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The results of the May 2025 International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP) were released on Sunday, July 6, revealing another year of stellar performances by Hong Kong students.
While 202,103 students worldwide sat the exams with a global average score of 30.58, Hong Kong scholars significantly surpassed this with an impressive average of 36.72. Over 30 Hong Kong students earned the maximum score of 45, placing them among global top achievers (out of 2,630 total number of candidates).
“I’m inspired by the dedication, resilience, and compassion shown by IB students during such a complex time in the world. As IB graduates move forward—into higher education, careers, or service to their communities—they carry with them the competencies, values, and global mindset needed to thrive and make a meaningful difference.” Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General of the International Baccalaureate, said in a statement.
“IB graduates leave not only with knowledge, but also with the perspective and purpose to lead, serve, and shape a better world. We are proud of who they are and the impact they’re already making,” he added.
Photo by English Schools Foundation (ESF)
The English Schools Foundation (ESF) reported 15 perfect scorers among its 936 candidates, who achieved an average of 36.1 and a pass rate of 97.6%. Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS) saw two students score 45 points, with a cohort average of 37.7.
Singapore International School (Hong Kong) (SISHK), Malvern College Hong Kong (MCHK), St Paul’s Co-Educational College, and Po Leung Kuk Choi Kai Yau School each celebrated one top scorer and highest scores of 45 and 40.8 points. Victoria Shanghai Academy (VSA) also saw five students achieve 45 points, with an average of 37.6.
Among the city's top schools reporting exemplary scores were Carmel School Hong Kong, reporting a 100% pass rate and a cohort average of 38.1, Po Leung Kuk Ngan Po Ling College posting an average of 38.8, with two perfect scorers, St. Stephen’s College with seven students score 44 points and one student score 43 points, and Creative Secondary School (CSS) recording an average of 36.2.
IB is a globally recognized pre-university qualification designed to prepare students for higher education and beyond.
The Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP) are two of its senior-level offerings, requiring students aged 16 to 19 to complete six subjects along with three core elements: the extended essay (EE), theory of knowledge (TOK), and creativity, activity, service (CAS).
This year’s exams marked the first major session under new IBO rules aimed at preventing academic dishonesty, including adjusted exam start times, a two-hour supervision requirement, and strict calculator memory clearing protocols.
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Hong Kong is a city that knows how to celebrate in style. From glittering skyline rooftops to luxurious ballrooms and waterfront pavilions, the city offers some of the best event venues in Hong Kong, for every occasion.
Whether you're planning a grand wedding, a corporate conference, or an intimate birthday soirée, Hong Kong’s event landscape is as dynamic as the city itself. Trendy event spaces near Central cater to business networking and launches, while hidden private venues and vibrant party venues in Hong Kong island transform special moments into unforgettable experiences.
Launching soon on Jan. 1, 2026, Spaces by The Beat Asia will be your go-to curated guide to the city’s finest venues. From chic rooftop bars and elegant function rooms in Hong Kong to world-class event halls, Spaces helps you discover, compare, and book stunning locations for any gathering. Stay tuned as we spotlight the best spaces to rent for your 2026 events and beyond, handpicked for design, vibes, and atmosphere.
Already planning your event for 2026? Check our list of the best event spaces to rent in Hong Kong below!
Instagram/ Cardinal Point
What Makes a Great Venue
The best event venues in Hong Kong combine accessibility, ambiance, and flexibility to deliver seamless experiences. Prime event spaces in HK are typically located near Central or Tsim Sha Tsui (who can resist harborfront views?) ensuring easy access via MTR and nearby hotels. Top-tier event halls and function rooms in Hong Kong also offer modern amenities like AV systems, catering, and décor options for a hassle-free setup.
Capacity and design flexibility are key, as venues should accommodate anything from intimate dinners to 1,000-guest galas. And of course, ambiance matters. Many party and private venues in HK feature skyline views, rooftop terraces, or elegant interiors that set the perfect mood.
How much does it cost to rent an event venue in Hong Kong?
Prices vary widely depending on location, size, and amenities. Smaller event spaces near Central may start around HK$5,000 per day, while premium event halls or waterfront ballrooms can range from HK$50,000 to over HK$200,000 for full-day events.
What are some popular types of venues in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong offers a wide range of venues, from hotel function rooms and art galleries to rooftop bars, beachside clubs, and industrial warehouses, catering to every theme and budget.
When is the best time to book an event venue?
For weddings, corporate gatherings, and holiday parties, it’s best to book at least three to six months in advance, especially for top event spaces in HK that fill up quickly during peak seasons such as Christmas, Chinese New Year, and the city's wedding peak season in autumn.
Website/ Auberge Discovery Bay Hotel
Top Event Venues in Hong Kong to Check Out
Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event, or private party, here are the best event venues in Hong Kong to make your next gathering unforgettable.
Central Harbourfront Event Space
Website/ Central Harbourfront Event Space
Central Harbourfront Event Space is Hong Kong’s premier outdoor venue offering 36,000 sqm (387,500 sq. ft.) of versatile, open-air space with stunning 360-degree views of Victoria Harbour and the city skyline. Strategically located with Hong Kong Park, the business district, and Victoria Peak as a backdrop, the venue is ideal for public festivals, cultural events, trade exhibitions, sports competitions, and large-scale private functions.
