermination and strengths.

Affirming the Human Connection Catching Up on Lost Time

35-year-old Ah Fung* took drugs and was addicted for ten years, before deciding enough was enough. He shares, “It was great initially, to be elusive and in a ‘carefree’ state of mind when I first began my drug addiction in my late teens. But the addiction grew and grew, where nothing seemed to give me the same ‘high’ as before.”

What eventually shook Ah Fung out of the drug abuse was the constant support received from the HKFYG social workers. “Leo Sir talks a lot of sense by asking if this is the lifestyle I wish to lead forever? What about going after my dreams and doing something worthwhile?”

With this constant encouragement, Ah Fung was resolute to leave his company of friends who are also drug abusers and instead pursue the necessary certifications to be a lifeguard. With determination blazing in his eyes, Ah Fung only wishes to stay focused and catch up on lost time.

*Name has been changed at the request of the interviewee

26-year-old Julia* first learnt about HKFYG and its various programmes when she was in Secondary One. She had an enjoyable time and fond memories of the activities organised, so it is of little surprise that she would continue improving herself through the short-term courses provided by the HKFYG. But what really touches Julia and constantly draws her back to the Federation is also the human connection. As a single parent with a four-year-old boy, daily life can be challenging at times. HKFYG’s strong social work foundation and support have been great for Julia and her son, Bob.

“My social worker, Wako will constantly check in on me. She is worried about me, especially about my emotional state. I can feel that she is unlike other social workers and genuinely cares, and it feels like family.”

Julia’s advice to Hong Kong youth is not to be constantly afraid of being ‘right’ or ‘wrong’. “Youth tend to be easily labelled by others. If we eliminate such biasness, there will be lesser extreme actions taking place. We must be courageous to take small constructive steps to move forward and not have any regrets.”

*Name has been changed at the request of the interviewee

Begets

24-year-old Ah Keong* never forgets the crisis and family support services extended by the HKFYG when he was 15. “My school environment then was rough. I was often getting into fights as a gang member. When I was hauled up to the police station for the second time, I needed to sign some legal documents and I also needed to attend court sessions with my parents. My parents and I were clueless about such procedural details. I was able to receive supporting services from the HKFYG. I am so grateful to the HKFYG’s social worker, Suki who is more like a friend to me. She understands my feelings and her advice is never like nagging.”

Ah Keong heeded Suki’s advice and went back to school to finish his secondary education. He now holds a stable job working in the shippingindustry, and has often volunteer with the HKFYG to distribute food and necessities to the elderly since turning 18.

His advice to other youth? “Hang out with the right group of friends who are able to make a positive impact in your life.” He also thanks the HKFYG and his parents for standing by him during his offending.

*Name has been changed at the request of the interviewee

21-year-old Giann Ho first got to know about the HKFYG’s Easy Volunteer matching platform easyvolunteer.hk through her current studies as a nursing student at the Caritas Institute of Higher Education. “I had to fulfil some credits as a volunteer in my course, and I decided to search for a suitable organisation from the matching platform. It was great because it brings together volunteers and service opportunities. From this platform, my classmates and I managed to volunteer by distributing necessities and food to the elderly during COVID-19.”

The HKFYG’s Easy Volunteer matching platform is devised by the Federation’s Membership and Volunteer Unit. Established in 2014, it connects volunteers and groups that provide service opportunities, so that volunteers are not limited by time and place. One can search for suitable volunteer service opportunities, practice the spirit of helping others with actions, and integrate love into life.

Giann is grateful with the match, where she could even plan virtual exercises for the elderly to participate. “It was not an easy time for everyone to be grounded at home during the pandemic. I thought of the elderly as my own parents and grandparents who are not techsavvy. So my classmates and I tried to engage them in simple ways and allowed more time for them to figure out the technical issues.” Giann wishes to encourage everyone to use and adopt new technological ways to fulfil “service before self” acts.

15-year-old Deborah Cheung has been playing volleyball for eight years and is currently in the school team at Kowloon Truelight School. When her coach told her about the V. Cares Youth Volleyball Training Programme organised by HKFYG's CTS this year, she thought it would be a great opportunity to improve her technicality.

“It was a complimentary programme. My parents thought it was a good idea for me to participate in as many of these activities as possible, rather than for me to be at home. I also wanted to learn how to improve as a libero (ie. back-row defensive specialist for indoor volleyball).

“The highlight of the four-month training programme was going on this three-day, two-night camp where we had to stay together with other teammates. Most of us did not know one another, except four of them being my current schoolmates and from another affiliated school. It was during this camp where I learnt to get along with different girls of different personalities from so many different schools. There was a night some of us stayed up late and had heart-to-heart conversations. A great bond was forged.”

Things did not always go smoothly during the V.Cares programme. Nearing the tournament’s finals – the programme’s finale highlight – one of Deborah’s teammates contracted COVID-19 and had to be isolated. They also lost in one of the semi-finals. All these setbacks kept Deborah and her teammates on their toes by staying focused and determined to win the championship, which they eventually did. There were tears of hard work, camaraderie, and sacrifices but they were worth it all.

“I would encourage every youth to participate in these programmes organised by HKFYG. For me, joining the V.Cares Programme allowed me to work on my foundation and also characterbuilding. Even my parents notice I’ve changed for the better through the participation in these programmes.”

Envisage the Youth Development Blueprint: Survey Summary and Advocacy

The Home & Youth Affairs Bureau will publish the first edition of the Youth Development Blueprint by 2022 year-end to outline the principles, objectives and actions of the Government in pursuing youth development. The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups' (HKFYG) Youth Research Centre surveyed 630 respondents aged 15 to 35 years old in October 2022 on their views. YHK shares the following findings.

• 630 respondents aged 15-35 years old were recently interviewed about their views about future development by HKFYG's Youth Research Centre, in tandem with the Youth Development Blueprint to be released by the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB).

• Apart from HYAB’s seven policy aspects, we suggest that equal opportunities and sustainable development are crucial areas to be included in the blueprint.

• Diversifying Hong Kong’s economy is essential to youth development, such as providing more support to the newly emerged industries like the creative craftsmanship industry or sports industry. For talent development, response to the trend of “slashie” culture should take priority.

• Our survey reaffirms that the housing problem is of utmost concern to young people. Our suggestions include increasing the supply of youth hostels and setting up Cash Allowance Trial Scheme for young people to rent a flat.

• Engaging more youth to participate in the mainland, and international internships and exchange programmes be the continuous work of the HKSAR Government.

•The average satisfaction score for Hong Kong's current situation for young people is 4.32 (on a 0-10 scale), which is below average.

Most youth think Hong Kong lacks opportunities for career development and upward mobility.

61.6% agreed that the opportunities for upward mobility are not enough

Only 11.9% felt Hong Kong has enough opportunities for career development

Only 12.9% said they are satisfied with their opportunities in Hong Kong

•Respond to the home-buying opportunities and housing needs of young people (58.3%).

The top three issues that youth consider the most important are:

•Housing needs (53.3%)

•Income (49.5%)

Regarding the importance of different youth policies, more than 40% of the respondents consider the following as very important:

• Promoting youth mental health (46.3%)

•retaining talent (44.0%)

•Emotional/mental health (30.8%)

Our Advocacy

1.Don’t

The top three values that youth consider important are:

• improving the housing conditions of young people (43.5%)

miss equal opportunities and sustainable development

Apart from the HYAB’s seven policy foci, we suggest that equal opportunities and sustainable development are crucial areas to be included in the Blueprint. Since vulnerable groups should receive more attention and resources, ensuring young people from different ethnic and social backgrounds receive equal treatment in developing themselves should be the government’s mission. The needs of SEN youth, ethnic minority youth and youth-at-risk should be addressed. For sustainable development, we refer to the 17 SDGs of the United Nations. We assert that youth development and sustainable development are mutually supportive of each other. The government should formulate an action plan to strengthen the role of youth in advancing the sustainable development of Hong Kong by promoting sustainability education, fostering youthled climate actions and engaging youth to participate in urban planning.

