Passing the Editorial Baton Thank You, Elaine!

Passing the Editorial Baton

Thank You, Elaine! Oriana Hon

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.