The site is divided into flexible sections — A (11,500 sqm), B (9,150 sqm), C (8,150 sqm), and D (6,900 sqm) — allowing events to occupy a portion or the full area depending on their requirements. Some of the big events the venue accommodated include the Baseball5 World Cup, FIA World Rallycross Championship, Clockenflap, and more, demonstrating its ability to accommodate diverse scales and formats.
By day, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyscrapers and the Victoria Harbour, while at night, the skyline dazzles with lights, offering a dramatic and memorable backdrop for any occasion. For bookings and inquiries, contact the venue via info@cvm.com.hk or their website.
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
Website/ HKCECInstagram/ HKTDC
The Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) is one of the world’s most advanced and versatile event venues, offering over 91,500 sqm of rentable space tailored to meet the needs of international exhibitions, conferences, and corporate events.
Located along the scenic Victoria Harbour in Wan Chai, the venue features six exhibition halls totaling 66,000 sqm, each designed for flexibility and scalability. The Hall 1 complex spans 19,890 sqm and can be divided into five independent halls (1A-1E) for mega trade shows and expos. Halls 3B-3E (14,982 sqm) and Halls 3F-3G (8,917 sqm) are perfect for large-scale displays and concurrent events, while Halls 5BC-5G offer mid-sized options ranging from 4,456 sqm to 8,410 sqm for exhibitions, conventions, and product launches.
For meetings and seminars, HKCEC offers 52 fully equipped rooms, including suites such as Meeting Rooms S421-S430 and N101-N212, which can host small board meetings or breakout sessions. The Convention Hall and Grand Hall serve as showpiece venues for conferences, gala dinners, and ceremonies, while Theatre 1 and Theatre 2 provide professional environments for presentations and screenings.
Combining cutting-edge facilities with exceptional service, HKCEC remains the premier destination for world-class exhibitions and professional gatherings. For bookings or event inquiries, visit hkcec.com or contact info@hkcec.com.
Located adjacent to the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), AsiaWorld-Expo stands as one of Asia’s premier exhibition and entertainment destinations. Spanning more than 70,000 sqm of rentable space, the venue offers a diverse range of event halls suited for conventions, concerts, exhibitions, and gala banquets.
Its AsiaWorld-Arena (10,880 sqm) is Hong Kong’s largest indoor seated stadium, accommodating up to 14,000 guests for large-scale concerts and international conferences. Meanwhile, the AsiaWorld-Summit (8,200 sqm) offers a plush, fully carpeted, column-free space for conventions or banquets of up to 5,000 attendees, and Runway 11 (4,400 sqm) provides an elegant setting for fashion galas and product launches.
For exhibitions and trade shows, eight Typical Halls (3,500-45,440 sqm) can be combined to host up to 22,000 participants, while the Meeting and Hospitality Centre caters to smaller corporate functions for 100 to 670 guests with flexible partitions and natural lighting.
With ground-level access, high ceilings, and state-of-the-art facilities, AsiaWorld-Expo is built for versatility and scale. For more details, visit their website and fill out their Booking Enquiry form.
Location: AsiaWorld-Expo, 1 Airport Expo Blvd, Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong
Tai Kwun (大館)
Website/ Tai KwunWebsite/ Tai Kwun
Tai Kwun is one of Hong Kong’s most dynamic cultural landmarks that blends history, art, and modern creativity across a stunning heritage site. Spanning multiple restored colonial-era buildings and open-air courtyards, this venue offers a range of versatile event spaces suited for arts showcases, performances, and private functions.
Its JC Cube auditorium (192 seating capacity) is ideal for live music, film screenings, and conferences, while its Duplex Studio (6,300 sq. ft., 140 capacity) and F Hall Studio (2,100 sq. ft., 92 capacity) cater perfectly to exhibitions, workshops, and rehearsals. Outdoor venues such as the Prison Yard (14,000 sq. ft., 300 capacity) and the Parade Ground (12,000 sq. ft., 300 capacity) provide striking backdrops for cultural festivals and large-scale gatherings. Smaller spaces like the Ideas Studio (750 sq. ft., 24 capacity) and Lower E Hall (2,300 sq. ft., 76 capacity) offer intimate settings for creative meetings or networking sessions.
Surrounded by the vibrant neighborhoods of Hollywood Road, Lan Kwai Fong, and Soho, Tai Kwun offers a seamless mix of heritage charm and urban accessibility for any type of event. For more details, visit their website to view their event space brochure.
Location: Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong
Soho House Hong Kong
Website/ Soho House Hong Kong
Perched in Sheung Wan with sweeping views of Victoria Harbour, Soho House Hong Kong is a stylish, multi-level venue designed for both private and public events. Housing six floors of a 28-storey building, the private club offers a variety of versatile spaces for parties, meetings, screenings, exhibitions, and intimate dining experiences.
The Studio Duplex, spanning two floors and connected by an internal staircase, accommodates up to 600 standing guests or 220 seated, making it ideal for large-scale pop-ups and brand events. For more tailored gatherings, the House Studio hosts 220 standing or 120 seated, perfect for exhibitions, workshops, or parties. The Pool Room adds a luxe touch to celebrations with a large pool, DJ decks, two bars, daybeds, and a terrace, accommodating 230 standing or 80 seated guests.
Members-only spaces such as the Screening Room, Pink Room, and Sola Room offer intimate settings for presentations, private screenings, and fine dining, while the Blue, Green, and Yellow Rooms combine city or harbor views with bar facilities for receptions or brand events. For bookings or inquiries, contact +852 5803 8888 or privatehire.hongkong@sohohouse.com.