2.Foster diversified industry and talent development

Over the past years, Hong Kong has relied on the development of the four pillar industries, namely: financial services; trading and logistics; tourism, and producer and professional services. Diversifying Hong Kong’s economy is essential to youth development.

The government should provide more support to the newly emerged industries such ascreative craftsmanship or sports industries. For talent development, the trend of “slashie” culture should take priority. The government should improve the qualifications framework so that flexi-work experience can be accumulated and recognized.

3.Address the housing needs

Our survey reaffirms that the housing issue is of utmost concern among Hong Kong youth. The HKSARG needs to show their determination in creating housing ladder for young people by providing more affordable housing options. Our suggestions include, increasing the supply of youth hostels, and setting up Cash Allowance Trial Scheme to rent a flat.

4.Broaden Young People’s Horizons

In order to let Hong Kong youth acquire a better understanding of the development of our country and the world, and develop a proper and holistic outlook, engaging more youth to participate in Mainland and international internship and exchange programmes should be the continuous work of the government. This will help strengthen the competitiveness of young people in Hong Kong.

For enquiries, pls contact Miss Chan Shui Ching / Unit-In-Charge at 3755 7040

Responsibility

Empathy Respect

Gwen Sin

Conglomerates and small-medium businesses in Hong Kong and worldwide face a unique and complex set of challenges when they are trying to address ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) issues. YHK discussed with three experts their industry observations in tackling environmental and social challenges to drive systematic change from risk to resilience.

While trying to address ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) issues, Hong Kong companies are up for a challenge.

From sustainable skincare products to eco-friendly clothing, small businesses across the city are making conscious efforts to lower their carbon footprint; increase consumer confidence, choice and help meet Hong Kong’s target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. • YHK discussed with three experts on their industry observations in tackling environmental and social challenges to drive systematic change from risk to resilience.

A record number of Hong Kong small-medium businesses are gradually placing sustainability at the heart of their business models, attracting new customers and driving growth especially during festivities like Christmas, Chinese New Year and Easter.

From sustainable skincare products to eco-friendly clothing, small businesses across the city are making conscious efforts to lower their carbon footprint; increase consumer confidence, choice and help meet Hong Kong’s target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Based on a local poll conducted by the Consumer Council1, Hong Kong consumers scored well in most

“Awareness” (average score: 74) and “Behaviour” (average score: 69) sub-indexes which implies their belief in the importance of Sustainable Consumption (SC). Clearly, this baseline survey which provided insights into Hong Kong consumers’ knowledge and priorities about SC indicates that demand for sustainable products and business practices are growing priorities in this international city.

Here are some further in-depth sharings with Simon Ng, Chief Executive Officer, Business Environment Council; Terence Hon, Co-Founder, GreenPriceand Jonathan Mok, Ecosystem Builder (Research & Insights), Dream Impact.

Ng, Chief Executive Officer, Business Environment Council

Briefly, could you give us an overview of what are the current circularity observations in Hong Kong in the past two to three years?

Overall, Hong Kong is still a very linear city, with limited progress in circularity. Areas crucial to circular economy, including design, repair, reuse, refurbishment and remanufacturing are concepts not well understood by the HKSAR Government, businesses and the wider public, and therefore are not common activities carried out in the city. Policies on resource management, for example, have typically been promulgated without strategic consideration of a circular economy.

regulations on eco-packaging, fundings to further support and increase employment opportunities, as well as to encourage pilot projects and trials facilitating research and development and building expertise.

Education and training to the public and relevant stakeholders along the resource value chain is another key to success, which can raise awareness and proper understanding of achieving circular economy. Moreover, the authority can explore possible avenues of collaboration with other regions likes the Greater Bay Area (GBA) to overcome the city’s limitation in scale and infrastructure.

Understanding on sustainability and ESG initiatives is still limited to a small cluster of SMEs in Hong Kong who are visionary and open to learn and embrace the trend. Nonetheless, more SMEs are showing interest in ESG and sustainability to avoid client loss and missed business opportunities, protect corporate image and reputation, and enhance ability to attract and retain talents and to raise capital.

What are 3 main barriers to get a mainstream circular economy in Hong Kong? What are the potential solutions to reduce these barriers?

In Hong Kong, the main barrier is inadequate understanding and awareness of circular economy concepts including design, repair, reuse, refurbishment, and remanufacturing in business sector. Hong Kong’s service-based economic structure and the lack of diverse industries also lead to a recycling gap in the city, as there is a shortfall in demand and use for recycled materials.

The macro-environment of Hong Kong also limits the city’s transition to a circular economy, for example the reliance on imported goods and resources which makes reverse logistics to recover resources difficult to implement. The geography, climate and size of the city further limit the potential for renewable energy and lead to insufficient land allocation to resource recovery and other related industries.

To overcome these barriers, the Government should introduce more guidelines and incentives to promote circular design, repair, reuse, refurbishment and remanufacturing in Hong Kong, to enhance understanding of circular economy, be inclusive to develop plans for the use of recycled materials in production and construction,

At BEC, circular economy is also one of our three Environmental Focus Areas (with the other two being climate change and sustainable living environment). We have set up the BEC Circular Economy Advisory Group to promote best practices in the circular economy and resource management amongst BEC members and the wider business community in Hong Kong. We are committed to playing a role in streamlining circular economy in the city.

What are some of the real benefits / values that could be offered to Hong Kong companies going on the circular economy route? What about consumers reaping in the benefits from the circularity application?

Economically, companies can save costs by preventing waste, for example through eco-design and reuse of resources along the value chain. Furthermore, exploring new business opportunities by transforming waste into quality, secondary raw materials can bring new income to the businesses and may develop innovations in different forms. For consumers, less waste means paying less under waste charging and living a more sustainable lifestyle.

Environmentally, reducing waste and transforming waste into resources can help achieve decarbonisation and combat climate change.

The current policy blueprints and the Climate Action Plan have set clear targets and strategies for various goals including cleaner air quality, zero landfills, netzero electricity generation and carbon neutrality by 2050. These are important policy directions that should remain unchanged. However, policy makers should track progress against interim targets and raise the ambition and/or deepen various measures if good progress has been made and when opportunities to accelerate action arise.

Simon

Do Hong Kong SMEs well understand sustainability and ESG initiatives?

Finally, what would BEC urge the Hong Kong government and policy makers do the ensure Hong Kong reaches its goal to be carbon neutral by 2050?

Terence Hon, Co-Founder, GreenPrice

“Circular Economy” practice is not something new in Hong Kong. Foremost, Hong Kong’s dominant economic sector still lies in the service industry, as most factories have relocated to mainland China decades ago. While Hong Kong’s recycling business plays an important role in resources recovery, it still relies on the mainland Chinese market to receive the waste, which has become increasingly difficult due to stricter regulations in China.

Hong Kongers are familiar with the 3R concept – Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. In recent years, there has been a growing number of private and public initiatives that enable circularity, as well as a greater adoption of circular business models in Hong Kong. Many startups have developed innovative business models where they use waste material to create useful products. This way they prevent or delay the entry of a plethora of products into the waste stream. As per a World Bank Report in 2018, Hong Kong generates around 5.39 million tonnes of solid waste every year. Most of this waste is either dumped in landfills or finds its way to water bodies. Imagining even 10 per cent of this waste being recycled or reused by startups is overwhelming.

For my startup, GreenPrice, we recognise this waste issue and decided to be a retailer that addresses environmental

issues and food poverty collectively. We wish to provide consumers with an option to buy in a green and costsaving manner, ie. selling safe and decent groceries, which have neared or passed their best-before date, lawfully at the bottom price through multiple channels of distribution. In turn, GreenPrice donates meals and medically formulated nutrient packs to children in need.

How are DEI (Diversity, Equality and Inclusion) and sustainability intertwined?

DEI and sustainability may seem disconnected, but they are actually overlapping with one another in the business world. The scope of sustainability in business has broadened beyond environmental footprint to include social responsibility and human rights broadly these days.

