On September 10, our Club welcomed Professor Heiwai Tang of HKU Business School, who spoke about his recent research on “Hong Kong’s Next Growth Pathway.” Professor Tang shared his analysis of the challenges facing Hong Kong as well as the opportunities available as the city considers its future economic development. His insightful presentation gave members much food for thought and enhanced their understanding of the forces that could shape Hong Kong’s next phase of growth. Our Club was also delighted to welcome two visiting Rotarians: Past District Governor Kenneth Wong of Rotary Club of Tai Po and Immediate Past President Inez Wu of Rotary Club of Central. Their presence added to an engaging dinner meeting filled with learning, discussion and fellowship.
On September 5, President Grace and Jerry, Past Presidents Eddie, Samuel and Lily, and Rotarian Joanna took part in a special Mid-Autumn Festival gesture for the volunteers of Yuk Chi Resource Centre. Arranged by Rotarian Joanna, dozens of boxes of mooncakes were delivered to the Centre as gifts for its volunteers, expressing our Club’s appreciation for their dedication and hard work throughout the year. The mooncakes were sourced from Holy Cafe, our long-term service partner, adding another meaningful connection to this simple act of thanks. Our Club has enjoyed a long relationship with Yuk Chi, and the occasion was a warm reminder that service is also about recognizing those who quietly give their time and effort to others. With the Mid-Autumn Festival approaching, the mooncakes offered a timely way to say thank you and share some festive cheer with the volunteers.
On August 27, our Club welcomed District Governor Jimmy Lau for his official visit. Before our regular meeting at 1pm, District Governor Jimmy met with our Club’s Board of Directors for an exchange on the Club’s activities and plans for the Rotary Year. We also welcomed Assistant Governor Nancy Yee of Rotary Club of Hong Kong Island East and District Secretary Brian Cheung of Rotary Club of Hong Kong Fairview. During the regular meeting, District Governor Jimmy shared his vision and priorities for our District and relayed the goals set by Rotary International President Yinka Babalola. His sharing gave members a better understanding of the direction of Rotary for the year ahead and how our Club can contribute towards these broader goals. The visit was also a wonderful occasion for fellowship. Members enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with District Governor Jimmy, exchange ideas, and share a good time together. It was an engaging and enjoyable meeting that strengthened the connection between our Club and our District.
On August 22, many members and spouses gathered for our Club’s August Fellowship Dinner, enjoying a fun-filled evening of friendship, laughter, and celebration. A highlight of the evening was celebrating together with our August birthday boys and girls. With members and their spouses joining the festivities, the dinner provided a wonderful opportunity to relax, catch up with old friends, and enjoy one another’s company outside our regular meetings and service activities. Special thanks went to Past President Ricky for organizing the gathering and putting together such an enjoyable evening. The cheerful atmosphere and good company made it a memorable night and another wonderful celebration of fellowship within our Club.
On August 15, President Grace and Past President Angela attended our District’s Vibrant Workshop, a collaborative initiative organized by the District Membership, Public Image and Community Service Committees. The workshop brought together three important aspects of Rotary development—growing and engaging membership, strengthening Rotary’s public image, and creating meaningful service in the community. By approaching these areas together, the workshop encouraged Rotarians to consider how they complement one another in building stronger and more vibrant clubs. It was a useful opportunity for President Grace and Past President Angela to exchange ideas with fellow Rotarians from across our District and bring home fresh perspectives for our Club.
On August 13, members of our Club welcomed 3 Rotaractors from Rotaract Club of Victoria, who spoke on the topic “Beyond the Headlines: A Rotaract Service Journey with the Rohingya Refugees in Malaysia.” During the meeting, the Rotaractors shared their experience serving the Rohingya refugee community in Malaysia, offering members a perspective that went beyond what is commonly encountered through news reports. Through their personal service journey, members learned more about the people and communities behind the headlines, as well as the value of direct engagement and service. It was also a special reunion for the Rotaractors as our Immediate Past President David was a Rotaractor and Past President of Rotaract Club of Victoria.
On August 8, President Grace and Past Presidents Dora, Lily and Jason joined fellow Rotarians from other Area 3 clubs for a blood donation day. The event brought members from across Area 3 together in support of a simple but important act of service. By donating blood and encouraging greater awareness of the continuing need for blood donors, participating Rotarians demonstrated how individuals can make a direct and meaningful contribution to the community. It was also a wonderful opportunity for fellowship among Area 3 clubs, with Rotarians coming together not only in friendship but also with a shared commitment to serving others. The day was a meaningful reminder that even a small act can help make a difference and, quite literally, save lives.
On August 7, President Grace and Past Presidents Eddie, WT and Eliza attended our District’s Preserve Planet Earth (PPE) Seminar. The seminar brought together speakers who shared up-to-date information on environmental issues and sustainability, giving participants an opportunity to learn more about the challenges facing the environment and the ways in which communities can respond. The presentations also provided useful perspectives for Rotarians as they consider how environmental awareness and sustainable practices can be incorporated into Rotary service. It was an informative and worthwhile seminar, allowing members of our Club to keep abreast of current environmental topics while exchanging ideas with fellow Rotarians from across our District.
On July 26, President Grace and Past Presidents Angela and Lily attended the Suicide Prevention Services Charity Concert in support of the important work of Suicide Prevention Services (SPS). The occasion was particularly meaningful to members of our Club as Past President Lily works with SPS. President Grace and Past President Angela joined her at the concert to show their support while also enjoying an evening of music together. Members were lucky because typhoon signal was lifted just before the concert, enabling to go ahead with clearing skies. Beyond supporting a worthy cause, the concert provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship outside our regular Club activities. It was an enjoyable and meaningful evening, bringing together friendship, music, and support for an organization serving the community.
On July 23, members of our Club welcomed Mr. Jeff Tam of the Vocational Training Council, who gave a talk on the Rotary Hong Kong Vocational Scholarship and its impact on young people pursuing vocational education. The scholarship scheme was established during Past Governor Belinda’s term as District Governor in 2014–2015. Since its inception, hundreds of students have benefited from the program, receiving support to further their studies and develop the skills needed for their chosen professions. Adding a personal dimension to the presentation, one of the scholarship recipients joined the meeting and shared his own study experience and how he had benefited from the scholarship. His sharing gave members a first-hand perspective on the meaningful difference the program has made to individual students. The meeting was a timely reminder of Rotary’s longstanding commitment to education and vocational development, and how sustained support over the years can create opportunities for generations of young people.