PMQ is a landmark creative hub that has been successfully revitalized into a vibrant platform for Hong Kong’s design and cultural community. Home to over 100 creative entrepreneurs, PMQ blends heritage charm with modern functionality, making it a prime venue for art exhibitions, cultural events, workshops, and networking gatherings.
Its Courtyard & Marketplace offers a semi-covered, weatherproof outdoor area of 10,000 sq. ft. (event area 6,000 sq. ft.) with a five-meter headroom, accommodating up to 450 guests for markets, festivals, performances, and design showcases. Its indoor multi-purpose space on the second floor, Qube, spans 5,000 sq. ft. and can host up to 450 guests (theatre-style) or 22 tables (banquet-style), which is ideal for luxury brand events and world-class exhibitions. The Hub, a contemporary 750 sq. ft. room, is suited for talks, workshops, and small exhibitions with a capacity of up to 40 guests.
Food-focused events can find their home in the venue's Taste Library (1,750 sq. ft.), Hong Kong's only food-themed library, which is perfect for tastings, cooking classes, and networking events of up to 40 guests. For showcasing creative products on a smaller scale, the Pop-Up Units (400 sq. ft.) can accommodate up to 20 guests for a compact yet impactful setting. For venue inquiries and bookings, contact events@pmq.org.hk.
Location: PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong
Hong Kong Fringe Club (藝穗會)
Website/ Hong Kong Fringe ClubWebsite/ Hong Kong Fringe Club
Tucked away in the cultural heart of Central, Hong Kong Fringe Club is a beloved arts landmark that has nurtured creativity and community since 1983. Housed in a Grade 1 heritage building, this vibrant venue offers an eclectic mix of intimate spaces ideal for small-scale performances, art exhibitions, networking sessions, and private gatherings.
Its Anita Chan Lai-ling Gallery on the ground floor provides a bright, glass-fronted setting for contemporary art displays, while its Fringe Dairy (a dedicated jazz and cabaret room) offers seating for around 80 and standing room for 150, complete with a baby grand piano and bar. The Fringe Underground (75-120 capacity) and Jockey Club Studio Theatre (up to 80 seats) are black-box spaces perfect for experimental theatre, dance, and independent film showcases. For smaller get-togethers, the Food Theater accommodates about 40 guests in a cozy, creative atmosphere.
With its relaxed yet inspiring environment and central location (near Lan Kwai Fong and Soho), the Fringe Club remains a go-to venue for artists and audiences seeking authenticity and connection. For event bookings or inquiries, contact hello@hkfringeclub.com or call 2521 7251.
Whether you’re planning a birthday bash, corporate gala, or dream wedding, Hong Kong offers the perfect backdrop for every occasion. Discover, compare, and book with ease through Spaces, launching soon.
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TEDxTinHauWomen 2025 returns to Hong Kong this November at WestK’s Xiqu Centre with a powerful theme: Reframe — a call to amplify voices that challenge norms and inspire change. This year’s lineup brings together innovators, advocates, and creators reshaping how we think about leadership, sustainability, and community.
One of those voices is Jacqueline Chak, Co-founder of sustainable lifestyle brand reEDIT and design studio EDITECTURE, whose talk centers on a bold idea: “Giving objects an ‘afterlife’ is an act of rebellion against a disposable world.”
The Beat Asia had the opportunity to talk to Jacqueline to explore her vision for circular design, the challenges of Hong Kong’s "culture of convenience," the emotional weight of giving objects an “afterlife,” and her hopes for a more thoughtful world.
Courtesy of TEDxTinHau Women
Jacqueline’s journey began in architecture school, where a project designing a recycling paper factory sparked a fascination with materiality.
“The way I was trained to look at material and structure influences the way I explore and develop our own materiality study and research,” she says.
After honing her craft at Foster + Partners in London and Bow-Wow Atelier in Japan, Jacqueline returned to Hong Kong to launch EDITECTURE and later reEDIT. Today, her work spans architecture, fashion, and art — all connected by a single mission: to transform waste into design legacies, not landfill.
Courtesy of Jacqueline ChakCourtesy of Jacqueline Chak
Her commitment to sustainability extends far beyond design studios. At reEDIT, Jacqueline is preparing to launch HOMEDIT, a transformable mobile home that will be gifted to Hong Kong’s homeless community this Christmas. “We are proud to be gifting these units to the homeless community this Christmas, embodying our core belief that design's greatest value is in serving human needs.”
Meanwhile, Edit Academy is planting seeds of change early, teaching children to see resources as transformable. And then there’s TIDE, her new charity foundation, which will channel efforts into expanding this work globally. More than side projects, they’re proof that sustainability, for Jacqueline, is as much about people as it is about materials.
Her ideas are bold, but they’re grounded in practical action — from HOMEDIT mobile homes for the homeless to Edit Academy programs shaping the next generation. In our conversation, Jacqueline shared more about her philosophy, her process, and why reframing isn’t just for design — it’s a life lens. Here’s what she told us.
What inspired reEDIT, and how does it reflect your philosophy of reframing design?
Courtesy of Jacqueline Chak
We first started with sustainable solutions for our interior and architectural work such as using upcycled material for our construction projects. And then we started creating our own upcycled materials for a client.
Then, we looked into solutions on how we can pre-design and post-design to provide options and designs to make our [builds last] even longer and have more than one life. [Our aim was] to be the bridge and connector between our commercial client and the community so that projects can have more than one use and one life.