Like sustainability, meaningful DEI work isn’t just checking boxes and moving on. It also requires deeper reflection and more holistic approaches. This may happen as companies redefine or reaffirm their values and purpose.

References

https://www.consumer.org.hk/en/press-release/2016-sustainable-consumption https://www.wastereduction.gov.hk/sites/default/files/msw2020.pdf

https://www.consumer.org.hk/en/press-release/2016-sustainable-consumption https://www.rvo.nl/sites/default/files/2021/06/Hong-Kongs-circular-economy-background-and-opportunities.pdf

ESG is becoming more and relevant to companies of all sizes as it reinforces a long-standing positive corporate reputation attracting loyal consumers and top talent. Having a good ESG profile will also make a company more attractive to investors. But there is more. Employees also wish to work for companies with a strong set of ESG values and priorities, particularly if these values align with their own. Employees will then gauge what companies are doing to pursue their ESG values. Whether companies are doing enough will have an impact on how engaged employees are to the company through alignment of corporate and personal values, with other concerns such as renumeration.

Ultimately, all stakeholders should bear in mind that ESG is a reflection of the values of society. Where a business’s workforce aligns with society’s standard, a greater understanding of the market and customers will naturally be achieved. Within this alignment, only ESG can

As part of the current corporate responsibility practices, companies are also looking outwardly at how they will affect the communities they serve and type of contributions to society. So they turn “inward” and evaluate their values and purpose, and their community engagement and also how they treat their employees. It’s no longer limited to hiring diverse talent, but about inclusion.

Companies should look outward to understand what their contributions to the society are and how they affect community engagement. Inwardly, what about their purpose, values and practices? A strong focus on DEI can be the key to turning all sustainability efforts into a success. It will benefit the company and also the community at large, not to mention the existing employees and consumers.

Briefly, could you give us an overview of what are the current circularity observations in Hong Kong over the past two to three years?

Do Hong Kong consumers, employees and other stakeholders understand corporate sustainability and ESG initiatives? Please share and elaborate more.

Jonathan Mok, Ecosystem Builder (Research & Insights), Dream Impact

bring benefits to a company, including greater profits and enhanced attractiveness to investors and employees.

What are some of the initiatives that GreenPrice has embarked on embracing the circular economy and are doing well so far?

GreenPrice is a social enterprise specialising in retailing surplus and short-dated stock. Started through a university social innovation competition, the idea soon became a standalone store in December 2016.

The vision for our store was to create more than a place where people could discover an ever-changing selection of quality merchandise at significant discounts. We wanted to create a community hub where people could learn and discuss the way of living a sustainable life. It was also important for us to create real relationships with our stakeholders. Our core values of quality, product, integrity, entrepreneurship, thoughtfulness and fun are lived by our people every day and are at the heart of our unique company culture.

What barriers do you face to get consumers, employees and other stakeholders to understand ESG initiatives? What are the potential solutions to reduce these barriers?

In Hong Kong, the revised ESG Reporting Guide (the Guide) by the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) see some listed companies reporting on ESG information simply to fulfil the compliance requirements. More

companies are becoming aware of the business impact, as a result of ESG issues and are expected to continue to improve their ESG performance and reporting standards over time.

Given that mandatory ESG reporting requirements for general disclosure and environmental key performance indicator (KPI) disclosures were enacted within the past two years – which are still at an early development stage – it is understandable that it will take time for companies to move further along the ESG learning curve and integrate ESG issues into their core busses strategies. Currently, the ESG issues are still viewed as peripheral.

For companies, ‘sustainability’ refers to the creation of economic value with the consideration of the interests of various stakeholders, including employees, customers, local communities and the environment. But research was shown otherwise; and reveals that boards need to understand how the viability of their companies’ business model is affected by societal and environmental changes.

So real actions needed to be taken to address a diverse set of ESG issues by companies involve integrating the most important ESG issues into business strategies, tracking the right KPIs, incentivising management using those metrics, and communicating performance improvements to different stakeholders.

Companies are also required to change from a “business-asusual” approach to achieve such integration, which entails potential disruption, trade-offs and an innovative culture.

Diversity matters when it comes to the bottom line. Companies that prioritise ethnic, cultural, and gender diversity are seeing positive results that outpace their less diverse peers. Diversity plays an active role in better inclusive decision making, not just from a team’s perspective, but also more so from an overall organisational standpoint. A focus and genuine commitment to workplace diversity additionally helps companies build loyal relationships with their employees, customers, and community.

DEI can be a key differentiator because a diverse team allows for differentiated thinking. Companies that promote a culture in which employees feel safe to experiment with different solutions will also help drive innovation, growth in new directions, and breakthroughs to serve clients better.

It is important that there is a focus on recruiting outside of the sector; it isn’t just ticking the boxes on skills and experience but ensuring that people with different attributes and the right values are being considered for potential employment.

https://www.sie.gov.hk/en/resources/hksi/detail.page?content=10172

https://www.sie.gov.hk/en/our-work/funded-ventures/detail.page?content=1368

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/link-between-sustainability-dei-diversity-equity-/?trk=organization-update-content_share-article https://smsbf.org/sustainability-goes-hand-in-hand-with-dei/

From your experience and / or observations, how has DEI helped corporates become better in decision-making?

Finally, what would you urge Hong Kong youth and other consumers in keeping and / or reconsidering their DEI mindset collectively?

Observing

During Festivities

Gwen Sin

Asian festivities often signify a time of celebration and sharing of merry moments over heightened consumerism during the year end. Be it Christmas, Chinese New Year or Easter, every festivity is celebrated with lots of love and passion through the spirit of gift-giving. YHK spoke to Dr. Tim Rosenkranz from the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Professor Christine Loh from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology on such marketing tactics, also known as festive advertising.

• Heightened consumerism often result from a time of celebration especially during Asian festivities.

• From an anthropological perspective, it is about the shared understandings of what the items, gestures, or interactions are being conveyed. Indirectly, it thus becomes a subtle form of communication through giving and receiving through the gift.

• The COVID-19 global pandemic has resulted in major changes to advertising, marketing, promotional and media spends, forcing businesses and brands to reevaluate their thinking about current and future advertising and marketing campaigns. While brands currently seek to strike the right tone during a global health emergency, the future portends market alteration, increased competition and a demand for creative and aggressive marketing practices.

Festive or occasion-based advertising has typically been of a tactical nature with brands focusing on discounts or freebies to trigger a purchase. It is only now that the brands have started crafting festive communication around insights relevant for the time or the season.1

To begin with, let us explore the origins of gift-giving. According to Dr. Rosenkranz, the exact century remains to be unknown till the current time. Giftgiving evolved rather naturally among humans, and only began to have more significance in the social relationships at different times and societies. Gift-giving creates and nurtures social bonds, and it is not just about the giver, but also about the receiver. A ring popping up during a proposal signifies a nuptial engagement. This further translates

to lasting connections and mutual obligations, and which the receiver is expected to “give back” through the exchange of another ring to signify commitment.

Dr. Rosenkranz adds that because gifts are about meaningful, mutual relationships, it matters deeply what and how much the giver and receiver both give and get. From an anthropological perspective, it is about the shared understandings of what the items, gestures, or interactions are being conveyed. Indirectly, it thus becomes a subtle form of communication through the giving and receiving of gifts. How much or little that are given could sometimes be an one-time occurrence, but usually is embedded in ongoing and long-time circulations of giving and receiving with different people.

Prof. Loh gives a different perspective on consumerism, where consumers are basically users of certain products who buy them for their own consumption. In affluent Hong Kong, affordability is not an issue to most people, and consumerism is then extended to ‘needs’ becoming finite, while ‘wants’ can also turn infinite.

This is also where extended consumerism takes place, where people end up buying more than needed, such as clothes and food, through the habit of overpurchasing and end up not consuming, which leads to waste.

Consumerism Challenges the Gi -Giving Tradition

Dr. Rosenkranz adds, “Consumerism is often some sort of normative shorthand for excessive capitalism; the judgment that we buy and consume too much and too fast without getting lasting satisfaction. If you want to apply this to gift-giving, something seems to get lost on one hand. Why do we need to give more and more products to express and maintain our mutual relationships? Is that necessary? Does this not create frustrations and anxieties for those who cannot give more?

