Fostering Community Impact

at the Rotary District Community Service Seminar RY 2024-25

As one of the annual highlights organized by the District Community Service Committee on 10 August, 2024, it was profoundly encouraging to witness over 100 Rotarians and guests together to learn and collaborate on the future of community services in Hong Kong.

This meaningful event brought together perspectives from Rotary, corporations, and NGOs, allowing us to collectively shape the path forward.

The keynote address by Ms. Melissa Pang, BBS MH JP from the Agency for Volunteer Service, provided invaluable insights on the evolving landscape of community service.

The panel discussion, moderated by seasoned HR professional P Elsie Yung, featured insightful contributions from PDG Peter Wan (Vice-chairman of Heep Hong Society), Matthew Kwok (co-founder of the NGO “Just Feel”), and Rotarian Robert Ip (Founder of Social Enterprise “i-Transform Station”, Konica Minolta). 

Audiences found it extremely useful by connecting with best practices and resources from both corporate and the government in curating impactful and innovative service projects，and more importantly, to avoid possible pitfalls.

Their diverse experiences sparked thought-provoking conversations on leveraging cross-sector partnerships. Panelists shared their own experience to demonstrate key factors that motivate corporate and NGO partners to engage in community service projects with organizations like Rotary. It has set the stage by understanding different perspectives on motivations and incentives.

One of the highlights was the showcase of 13 impactful and sustainable project ideas during the panel discussion session.

These innovative proposals from youth to the environment, from mental health to physical health, etc hold the promise of making a lasting difference in our community. 

Rotary leaders are excited about the upcoming launch of Service Connect, which will empower Rotary clubs to access and mobilize resources more effectively under DG Nigel.

This event has reinforced the belief of the attending Rotarian leaders in the power of collective action and the transformative potential of community service.

It is also encouraging that over 98% of the participants agreed that all three sections of the seminars including the keynotes sharing, panel discussion as well as the breakout session shared great ideas and strategies.

Moreover, participants were convinced and would love to support the “Service-Connect” initiatives moving forward.

The success of the seminar was attributed to the leadership and dedication of PDG Eugene, Seminar Chair IPP Priscilla Law, and the magical organizing committee team of DS Colin Chau, PP Menza Chu , Rtn Elaine, P Els Yung, PP Daniel Lo, PP Linda, and the two emcees Helen and DDS Dennis. Their tireless efforts have created a platform for meaningful exchange and collaboration.

Looking forward to continuing this momentum and working alongside fellow Rotarians and community partners to create a more vibrant and inclusive Hong Kong.