Does your training in architecture influence how you approach materiality and structure?
When I was in architecture school, I designed a recycling paper factory to use recycled paper to create design, but I did not actually look at any solutions for upcycling plastic. However, the way I was trained to look at material and structure does influence the way I explore and develop our own materiality study and research, and also the study of engineering and architectural structure.
What’s the most unexpected material or object you’ve ever worked with— and what was the result like?
Courtesy of Jacqueline Chak
The reason I love recycled and upcycled material is that every single piece of product is unique — not one single piece of upcycled plastic is the same, so it is a surprise every time we explore a new product or material. One of the examples of working with upcycled glass for our upcycled horse display is incredible.
Upcycled metal is also very surprising and unexpected. The mix is different every single time and that’s what so special about the outcome.
Your work spans architecture, fashion, and art. What connects these disciplines when it comes to sustainability?
Courtesy of Jacqueline Chak
What connects them is a shared material reality and a common goal: to transform our relationship with physical stuff.
In all three, we make choices about what we extract, how we assemble it, and where it ends up. The connection is seeing waste as a design flaw and regarding every material as a nutrient for the next cycle. Whether a building, a garment, or a sculpture or a product, the sustainable approach asks: Can it be disassembled? Can it be repurposed? It’s about creating legacies, not landfill, across every scale of human creation.
What does “reframing” mean to you beyond design—does it apply to how you live, lead, or even fail?
Courtesy of Jacqueline Chak
Absolutely. To me, reframing is a fundamental life lens. It’s not just redesigning objects but re-authoring my perspective.
In leadership, it means viewing team disagreements not as conflict, but as a diversity of thought essential for innovation. When I fail, reframing allows me to see it not as a definitive end, but as an integral part of the iteration process that ultimately leads to a more resilient solution. It transforms every experience into material for growth. It is exactly what reEDIT is about. Making things and designs that last.
Do you see Hong Kong as fertile ground for sustainable design — or are there unique challenges?
Hong Kong is a dynamic hub for sustainable design, fueled by a vibrant community of innovators and growing environmental awareness.
The city hosts global initiatives like the Redress Design Award and is strengthening its policy framework with plastic bans and sustainability reporting.
However, our high-density urban environment presents distinct challenges. The lack of spacious workshops and high operating costs demand ultra-efficient, compact design processes.
More importantly, Hong Kong’s culture of convenience and disposability pushes us to create designs that are not just sustainable, but also deeply desirable and convenient, proving that an eco-conscious lifestyle can be seamless and stylish. This unique context forces us to innovate smarter, making sustainability accessible for all.
Courtesy of Jacqueline Chak
What do you hope audiences take away from your TEDx talk — especially those who don’t consider themselves “design people”?
I hope they leave seeing the world differently.
You don't need to be a "design person" to be a co-author in our world's story. I want them to look at a discarded object and not see trash, but a potential new chapter. It’s a mindset shift from passive consumer to active creator.
My core message is that sustainability isn't about sacrifice; it's about creativity and respect. Every choice to reimage, repair, repurpose, or demand better is a vote for a more thoughtful world. I want to empower them with the simple idea that they hold the power to grant things an afterlife, starting with the objects in their own home.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Want to hear more? Get your ticket for TEDxTinHauWomen 2025 this November at Xiqu Centre via CityLine and catch Jacqueline Chak live. Her talk will challenge how you see waste — and inspire you to reframe design as a tool for creativity and respect.
For more information about Jacqueline Chak’s work, follow her on Linkedin and Instagram, while you can also explore her projects through the Instagram accounts linked in her profile. Visit TEDxTinHauWomen's website for more information about the event this year.
TEDxTinHau Women 2025 Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre Wed, November 12 1:00 PM
- 7:00 PM
TEDxTinHau Women 2025 returns on November 12 at Xiqu Centre, showcasing eight dynamic speakers under the theme "Reframe", exploring fresh perspectives on resilience, identity, design, and innovation.
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Two years since our last catch-up with Caterina Bernardini de Pace, the General Manager of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao (ICC), The Beat Asia sat down in the Chamber’s new office and event space- espresso in hand, to dive into our rebounding economy and a bright future ahead for Italy-Asia relations.
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
Following successful Italian National Day celebrations in June, the Chamber is gearing up for an eventful calendar, including their upcoming Annual Gala 2025 at Regent Hong Kong and Italy’s partnership with Hong Kong's Business of Design Week. Looking ahead towards the introduction of more in-depth professional services, business missions, and focused events for not just Italian business owners, but the wider ecosystem of those interested in trade between the Greater Bay Area and Italy, Caterina shares exciting insights on ICC.
Hi Caterina! It’s been two years since our last catchup, what are some of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong and Macao’s recent accomplishments you’d like to highlight for our readers?
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
Wow, two years already! It feels like yesterday. In 2023, you caught me at a challenging time, just coming out of the pandemic. We worked hard, not only in Hong Kong but especially in Italy, highlighting Hong Kong’s opportunities and unique role as a gateway to the GBA [Greater Bay Area]. In recent years, we have focused on rebuilding the city’s image and our services. The Chamber’s focus has shifted from primarily hosting events to emphasizing B2B: business matching and commercial missions.