“But, on the other hand, does that mean that giving less is better? That really depends on the specific and different kinds of social relationships.”

Prof. Loh comments that the COVID-19 pandemic has also changed our regular activities almost overnight. Working from home became prevalent, and indirectly affected many people’s habits and buying behaviour worldwide. She says, “For example, adult consumers started to improve their workspaces and work equipment at home, and likewise for schoolchildren who have to have their lessons online through the use of smart gadgets and paid virtual connectivity subscription.

“People no longer needed to travel to their offices to work. The substitute for eating out was replaced with ordering online for deliveries and cooking at home. The pandemic experience showed how our activities affected what we consumed. Facemasks became a big business, and you can see many types and designs on the market. Wastefulness in food and packaging also became a major problem.”

Post-Pandemic Impact on Festive Gi ing

The COVID-19 global pandemic also resulted in major changes to advertising, marketing, promotional and media spends, forcing businesses and brands to re-evaluate their thinking about current and future advertising and marketing campaigns. While brands currently seek to now strike the right tone, the future portends market alteration, increased competition and a demand for creative and aggressive marketing practices.2

Though the pandemic and ensuing lockdowns came

as a sudden blow, many retailers are bouncing back to normalcy and the retail sales boom observed at the peak of the festive season is a testament to the improving consumer sentiment. It was reported by the South China Morning Post (SCMP) in January 2022 that thousands of Hong Kongers were reportedly flocking to the Mong Kok Kong flower market, to do their festive shopping ahead of Lunar New Year when the local health authorities decided to cancel traditional Lunar New Year fairs, disappointing shoppers and florists alike.3

Minimalism, on the contrary, is gaining traction among consumers in recent years. Movements like the Buy Nothing initiative and decluttering techniques by Marie Kondo are just some examples. Prof. Loh says, “Minimalism is a reaction to rampant consumerism. The message is ‘It is not cool to be wasteful’. You may remember it used to be popular to advertise Hong Kong as a place where you can ‘shop and eat till you drop’, This is now very uncool. Minimalism and decluttering are also seen as liberating, as having lots of “stuff” weighs people down – materialism is a burden. Having said that, consumerism remains a major problem in terms of how it negatively impacts the environment.”

Prof. Loh concludes that it is still possible to change consumers’ buying behaviour when consumers realize part of their actions can be harmful and excessive. “We can perhaps make it simple by focusing on

(marketing) campaigns that resonate across society in general. Personally, I would choose to focus on campaigns to get people to reduce food waste.”

Dr. Tim Rosenkranz is a Lecturer in the Department of Anthropology at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. His research explores the global commodification processes of national destination marketing that turn nations into tourist destinations.

ProfessorChristine Loh, SBS, JP, OBE, Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Mérite, is Chief Development Strategist at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. She was Under Secretary for the Environment in the HKSAR Government (2012-17) and a Member of the Hong Kong Legislative Council (1992-97 and 1998-2000). She has taught a course for five years on non-market risks at the Anderson School of Management, University of California at Los Angeles. She is a published author of many academic and popular works. Prof. Loh is a lawyer by training, and a commodities trader by profession.

References:

1.https://www.socialsamosa.com/2019/09/festive-advertising-importance-of-seasonal-marketingcampaigns/

2.https://www.medianews4u.com/understanding-evolved-marketing-patterns-in-the-post-pandemicfestive-season/

3.https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3163538/coronavirusthousands-flock-popular-hong-kong

• Living abroad has made film director Mabel Cheung ( 張婉婷 ) love Hong Kong more in terms of its hybrid of diverse cultures.

• She is glad to be born in Hong Kong because it has shaped her from the education received and how the city has moulded her to appreciate both the Chinese and Western cultures.

• She will stay on in Hong Kong and watch its future development.

filmmaking is like?

YHK sat down with internationally acclaimed and award-winning Hong Kong film director, Miss Mabel Cheung ( out.

Stepping on the new premises of Ying Wa Girls’ School at Robinson Road, Mid-Levels where our interview was conducted, filmmaker Mabel Cheung was slightly nostalgic about her days of making her docufilm, “To My 19-year-old Self” ( 給十九歲的我 ). The coming-ofage documentary took her team and her almost a decade to finish production afterall, where six students were chronicled in their personal growth and journey in Ying Wa Girls’ School since 2011, from their time at the old campus on the same site, to the temporary site at Sham Shui Po.

“This documentary was supposed to be completed within four years. We started filming the girls when they were in their third year, and the plan was to finish filming by the time they were in Year Six (ie. their final year) where they would then move back to the new campus. That was the original proposal, but of course the school’s reconstruction could not be finished on time, and before we knew it, production schedule had been extended to 10 years instead!”

Other than the production schedule overrunning, Mabel also recounts other funny moments. The students who were conscious of the crew’s constant presence had resulted in the occasional teasing of their peers, would request for the filming to be halted or run away from being recorded at times. Mabel smiled at the recollection of this incident that reflected the innocence of adolescence, something she adds she never had to encounter with professional actors.

Fortunately, the girls got accustomed to such cinéma verité1 techniques in their midst. Says Mabel, “One of them even came to me out of the blue and said, ‘You

have become my confidante and my ‘su-lone’ (‘tree hole’ in Cantonese - syu 6 lung 1 / 樹㝫 )2. I had to keep a straight face as a documentary film director and not to display any signs of judgement. I was also in fact secretly elated, as it also meant that trust had been established between the subjects and me over time.”

A Letter to Mabel’s 19-Year-Old Self

What will Mabel be writing to her younger self, if she could turn back the clock? She laughs when posed with this question. “I will just tell the younger me to be healthy and happy.” She elaborates philosophically about this reply, that being at that age, about to enter university during the 1970s, it was more about basic needs and helping to support the family financially. For her own growing up years, she had to take on a few jobs like teaching English and Chinese to adults; giving tuition; working in factories and even part time as a receptionist to pay for her school fees, ending up being very exhausted every day. But despite trying to juggle school and odd-jobs, Mabel remembers being happy generally, and is thankful to her supportive family and friends who helped her emotionally and financially.

“Filmmaking was full of weird people”

Looking at Mabel’s career track, one could easily assume she has always been keen on learning more about storytelling through filmmaking. After completing her degree reading English and Psychology at the University of Hong Kong, she went on to the University of Bristol in England to pursue an Advanced Diploma in Drama and Visual Arts, and subsequently, an M.F.A. in Film Production from the New York University Graduate Film School (NYU).

Her widowed mother was initially strongly against the idea. “My mother told me the film industry was full of weird people – that the men usually belonged to the underworld and the women were prostitutes, and that educated people shouldn’t enter the film industry. She wanted me to don office attire and work in an office in Central instead.”

“I also never viewed myself as a filmmaker, as all film directors during the Eighties were macho men smoking cigars and looking very cool in their sunglasses, while calling the shots in their big cowboy hats with assistants following them all around. So at that point of time, I wanted to be a journalist instead, as I knew I would never enjoy a nine-to-five job.”

Going to Bristol was like a Bildungsroman3 for her. She was working as a production assistant for the BBC and saw for herself that her colleagues were brilliant men and women from Cambridge and Oxford universities. “They were the cream of the crop; committed and excellent in their work as soundmen; transcribers; so on and on. It was nothing like the prejudice that my mother had!”

From there onwards, the rest is history. Mabel’s first feature was about illegal immigrants in New York City’s Chinatown, where she received a grant from the Shaw Brothers when she was studying for her M.F.A at NYU.

Her encouragement to other budding filmmakers is to try to search inwardly and “find out what is real and what is the truth”, even though there are many sophisticated gadgets and technology like computer graphics, as well as lighter

equipment to make films more accesibly nowadays. “You know the relationship between the Extra-Terrestrial (or simply E.T.) and the little boy in Steven Spielberg’s movie? It is real and viewers can relate to it. So, it is very important to keep yourself like a child and search ‘inside’ to find out what is genuine and what you want to share with people.”

