With the arrival of a new year, the YMCA of Hong Kong & Campus YMCA of Hong Kong organized a big youth symposium. The theme of the symposium was Transformation –Youth’s Convergence and Determination to transform the World.
With the aim to share our vision of youth empowerment, the youth symposium was a response to the NEW WAY strategy and the change model (Space – Transformation – Impact)
Over 80 international and 120 local youth delegates and more than 100 volunteers joined the 6-day symposium. There were various kinds of activities conducted throughout the symposium, ranging from plenary speeches, workshops on various themes like youth movements and arts, experiential workshops, community visits and social gatherings. Seeing and experiencing “spaces” like the Campus YMCA youth club or other community spaces, the participants were transformed: Both local and non-local delegates were exposed to the dynamics and the culture of Hong Kong, engaged in discussions around development/social issues, and developed plans for future projects.
Besides the New Year’s celebration, one highlight of the event was the long table dinner held in the local district of Sham Shui Po. Over 500 participants, including the local residents, ethnic minorities, elderly and the delegates enjoyed the Chinese punchoi dinner together, all at the same time. Some delegates volunteered to show performances from their countries.
The symposium ended with the presentation of the event’s declaration at the closing ceremony with an overwhelming positive feedback from the participants. Next, the YMCA of Hong-Kong is planning a one-day Green event in April to gather youth and come up with environmental actions. It will be a prelude to the World Challenge on June 6th!
Get to know more about the event at: https://www.facebook.com/ymca.iys