We completed three business missions in the past year alone, focusing on electronics, logistics, and innovation, with great success. That’s why we’re pushing these initiatives forward. Of course, last year’s Gala at the Regent Hotel was fantastic, and we also launched the first edition of our Business Awards.
Can you elaborate on the realignments the Chamber has made to its mission in 2025?
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
There’s a perception of 'golden years'—2018 and 2019, when we had many events, which were wonderful for member engagement. But after COVID, we realized we couldn’t sustain ourselves on events alone. Networking and marketing remain crucial, but we’re now committed to delivering more value through diverse services.
Did you know we offer translation, site visits, HR services, and business matching? We connect Italian companies with the best partners we can find. We introduced a special membership discount for restaurants, recognizing F&B’s challenges during COVID. We aim to build a robust network of Italian restaurants and lend our support. Engaging young talent is another priority; students or workers, and Italians returning to Hong Kong, are welcome to intern or start their careers with us. Startups benefit from our employment and marketing services, and we recently introduced marketing services for China.
Can you elaborate more on Hong Kong being a unique entry point for Italian businesses looking to expand to China and Asia?
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
Hong Kong is exceptional for business setup thanks to its efficiency. You can establish a company in a day or two, with minimal requirements. Strategically, it’s a gateway to China; now with high-speed rail, you can reach Shenzhen in less than 30 minutes. That connectivity is invaluable for businesses exploring Asian markets.
What’s a surprising fact about Italy-Hong Kong relations/Italian people in Hong Kong that most people wouldn’t know?
2025 marks 55 years of Italy-China diplomatic relations, a significant milestone. This year, we hosted several key visits: the President of the Republic of Italy, the President of the Senate, and our Prime Minister.
Despite differences, our cultures share many values, especially the importance of family. And wherever you go in the world, you’ll always find a pizza place and a Chinese restaurant—food truly brings us together.
In addition to business-focused events, what are some of the community initiatives the Chamber drives or takes part in?
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
For the first time, the Chamber took part in HOFEX this May, Asia’s leading food and hospitality tradeshow. Hosting a dedicated booth, we represented four distinguished Italian companies, providing them with a high-visibility platform to showcase Italian products, network with regional buyers, and foster business partnerships. Our participation in HOFEX marked an important milestone, strengthening the presence of Italian cuisine, beverages, and innovation within the Hong Kong market and beyond. This involvement highlights our commitment to supporting members’ growth and advocacy in major industry events.
What exciting events do you have coming up for the rest of the year?
Courtesy of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao
Our signature event is the Gala in November, the culmination of our busy year. Seeing 400 guests enjoying themselves is always a rewarding experience. We welcome not only Italian organizations but any company interested in experiencing a bit of Italian style.
Italy will also partner with the Hong Kong Design Centre’s 'Business of Design Week' in December. We'll collaborate with the Italian Consul General to bring installations and large-scale design projects to Hong Kong for both November and December.
For a Hong Kong person looking to travel to Italy for the first time, which city would you recommend first time?
Now that direct flights are available, I’d certainly recommend Rome! It’s our beautiful capital, rich in history and sights. I’m from Milan, which also now has daily flights, and the city is thriving and blooming, especially in spring.
Any closing words for the community?
Trust in the work of chambers. We devote tremendous effort and have a fantastic team ready to help with any business matters. We’re here for everyone, not just Italians!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Learn more about the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao here, and follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for more updates!
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Although we live in Asia's financial center, when you hear “FinTech conference,” your mind probably still jumps to suits, spreadsheets, and jargon-heavy panels. But Hong Kong’s FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025 is rewriting that script. It’s a five-day cultural moment where finance, AI, and ambition collide under one skyline.
While the main conference will be held from November 3–4, 2025, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the full FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025 will run through November 7, marking the 10th anniversary of both events. Last year’s FinTech Week welcomed over 37,000 attendees, 800+ speakers, and 700 exhibitors from more than 100 economies. This year, the event is expected to scale up— but with the vibe remaining refreshingly human.
Instagram/ Hong Kong FinTech WeekInstagram/ Hong Kong FinTech Week
The theme, “Curating the New Fintech Era,” sets the tone for a future-forward experience. Attendees can expect 11 themed forums covering everything from AI and HealthTech to Web3 and Wealth Management. Alongside regulators and global policy leaders, the prestigious speaker lineup includes Nobel Laureate Geoffrey Hinton, Binance CEO Richard Teng, HSBC’s Georges Elhedery, and more.
What makes this event lifestyle-worthy goes beyond the tech. Immersive showcases and a new AI concierge named “Samantha,” who curates personalized schedules via WhatsApp or WeChat, bring a human touch to high-tech networking. It’s connection without the name tags, innovation without the intimidation.
For startups, the Global Fast Track program will spotlight semi-finalists from seven verticals pitching live on stage. It’s a glimpse into the next wave of lifestyle-enhancing tech, from sustainable finance to smart wellness platforms.
Courtesy of Hong Kong FinTech Week
“Start-ups are an important part of any economy. Behind every start-up, there must be an innovative business idea. These new ideas call for changes and refresh our economy. Apart from the favorable business environment in Hong Kong, the start-ups here are supported by a strong network of incubators and accelerators, a pool of experienced angels and venture capitalists, a host of government-backed programs, and a welcoming business community,” said Mr. Algernon Yau, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development.
Instagram/ Hong Kong FinTech Week
Explore more at the event’s official website here, and you can follow their Instagram and Facebook for instant updates.