Hong Kong as a great hybrid of diverse cultures

On a final note, Mabel reflects on the revival of the diaspora trend in Hong Kong in recent years, and shares that it is an ongoing phenomenon she often noticed as a child. Personally, she went to Bristol and NYC and had different living experiences, but home is still Hong Kong. “Being away and being abroad makes me realise I really love Hong Kong in terms of the hybrid of diverse cultures. I am glad that I was born here because it forms my whole being, from the education received and how the city has moulded me to appreciate both Chinese and Western cultures. All these factors make it a unique place. My heart shall stay with Hong Kong and I want to stay on to see its future development, and also what I am also able to offer to this city. I don’t want to abandon this city because I love it very much.”

YHK would like to thank Zonta Club of Victoria Hong Kong, Golden Scene Company Limited and Ying Wa Girls’ School for making this interview possible.

Footnotes:

1.Cinéma Verité is a style of documentary filmmaking that combines improvisation with use of the camera to unveil truth or highlight subjects hidden behind reality. It is sometimes called observational cinema.

2.“Tree hole” ( 樹㝫 ) is a colloquial slang commonly used in Hong Kong. It signifies someone who will listen to you when you need, just like a tree hole to which you can tell your secrets freely and at ease. Example: I can always be your “su-lone” if you need somebody to talk to.

3.Coming-of-age transitional phase

Meaningful Gifts and Acts

Oriana Hon

Looking for the perfect something to get for your loved ones? Here are some curated gifts and experiences to check out in Hong Kong. No matter what the occasion is, we hope you will have a more memorable time of bonding and strengthening relationships with all those close to your heart.

Most beauty products contain 80-95% water, but not for Dust & Glow’s series. Water is commonly being used as a ''cheap filler'' in most beauty products. On the contrary, all its products are anhydrous (ie: they don't contain any water). Water and plastic waste are eliminated, creating sensorial formulations for a healthy glow & happy planet! On an average 1 Dust & Glow bottle is the equivalent to 3x bottles of your standard liquid product. They also last up 60 washes. More information at https://dustandglow.com.hk/

LOCOLOCO is named after Local (local), a market event planning organisation that supports handmade and creative design. They hold craft markets and handmade DIY workshops periodically throughout the year. Workshop activities include building terrarium aquariums; learning how to upcycle products for practical daily usage. To find out more: https://www.locoloco.com.hk/ christmasworkshop

Indulge in these freshly made Chinese style daikon cakes and organic produce gift boxes offered by HKFYG’s Organic Farm! All ingredients are thoughtfully sourced, with no MSG, colourings and preservatives added.

For Orders and Enquiry:

• WhatsApp: 2838 4808

• Email: organicfarm@hkfyg.org.hk

Instead of buying more, how about considering fashion swaps organised by ? Redress is the pioneering environmental NGO with a mission to educate and empower consumers and the fashion industry to reduce clothing’s negative environmental impact. Check them out at https://www.redress.com.hk/

• Website: https://www.organicfarm.hk

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ hkfygorganicfarm

Check out and learn more about the history of railway developments in Fanling and other interesting heritage details! Imagine the future Northern Metropolis through a wellthought-out thematic exhibition and tours organised by the HKFYG Leadership Institute. Christmas staycation plans are also in the pipeline at this former Fanling Magistracy! Hit on our website for more updates: LeadershipInstitute.hk

HKFYG Brings On Healing Christmas at Wellness Plus!

All HKFYG colleagues and friends from other non-profit agencies can participate in the Healing Christmas event to held in December 2022. For the second year running, the aim of this programme is to celebrate the true meaning of festivities with our fellow colleagues in a holistic and sustainable lifestyle through the activities, as well as exchanging views on practicing and promoting wellness. Colleagues can also exchange unused personal items as Christmas gifts to reduce holiday waste through various collection points placed at the HKFYG building.

Why not get involved and support some of these good causes listed on HKFYG's Easy Volunteer platform

matches volunteers and service opportunities easily since 2014. Search for suitable volunteer service opportunities, practice the spirit of helping others with actions, and make a significant difference today! Check out for more info: https://easyvolunteer.hk/?

Check out the annual winter sales organised by the HKFYG’s Professional Publications Unit! Other than wonderful reads authored by our SCOLAR recipients from 2021 and 2022, there are also meaningful mementos marked with colloquial witty Hong Kong slangs, if anyone could understand the true humour behind it!

Launching Early 2023!

Youth-led Decarbonisation Platform

To nurture low-carbon living habits among the younger generation, the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG) will launch an online youth-led Decarbonisation Platform for the youth to record their daily carbon reduction actions and trade them for awards.

More than that, the platform will display the users’ accumulated carbon reduction, which help users to have a more solid concept of how their daily actions have helped alleviate climate change. The platform also explains reasons why these daily actions can

reduce carbon emission, so that young people have a better understanding on low-carbon living, and know how to make more environmentally friendly choices in their daily lives.

For further enquiries, pls contact: HKFYG Sustainability Unit Tel: 37557110

Email: sst@hkfyg.org.hk.

Environmental Protection is Not Just about Recycling

protection, recycling

environmental

What is recycling?

Recycling refers to the process of reprocessing and converting waste materials into new and useful products or materials. Recycling is known as an environmentally friendly practice to reduce the amount of municipal waste and raw materials exploitation. Nowadays, people are encouraged to practice waste separation and increase recycling rate.

Recycling is good, but is not the perfect answer to fix environmental problems

Although recycling is a good practice to help alleviate solid waste problems and overexploitation of resources, it is not the perfect answer to solve environmental problems.

Recycling is not magic; it doesn’t turn waste into useable materials with no time and effort. The whole recycling process, includes collecting, transporting, handling, storing, disassembling, dismantling, sorting, separating, shredding, processing, remanufacturing, and so on. The whole process also consists of water and energy consumption, known as greenhouse gases (GHGs) emission. Even though the energy and resources used in recycling is still much less than that of producing products from virgin materials, the consumption and emission in the recycling process must not be ignored.

More than that, before we put our recyclables into recycling bins, most of the time we need to rinse and clean them with water, some people may even use a few pieces of paper towels to dry the recyclables, which means water consumption and more waste could be generated when we practice recycling.

Last but not least, recycling reduces our sense of guilt of

producing waste. When we put waste into recycling bins, it gives us the false impression that we are practising environmental-friendly behaviour rather than producing waste. And it easily becomes an excuse for us to think it is okay to consume and dispose single-use plastics and other recyclables as long as we recycle them, neglecting all the energy consumption and GHGs emission being generated throughout the recycling process.

This article is not advocating that recycling is bad and wasteful, the level of energy and water consumption, also the GHGs emission of recycling is still much lower than that of manufacturing products from virgin materials. This article is to remind readers not to treat recycling as the perfect answer to fixing environmental problems. There are better ways to protect our environment.

Reduce from source

To reduce the amount of solid waste and exploitation of resources, the best way is to reduce from source, which means eliminating the waste even before it is created. To practice reduce from source, we can:

• Reduce the use of single-use plastics

• Purchase products with less packaging

• If you bought products which you found not suitable to you, try to ask if your friends need it before throwing away

• Donate the old products (e.g. clothings, toys) to someone in need rather than disposing it

• Do upcycling to give waste materials a new life

References:

https://www.csagroup.org/article/research/defining-recycling-in-the-context-of-plastics/ https://greenblue.org/water-use-as-a-result-of-recycling-is-it-worth-it/ https://www.treehugger.com/does-recycling-waste-precious-water-4858191

Heavenly Chwang

When it comes to the topic of environmental

would probably be the first thing that comes to our minds. On the flipside,

protection is way more than recycling, with its downsides that we must not neglect.

How to Promote Social Mobility Overview and main findings

The Home and Youth Affair Bureau (HYAB) will be releasing its first blueprint for youth development1 at the end of 2022. YHK interviewed MWYO, an independent think tank in Hong Kong and discussed feasible possibilities of giving Hong Kong youth opportunities for social mobility.2

What new opportunities that might improve social mobility do young people most want and which among these are most feasible?