Location: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai
Hong Kong FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025 Multiple venues Mon, November 3 9:00 AM
onwards
Celebrate a decade of innovation at Hong Kong FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025, happening Nov. 3–7, 2025, across HKCEC and multiple venues.
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In a city known for its hustle, Preface is asking Hongkongers to pause, reflect, and take a bold first step into the future. The tech education company has launched “Just Start,” an initiative aimed at getting one million residents to begin their journey intoartificial intelligence (AI) with no jargon, no gatekeeping, but just accessible learning.
Courtesy of Preface
At the heart of the campaign is the AI-Q Test, Hong Kong’s first open-access AI self-assessment tool. It’s a five-minute online quiz that gauges your understanding of AI concepts like prompt writing and scenario analysis, then offers personalized learning recommendations. The goal is to turn curiosity into action and make AI literacy commonplace.
It’s worth noting that “Just Start” isn’t just digital. The campaign is backed by more than 30 organizations, including Google, Microsoft, Meta, Samsung, and Standard Chartered. Free public workshops are popping up everywhere from Central Harbourfront to different Preface Coffee & Wine locations, inviting people of all ages to learn in casual, everyday settings.
Courtesy of Preface
Preface’s Founder and CEO Tommie Lo describes the initiative as a cultural shift. “AI is fundamentally reshaping the way the world works and the types of talent it values. Learning AI is no longer optional,” he said. “Just Start is about breaking down the barriers to learning, encouraging more people to roll up their sleeves, step into the classroom, and take that first active step into a new era — helping Hong Kong build a culture of proactive, continuous tech learning.”
Preface’s collaborations also lead to perks that make learning feel rewarding. Standard Chartered offers Asia Miles for every dollar spent on AI courses, while WeLab Bank provides hassle-free installment plans to ease financial barriers. CHARGESPOT helps users locate nearby learning hubs, and the Melo AI-5000 program, run in partnership with Project Melo, will deliver free training to 5,000 secondary school students.
From content creation to career transformation, Preface’s courses cater to both kids and professionals. But the message remains universal: learning AI isn’t about keeping up but showing up.
Take your AI-Q Test now and learn more about the “Just Start” campaign via their website. Follow Preface on Instagram and Facebook for details about their public lectures, exhibition, and program.
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Getting a credit card in Hong Kong isn't just about convenience or making payments; it's a chance to enjoy rewards and treat yourself every time you spend.
Many banks in the city are offering exciting and bang-for-your-buck credit card offers with perks like cashback, special prices, exclusive dining discounts, and many more.
If you hold a few different credit cards or haven't paid much attention to pre-existing offers, continue reading to find out how you can maximize your credit card spending in the city and beyond!
HSBC Premier Exclusive: Buy-1-Get-1-Free Set Lunch or Dinner
Amber Hong Kong
HSBC Premier Mastercard Credit Card holders can treat themselves to an exclusive buy-1-get-1-free set lunch or dinner at top-tier restaurants across Hong Kong, including MICHELIN-starred favorites like Amber, Arbor, Man Wah, Mandarin Grill & Bar, Nagamoto, NOI, Sun Tung Lok, Rùn, and MORA. The offer also covers The Krug Room and Lawry’s The Prime Rib.
Available until Dec. 31, 2025 - this is the perfect chance to experience world-class dining for half the price!
Check out the deal listing below to find out how to make your reservation!
Enjoy 2 for 1 at Selected MICHELIN Venues with HSBC Premier Credit Card Multiple Venues Fri, November 14 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Indulge in Michelin-starred dining with a buy-1-get-1-free set lunch or dinner, exclusively for HSBC Premier Mastercard® holders. Available at selected Hong Kong restaurants now through 31 December 2025.
American Express Exclusive: Up to 30% Off on Selected Restaurants
Cova Hong Kong
If you hold any eligible American Express® Cards in Hong Kong, enjoy the Special Dining Offer of up to 30% off at designated restaurants from Jul. 1 to Sept. 30, 2025, and their Year-Round Dining Offer of up to 25% savings at select venues from now until the end of the year, Dec. 31, 2025.
Reservations are required with mention of the offer usage.
Visit the deal listing below for the full participating restaurants list!
30% Savings on Seasonal & Year-Round Dining Offers with AMEX Multiple Venues Fri, November 14 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Enjoy up to 30% off at selected restaurants this summer, or save up to 25% year-round with American Express Hong Kong dining offers. Perfect for foodies looking to dine smarter.
Visa Exclusive: Earn Up to HK$350 for Octopus on iPhone and Apple Watch
Visa / Octopus
From now until Oct. 31, 2025, Visa and Octopus are offering new and existing customers the chance to earn up to HK$350 Octopus Top-Up Value when using an eligible Visa card with Octopus on iPhone or Apple Watch.
Rewards include a HK$100 welcome bonus for new users, up to HK$150 for top-ups of HK$500 or more, and an extra HK$100 for new Mobile Octopus registrations made by Sept. 20, 2025.
Get Up to HK$350 Octopus Value with Visa Visa Fri, October 31 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Earn up to HK$350 in Octopus Top-up Value when you add Octopus to iPhone or Apple Watch and top up using your Visa card. Valid until October 31, 2025.
Mastercard Exclusive: One Dines Free
Jyu Bei
Who doesn't like free things? With Mastercard's One Dines Free offer, cardholders can enjoy a complimentary main course at one of their partner restaurants across major cities, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo, and Sydney.