There are various dimensions when examining the issue of youth upward mobility, such as the quality and equity of education, accessibility to healthcare and work opportunities and wages. From a work perspective, many of the 61 Hong Kong youth interviewed in our report mentioned that a diversified development of the economic structure would be crucial to their upward mobility.

The youth with different talents and interests can thus reach their full potential and develop the career of their respective choices. However, despite the recent increasingly emphasis on emerging industries like innovation & technology and culture & creativity, our economy is still very much dependent on the traditional pillar industries.

This has led to many youth employment issues, including limited career development pathways, excess supply of highly educated labour and inadequate supply of high-skilled jobs, as well as increasingly poor working opportunities with high academic qualifications and job mismatching.

Therefore, our report strongly recommends the government to formulate an emerging industries’ development strategy, whereby strategic industries with comparative advantage for Hong Kong could develop under a definite direction with adequate support and foster synergy.

More specifically, the main functions of this strategy include:

• identifying the strategic industries vital to enhancing the competitiveness of Hong Kong and the national development goals; • examining the markets and needs of these industries;

• fostering synergy among these industries

and outlining the direction, goals and development plans for each industry; and • devising specific measures and strategies to nurture talents.

Furthermore, the government should seize the opportunities within the development of the Greater Bay Area; the vision and positioning of Hong Kong offered in the National 14th Five-Year Plan to promote economic diversification, thereby constructing a healthy job market for young people and enhancing their upward mobility.

Can you tell us what was the response of the young people on the strengthening of mental health education with a regular review of the effectiveness of emotional and resilient education in schools’, also polled for their contribution of views?

Our report did not poll parents. Nevertheless, the 61 youth interviewed are looking forward to the policy recommendations of our study. Regarding mental health education in schools, the respondents indicated that a comprehensive emotional education was absent in schools’ curricula. Some schools adopt a problem-based approach to their emotional complications, instead of a preventative approach. Some even ignore the students’ needs and expect parents to tackle the issue themselves.

As a result, many students do not have sufficient mental health literacy to identify and handle their problems and / or seek professional advice. Despite helpful workshops on emotional education sporadically provided by NGOs, the number of beneficiaries is limited, owing to the lack of financial and human resources. Therefore, comprehensive emotional and resilience education in schools is much needed.

The youth interviewed also stressed that parents should play a pivotal role in their mental health, especially when schools were closed and unable to offer support during the pandemic.

Unfortunately, many parents in Hong Kong have been encountering immense pressure due to the pandemic and depressing social sentiments since 2019. Their negative emotions often indirectly create adverse impacts on the mental health of their children.

Although the Education Bureau has provided relevant materials for parent education via channels such as www. mentalhealth.edb.gov.hk, all interviewees stated that their parents had no idea about the information made available by the Hong Kong government. Thus, a comprehensive parent education curriculum framework for secondary and primary schools is also necessary. It should include mental health components and a strategy to reach out to more parents.

How strong would you say on a 1-5 scale was the support was among your respondents for strengthening teaching resources for non-Chinese speaking students and professional training courses for improved teaching of Chinese as a Second Language Learning Framework? This is in relation to cultural inclusion as another action suggestion listed in your report (pages 7 to 9).

It would be on a scale of 4 out of 5. The ethnic minority students interviewed revealed that the current Chinese language education receiving in schools failed to address their needs because of their considerable learning differences. Some considered that the content was too simple, resulting in their inability to speak and write Chinese fluently. In fact, many ethnic minority students rely on their daily activities to learn Chinese, such as watching local movies and interacting with Chinese friends. Their Chinese proficiency would be much lower for those studying in schools which do not have Chinese-speaking students. However, all ethnic minority respondents agreed that Chinese proficiency was essential to their career development and integration into the Hong Kong community.

References:

1

https://mwyo.org/en/future_hk_details.php?id=139&page=1

2 https://mwyo.org/en/LSwXLX

https://www.ydc.gov.hk/files/pressroom/public_engagement_report_en.pdf

Kudos to All “Easy Volunteer” Volunteer Service Award Recipients!

Morethan 3,300 individual volunteers as well as about 50 groups were given individual and group awards at the HKFYG’s inaugural "Easy Volunteer" Volunteer Service Award. YHK has the details as follow.

Results of the first HKFYG’s “"Easy Volunteer" Volunteer Service Award for 2021 have been announced! After a stringent process of shortlisting and selection, the individual volunteers and organisations were identified and acknowledged for going the extra mile with their spirit of volunteerism.

Executive Director of the HKFYG, Mr. Andy Ho thanked the award-winning volunteers and organisations for being committed with their perseverance and consistent efforts with innovative ways of community engagement despite of the epidemic.

Mr. Ho also took the opportunity to launch another HKFYG new project, named “Stepping Forward with Commitment to Hong Kong”. He urged the Hong Kong youth present to keep actively participate in social services and contribute to the community collectively.

The Education University of Hong Kong

The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) won the Gold Award for Volunteer Service (Groups) 2021 in the Volunteer Commendation for 2021. Mr. Leung Sai Kit, Assistant Director of Student Affairs, said that EdUHK has always been supportive of their students’ community service efforts. Volunteerism is also inculcated as part of the training for its leaders who volunteer, so that students can be part of the society with a people-oriented spirit.

Mr. Teddy Leung, Student Development Manager also added that the epidemic has disrupted their initial volunteer service plan. Therefore, the EdUHK volunteer team has to be creative and transformed some of the physical volunteer activities to be held online instead, such as the online companion reading services.

Individual Awardee

Holy Trinity College

Shak Chung Shan Memorial Catholic Primary School Parent-Teacher Association

Another gold award-winning organisation is the Shak Chung Shan Memorial Catholic Primary School’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA). Four volunteer representatives: Ms. Liu Lai Ling; Ms. Long Qiuxia; Ms. Wang Shiming, and Ms. Zhang Yingyi, believe that volunteer activities can help promote and strengthen parent-child relationships. Parents like them have the responsibility to let their children understand the importance of volunteering in the service, such as the differences between volunteers and ordinary participants, which in turn nurture responsibility.The spirit of volunteerism can gradually become integrated to their daily lives. A very good example was their children once encountered an elderly person who fell while outdoors. They took the initiative to care for the elderly person and provided support. Such helpfulness brings the parentchild closer and builds shared goals and beliefs.

Three key members of the volunteer team from the Sham Shui Po district, Huang Shuting, Liu Jiayan and Wu Hanrong, won the individual volunteer award in this recognition scheme. They believe that it has become very difficult to participate in volunteer services during the epidemic. As volunteer leaders in the school, they are also responsible for organising volunteer services for teachers and students. They have to negotiate with external organisations about the service collaboration and regularly report the progress of the work to teachers. Although the activities of the volunteer team have been postponed countless times, they never gave up and still actively searched for various service opportunities for students in the past year, including responding to the poster design competition of external groups, and promoting community care and peace to the students in the school. The volunteer team also regularly sends members to support the online homework-asking activity of “Easy Volunteer” tutoring matching feature, providing homework counseling services for primary and secondary school students online, and helping to promote the service to needy families in the district.

About “Easy Volunteer” Volunteer Service Award

Results of the "Easy Volunteer" Volunteer Service Award 2021 and the 2022 application arrangements have been uploaded to https://yvn.hkfyg.org.hk/ volunteeraward/.

To get the latest volunteer service information, please go to “Easy Volunteer” to register and search for volunteer service opportunities in various districts at easyvolunteer.hk. Enquiries: easyvolunteer@hkfyg.org.hk

Running On a High Note

rom strangers to friends – this is the kind of heartwarming tale that is flourishing in the Run 21 challenge taking place for the second year. And there’s even a specially composed song to commemorate this new friendship! YHK spoke to 13 youth and their

The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG) Run 21 challenge is back with a bang this year end! 13 youth who did not originally know one another, only have one mission in mind when they signed up for this long-distance run, ie. completing a total distance of 123 kilometers to raise funds for subsequent youth sports development organised by the Federation.