Reservation must be made through the One Dines Free website and paid with by any valid Mastercard credit card.
Check out the deal listing below to see the full partner restaurants list!
One Dines Free: Enjoy a Free Main Course with Mastercard Multiple Venues Fri, November 14 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Dine across Asia Pacific with Mastercard’s One Dines Free. Enjoy a complimentary main course at select partner restaurants when you book through onedinesfree.com and pay with your Mastercard.
DBS COMPASS VISA: Enjoy 8% COMPASS Dollar Rebate Every Wednesday
Instagram/ city'super
If you're not buying your groceries on a Wednesday then what are you doing? DBS COMPASS VISA cardholders can enjoy up to 8% COMPASS Dollar rebate every Wednesday!
All you have to do is spend a minimum of HK$300 or more at a local supermarket, and the rebates will be credited automatically.
Visit the deal listing below to find out the eligible local supermarkets!
DBS COMPASS VISA Super Wednesday: 8% Rebate Multiple Venues Wed, November 19 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Earn up to 8% COMPASS Dollar rebate every Wednesday with DBS COMPASS VISA when spending HK$300 or more at local supermarkets. Automatic credit to your account—no hassle.
American Express Exclusive: HK$1 to Enjoy a Star Ferry Ride
One of the best ways to experience Hong Kong's iconic Victoria Harbour is by taking the Star Ferry. If you have an American Express® card, you can now enjoy Star Ferry rides for just HK$1!
Simply select "Pay by AMEX $1" at the turnstile of the Star Ferry and tap your card to redeem. Note that blackout dates apply so be sure to check before you board.
Unlimited Star Ferry Rides for HK$1 with American Express Card Multiple locations Wed, April 2 10:00 AM
onwards
Star Ferry for HK$1: Enjoy unlimited Star Ferry rides for HK$1 with an American Express Card. Valid on select routes from Jan. 2-Dec. 31, 2025. Terms apply.
Visa Exclusive: Save Up to 20% at HKIA on Selected Restaurants
Enjoy 20% at Selected Airport Dining Spots at HKIA Multiple Venues Tue, September 30 12:00 AM
- 11:59 PM
Get up to 20% off dining at Hong Kong International Airport with your Visa Infinite or Visa Signature card. Valid at select outlets from March 31 to September 30, 2025.
#TravelWithVisa: Receive Up to HK$800 on Flight Bookings
Visa
Until Dec. 31, 2025, eligible Visa cardholders in Hong Kong and Macau can enjoy up to HK$800 cash rebates when booking flights directly with Air New Zealand, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, or Singapore Airlines through their respective local websites.
For bookings between HK$4,000 and HK$7,999, travelers can receive an HK$240 rebate, and HK$800 rebate for bookings of HK$8,000 or more.
Your visa card must be registered before any purchase! Check out the deal listing below to find out how!
#TravelWithVisa Travel Rewards: Cash Rebates on Flight Bookings Multiple destinations Sat, November 15 10:00 AM
- 6:00 PM
Enjoy Visa’s #TravelWithVisa initiative rewards with cash rebates of up to HK$800 on bookings with five international airlines, with a whimsical hot-air balloon pop-up at K11 MUSEA.
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If you thought artificial intelligence (AI) was just about chatbots and creepy robot dogs, now’s the time for you to rethink. In fact, business leaders from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan are giving AI a serious upgrade. The three markets are expected to dominate Asia-Pacific’s AI landscape, pouring US$102.9 billion into AI technology by 2028.
Courtesy of UiPath
According to a new IDC InfoBrief commissioned by UiPath, agentic automation is quickly becoming the secret sauce behind smarter, faster, and more resilient enterprises across Asia-Pacific. The report highlights a seismic shift toward agentic automation, the AI systems that don’t just follow instructions but make decisions, adapt in realtime, and orchestrate complex workflows across enterprise ecosystems.
Courtesy of UiPath
In the three markets collectively, 45% of enterprises have already adopted agentic AI, and another 42% plan to do so within six months. Not only that, but business leaders also aren’t shy about spending as 49% of firms are ready to increase budgets by 26–50% to deploy these intelligent systems, with expectations of 3x returns on investment (ROI).
Top use cases include customer service automation, real-time decision support, and productivity enhancement, especially in industries like retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and life sciences. But the road to AI dominance isn’t without speed bumps. Concerns around data security, talent shortages, and ethical governance remain top of mind.
Still, with strong leadership from CEOs, CTOs, and emerging Chief AI Officers, the region is well-positioned to lead the next wave of enterprise innovation. Taiwan’s government-backed digital infrastructure and Hong Kong’s tech-forward mindset make them ideal launchpads for scalable AI transformation.
So, while the debates circulate around AI ethics and existential risks, Asia’s power trio is busy building the future with artificial intelligence agents.
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Have you ever wondered what it takes to make it to the C-suite? We sit down with corporate leaders and changemakers to get to the heart of their success. What was their first job? What does it take to found your own company? All of these questions are answered in Executive Impact, our latest interview series that explores actionable advice, corporate social responsibility, and building a legacy that will have a tangible impact on the future.
Social impact intern turned Executive Director at one of the city’s innovative NGOs working to foster sustainable systemic change, Vivian Seo leads with “radical candor” and an unwavering commitment to the Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)’s core philosophy. Connecting individuals and corporations with resources to impact-driven causes since its formation, FSI has successfully fostered a thriving ecosystem and growing force for good.