These participants comprise of students and working professionals aged between 16 and 24 years old. With national trail runner, Mr. Wong Ho-Chung roped in as the running consultant this year, the youth would have to cover 21 destinations across Hong Kong, where these 21 touchpoints are actually the HKFYG’s Youth S.P.O.T locations. Locations include Tsuen Wan, Tuen Mun, Tin Shui Wai, Fanling, Tai Po, Sha Tin, and then to Lok Fu, Hung Hom, Hong Kong Island East and other places in Kowloon, and finally ends at Tseung Kwan O, with a total distance of 123 kilometers completed.

Mr. Wong further explained unlike last year, this year’s training was divided into three phases, from the initial training of personal discipline, speed and physical strength; and then learning to run long courses, and finally to the third stage of trying to run the entire 123 kilometers. He was pleased to observe some of the younger participants who ran as

as a “supporter” and realized he was physically fit to complete the run challenge last year. He decided to sign up as a participant after hitting the minimum age requirement of 16 years old. Terry firmly believes running with a group is always more fun and endurable, compared to running alone.

21-year-old Amy Tsang feels that life. She puts two of her interests, compose an original song to express her heartfelt sentiments and gratitude for this great experience. The entire team sang with

More About Run 21

HKFYG launched the inaugural Run 21 challenge in 2021, to great reception from our stakeholders and participants. It was rehashed this year again, starting at 00:00 hour on 3 December 2022. Funds raised will be channeld to youth sport development, so that more youth in the community will also have the opportunities to participate in sports training and competitions. For details, please visit the donation website giving.hkfyg.org.hk.

covering Hong Kong Island East; New Territories East, to name a few. I also learnt about local food specialties

Launch of “With All Our Might!” Brand New Web Series

Telemedicine

technologies have been beneficial in the screening, diagnosis, management, treatment and long-term follow-up of a series of chronic diseases in the WHO European Region1. Four professionals discussed this trending topic with Dr. Lam Chingchoi, member of the Executive Council of the HKSAR Government.

M21 has launched a brand-new online series entitled “With All Our Might!”

Kickstarting the first episode were four panelists delving on the topic of telemedicine, shedding different perspectives on the feasibility of medical-social collaboration; ways to promote youth participation and employment, and feasible solutions for consideration. Helming the discussion in this first episode is Dr. Lam Ching-choi, member of the Executive Council of the HKSAR Government. The panelists included dental undergraduate Annette Ng; medtech startup founder Jay Chen; healthcare frontline specialist Philip Ma and management trainee James Shi.

Telemedicine’s earlier trials went as far back as ten years ago. Industry experts in the medical field have long aspired to deliver more timely diagnosis and treatment to patients beyond physical geographical boundaries.

According to data from the Hospital Authority in Hong Kong, telemedicine services were launched in Hong Kong at the end of 2019. About 45,000 people have benefited from video consultations and outreach services so far, half of whom are COVID-19 patients.

Dr. Lam Ching-choi further shared that he had advocated medical institutions’ cooperation to promote primary healthcare many years ago, but it did not lead to fruition. He believed medical staff, social workers and pharmacists can create cross-professional integration, and the HKSAR Government should also be open to the idea of crossdepartmental collaboration, so as to expedite the traction rate. He also suggested adopting an “easy-first-difficultlater” strategy in the telemedicine development, which includes allowing nurses or geriatric care workers to commence, so that during their primary visits doctors

have prior information about their patients’ conditions and medical progress, before transiting gradually to resolve telemedicine regulations and infrastructure issues.

About

web series

This project is part of the Stepping Forward with Commitment to Hong Kong initiative. The Stepping Forward with Commitment to Hong Kong initiative was launched in the Federation in June 2022, with the aim of garnering participation from more than 20,000 youth on “community building”, “economic development” and “Greater Bay Area development” to work in unison to create a new era for Hong Kong. “With All Our Might!” 《傾．盡全力》is one of the focus projects of Stepping Forward with Commitment to Hong Kong . Five thematic episodes have been scheduled for release. To watch the programme, please visit the website m21.hk.

The inaugural episode ended with the four youth panelists offering suggestions to new job creation in the telemedicine field; as well as adopting savvy tech skills that youth could bring to the table, bridging the gap between the elderly and available health services through telemedicine. Reference: 1https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/31-10-2022-telemedicine-has-clear-

More Youth Choose Flexible Employment

than 100 freelancing youth participated in the “Slash Expo” recently. Read more to find out more about this flexible employment option for Hong Kong youth.

With the change of employment patterns, more Hong Kong youth are increasingly choosing flexible employment, transiting from traditional “wage workers” to freelancers or “slashers” with multiple gigs, hoping to cultivate diverse career development and experience.

This was evident from the successful turnout at the “Slash Expo” held in September 2022, where veteran “slashers” from different fields were invited to showcase their personal expertise, works and talent to share with various representatives from schools, businesses and social welfare organisations. The event attracted nearly 100 slash youth exhibitors, and more than 110 institutional representatives also registered to attend.

Executive Director of the HKFYG, Mr. Andy Ho said this was a positive sign to see support from both the industry

players and the “slashers”. He also added such flexible employment was becoming more popular, as Hong Kong youth could choose juggling multiple gigs and have better control of their time. At the same time, they could balance their lives and personal interests, while pursuing such freelancing opportunities to progress professionally.

To catch on this rising trend, the Youth Employment Network (YEN) of the HKFYG established “SLASH POINT” as a one-stop information platform providing the talent pool training and workshops to help youth improve their skills, as well as secure gig opportunities. The Project is sponsored by JP Morgan. Mr. Ho expressed deepfelt gratitude to corporate partners like JP Morgan for coming onboard to extend such opportunities to Hong Kong youth.

More

Passing the Editorial Baton Thank You, Elaine!

With

over 60 years of history, many colleagues at HKFYG have been pivotal to its success. YHK reminisced with Elaine Morgan in this special tribute, the recently retired first editor of the magazine.

Elaine Morgan officially stepped down from HKFYG during the summer of 2022 having contributed to the Federation as an editor for a good 18 years. Born in Chester, England, Elaine returned to her birthplace, after calling Hong Kong her home for more than 30 years.

Elaine’s wish to work abroad began in childhood but was boosted by her lifelong partner, Stephen who moved to Hong Kong first. Elaine joined him on Christmas Eve 1974, 48 years ago.

She began work at the University of Hong Kong’s library and 15 years of experience there gave her research skills that came in useful later. In 1989, Stephen decided it was “time for a new adventure”. And off they went, sailing long-distance, short-handed, writing about their time at sea on that wonderful voyage.

Nevertheless, a stable income was missing, and more importantly, Elaine missed her friends and the community in Hong Kong. She decided to return to Hong Kong and joined the Federation full-time in 2004.

Elaine recalls happy days working with the Partnership team in the cramped former Wanchai office before moving to the current headquarters in North Point. Starting work on the magazine was challenging. Much had to be taken into consideration. Elaine recalls the hard work involved and thanks the many colleagues involved. She remembers

especially the many walks and discussions with Lakshmi Jacota, YHK’s editorial Vice Chair, and collaboration with Ada Chau, Managing Editor. Ada’s assistance as an informal interpreter with stakeholders was crucial.

In her 18 years of holding the fort, there were many heartwarming, memorable moments. Social work colleagues shared news of a young boy who lived in a treehouse with his mother. Visiting them was an amazing experience that featured in an early issue of YHK. Colleagues involved in outreach to youth arranged a glimpse of prison life and the realities of life behind bars for young people were reported in the magazine too.

Elaine says how grateful she is for such opportunities. They revealed another side of Hong Kong which she felt privileged to see. Her sincere wish for YHK’s future is that it continues to dig deeply into issues faced by Hong Kong youth as its core objective and purpose.

Currently working with Stephen on a new book about sailing, Elaine also volunteers for a charity that supports homeless people and refugees in Chester. She stays fit and healthy and looks forward to more splendid adventures in future, as well as revisiting Hong Kong one day.

Oriana Hon

Office and Unit List

HKFYG Website: hkfyg.org.hk M21 Multimedia Web: M21.hk

Head Office 2527 2448hq@hkfyg.org.hk

Youth S.P.O.Ts

Youth S.P.O.T. 21 3755 7021spot21@hkfyg.org.hk

Heng Fa Chuen Youth S.P.O.T. 2557 0142 hfc@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Shaukiwan Youth S.P.O.T.2885 9353sw@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Hung Hom Youth S.P.O.T.2774 5300hhit@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Farm Road Youth S.P.O.T.2715 0424fr@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Wang Tau Hom Youth S.P.O.T. 2337 7189wth@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Ping Shek Youth S.P.O.T.2325 2383ps@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Tseung Kwan O Youth S.P.O.T. 2623 3121tkoit@hkfyg.org.hk

LOHAS Youth S.P.O.T. 2702 2202ls@hkfyg.org.hk

Felix Wong Youth S.P.O.T. 2706 2638fw@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Verbena Youth S.P.O.T.2997 0321vb@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Jat Min Youth S.P.O.T.2647 0744jm@hkfyg.org.hk

Lung Hang Youth S.P.O.T. 2698 5565lh@hkfyg.org.hk

Tai Po Youth S.P.O.T. 2656 3257tp@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Cheung Wah Youth S.P.O.T.2669 9111chw@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Kwai Fong Youth S.P.O.T.2423 1366 kfit@hkfyg.org.hk

Tsuen Wan Youth S.P.O.T. 2413 6669tw@hkfyg.org.hk

Tsuen King Youth S.P.O.T. 2498 3333tk@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Kin Sang Youth S.P.O.T. 2467 7933ks@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Tin Yiu Youth S.P.O.T.2445 4868ty@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Tin Yuet Youth S.P.O.T.2445 5777tyt@hkfyg.org.hk

Hung Shui Kiu Youth S.P.O.T. 2448 7474hsk@hkfyg.org.hk

M21 Multimedia Services

Jockey Club Media 21 3979 0000enquiry@m21.hk

Employment Services

Youth Employment Network 3113 7999yen@hkfyg.org.hk

Social Innovation and Youth Business Unit 3595 0945sic@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Social Innovation Centre3595 0945sic@hkfyg.org.hk

Youth Business Hong Kong 3595 0945ybhk@hkfyg.org.hk

Leadership Training

The HKFYG Leadership Institute 2169 0255info@leadershipinstitute.hk

Leadership 21 2169 0255 leadership21@hkfyg.org.hk

Volunteer Services

Membership and Volunteer Unit 3755 7220membership@hkfyg.org.hk

Youth Volunteer Network 3755 7220yvn@hkfyg.org,hk

Open Up Volunteer Centre Website: www.openup.hk

Youth at Risk Services

Youth Crime Prevention Centre 8100 9669ycpc@hkfyg.org.hk

Student Guidance Team (Kindergarten)2395 0162sgt@hkfyg.org.hk

Media Counselling Centre 2788 3433mcc@hkfyg.org.hk

Media Counselling Centre (Youthline)2777 8899

Media Counselling Centre (Open Up)Website: www.openup.hk

Media Counselling Centre (uTouch)2788 3444utouch@hkfyg.org.hk

Education Services

Education Services Unit 3755 7107education@hkfyg.org.hk

Ching Lok Kindergarten/ Ching Lok Nursery 2886 8856cl-swh@hkfyg.org.hk

Ching Lok Kindergarten (Yaumatei) / Ching Lok Nursery (Yaumatei) 2385 6868cl-ymt@hkfyg.org.hk

KK Cheng Kindergarten 2385 2622kkc@hkfyg.org.hk

Lee Shau Kee Primary School 2448 1011lskps@hkfyg.org.hk Lee Shau Kee College 2146 1128hlc@hlc.edu.hk

Continuous Learning Centre 2130 4000clc@hkfyg.org.hk

Living Life Academy 2130 4000lla@hkfyg.org.hk

Parenting Services

Parent Support Network 2402 9230psn@hkfyg.org.hk

Family Life Education Unit (Eastern/Wanchai District) 2567 5730psn-ew@hkfyg.org.hk

Family Life Education Unit (Kowloon City District) 2774 3083psn-knc@hkfyg.org.hk

Family Life Education Unit (Tai Po/North District) 2658 3097psn-tpn@hkfyg.org.hk

Family Life Education Unit (Tsuen Wan/Kwai Tsing District) 2490 2662psn-twkt@hkfyg.org.hk

Creativity Education and Youth Exchange

Creative Education Unit 2561 6149ce@hkfyg.org.hk Centre for Creative Science and Technology 2561 6149ce@hkfyg.org.hk

Youth Exchange Unit 3586 8448ye@hkfyg.org.hk Mainland Affairs Office 3705 1501mao@hkfyg.org.hk

Zhongshan Sanxiang Youth Training Centre 3586 8448ye@hkfyg.org.hk

Leisure, Cultural & Sports Services

Cultural Services Unit 2395 5753 csu@hkfyg.org.hk

Community Team Sports Office 3611 6670cts@hkfyg.org.hk

Tsuen Wan Indoor Sports Centre 2413 6669twisc@hkfyg.org.hk

Camps Unit 2395 5759camp@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Sai Kung Outdoor Training Camp 2792 2727otc@hkfyg.org.hk

Lamma Youth Camp 2982 1929lyc@hkfyg.org.hk

Stanley Outdoor Training Camp 2813 8886s@hkfyg.org.hk

Tai Mei Tuk Outdoor Activities Centre2664 4686tmt@hkfyg.org.hk

The HKFYG Leadership Institute – Lodge2169 0255info@leadershipinstitute.hk

Research and Publications

Youth Research Centre 3755 7022yr@hkfyg.org.hk

Professional Publications Unit 3755 7108cps@hkfyg.org.hk

Special Services

Tsuen Wan and Kwai Chung

Outreaching Social Work Team 2487 6151osw-tk1@hkfyg.org.hk

The HKFYG Youth Hostel PH2 2656 0009ph2@hkfyg.org.hk

Sai Kung and Wong Tai Sin

Outreaching Social Work Team 2701 8866 osw-skwts@hkfyg.org.hk

Extended Service for Young Night Drifters 2702 2202ynd@hkfyg.org.hk

Youth Support Scheme 2396 4711yss@hkfyg.org.hk

Anti-drug Service 2473 0133ad@hkfyg.org.hk

Counselling Services

Clinical Psychology Unit 3755 7021wp@hkfyg.org.hk

Wellness PLUS (Hong Kong) 3755 7021wp@hkfyg.org.hk

Wellness PLUS (Kowloon) 3422 3161 wmc@hkfyg.org.hk

Wellness PLUS (New Territories West)3755 7021wp@hkfyg.org.hk

Wellness PLUS (New Territories East)3755 7021wp@hkfyg.org.hk

Jockey Club Student Support Centre3422 3161ssc@hkfyg.org.hk

School Social Work Unit 2395 0161ssw@hkfyg.org.hk

Student Guidance Team (Primary School)2395 0162sgt@hkfyg.org.hk

WL Residence 2915 5532wlr@hkfyg.org.hk

Café 21 3188 5792cafe21@hkfyg.org.hk

PH3 5933 6323ph3@hkfyg.org.hk

Organic Farm 2838 4808organicfarm@hkfyg.org.hk

Hydroponic Farm 9333 2551hf@hkfyg.org.hk

The Dragon Foundation Secretariat2811 2779 info@dragonfoundation.net

Development and Support Partnership and Resource Development Office 3755 7103partnership@hkfyg.org.hk

Corporate Planning and Staff Training Unit 3755 7088td@hkfyg.org.hk ; cp@hkfyg.org.hk

Corporate Communications Office 3755 7022cco@hkfyg.org.hk

Sustainability Unit 3755 7110sst@hkfyg.org.hk

User Experience Unit 3905 1546ue@hkfyg.org.hk

HKFYG Building Management Unit3755 7098bm@hkfyg.org.hk