Fresh from a heartwarming and successful second edition of FSI’s annual Know Your GuideFongevent held in Tsim Sha Tsui in July 2025, The Beat Asia explores Vivian’s humble origins from the Foundation's first project manager to leading its expanded team today, working to be the city’s social impact superconnector. Naming herself a “professional generalist,” her skills and experiences are broad, successfully allowing her to bring together Hong Kong’s wealth of resources and social impact-minded individuals to build a thriving ecosystem driving sustainable change.
Photo from Website/Foundation for Shared Impact
Co-founded by serial social entrepreneur and professor at HKU Business School, David Bishop, the Co-founder of the Fair Employment Agency, Soap Cycling, and Migrasia, among other notable social enterprises, and Jon Pederson, the Director of Weava and Co-teacher at the Impact Lab at the University of Hong Kong, FSI was created in 2018 with the mission to help the city’s socially-driven people to scale their impact through knowledge-sharing, connecting individuals and resources, empowerment, and direct community action. This also involved the creation of an extended shared network for not only David and Jon’s social enterprises, but also the city’s vast ecosystem of ethnically diverse business owners and founders.
Today, FSI is home to multiple curated programs offering mentorship for ethnically diverse entrepreneurs, youth empowerment, corporate and leadership training, and many other community-driven solutions. From guided tours inviting locals to connect with the small business owners at the heart of Hong Kong, to volunteer opportunities, to training for NGO board members, the scope of FSI’s work is broad, and well aligned with their mission — “to be a one-stop shop for anyone who wants to do good,” in Vivian’s words.
Get to know Vivian’s unique professional journey from working at Goldman Sachs after graduation to returning to the social impact space, learn more about FSI and how you can get involved, and her personal advice for entrepreneurs. Kicking off the interview, we ran 10 questions from the Proust Questionnaire by Vivian:
1. What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I consider learning English my greatest achievement in life.
It really opened doors for me to connect more with people and feel at home in a country that I'm not originally from, and really let me break out of my comfort zone.
2. What is your idea of perfect happiness?
My idea of happiness is to feel safe in an environment where I have people surrounding me that I can trust, and sometimes be silly with. My idea of perfect happiness would then be being able to provide that kind of environment for someone I love.
3. What was your first job?
My first job was working as an English tutor!
4. When and where were you the happiest?
I'm the happiest now! And most recently, I made a trip to a countryside town I was raised in in Korea with my parents and some of my besties in Hong Kong. It was a really nice family feeling — that was one of the happiest moments in my life.
5. What is it that you most dislike?
I dislike any actions or words people use to judge others.
6. What is your greatest fear?
My greatest fear is not being useful to others.
My sense of achievement and fulfillment always comes from being practically helpful to others. This is a fear that I'm trying to overcome, but I still have it.
7. Which talent would you most like to have?
I would love to have a talent to recover fast and have a lot of athletic talent, for my own health!
8. What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
There's no virtue that I think is overrated, but if I had to pick one, I would say, maybe honor, especially blinded [honor] that is just kept for the sake of it.
9. Which living person do you most admire?
There is a YouTuber who's 73 years old who's a Korean called Milanonna.
She's the first Korean to study in Milan, Italy, in the 1970s. She’s a pioneer in the fashion industry and has brought multiple Italian Brands for the first time to Korea. The reason why I admire her is that she is an icon of breaking out of her comfort zone and being a YouTuber to share her life story. She gently suggests that everybody should be their authentic self and be comfortable with who they are.
10. What is your motto?
My life motto is to live as you like.
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
Reflecting on your journey working as an intern at the Fair Employment Agency to your career at Goldman Sachs, to returning to the social impact space working at FSI and eventually transitioning to your current role as Executive Director, how does it feel to look back on your professional career and celebrate FSI’s growth?
I was born and raised in Korea and was really captivated by the idea that you can do something socially meaningful, but at the same time be commercially sustainable. I just thought that that made perfect sense; everybody should do something that benefits society, but still be able to survive.
I came to Hong Kong to study accounting and finance, but I knew I did not want to become an accountant or auditor. On my first summer break, I was scrolling through my emails, and there was this course recruitment message for the Impact Lab Course (formerly Social Venture Management Course), where students do an internship placement instead of coursework at a social impact organization.
Long story short, that course is something that our Co-founder, David Bishop, administers. Through that internship, I was able to work with the Fair Employment Agency.
After I graduated, I knew that I wanted to build more transferable skills, and luckily, I got into Goldman Sachs. That was great because they provide a lot of training, and it's an environment where you can develop a lot of soft skills. At the end of my second year, I was looking for an opportunity where I could feel more connected to the community in Hong Kong.
I had stayed in touch with David after graduation and learned that he had built the Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI) [in 2018] as an umbrella organization to facilitate resource management for his multiple social enterprises.
When he explained what FSI would be doing, I felt like it was meant to be. I would love to be in a position where I'm helping amazing people build amazing stuff.
I was our first project manager. And that's how I came to FSI four years ago!
Celebrating the growth from then, we now have five full-time hires growing to a group of nine paid staff!
I've seen FSI grow so much, and to be able to sit in a leadership position from last year in this organization that has so much talent, I'm just very grateful for the opportunity.
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
How would you like to define your professional career?
I’m a professional generalist.
It used to be my biggest fear. I have so many friends who had a very specific dream, like “I want to be a doctor,” but I never really had that one occupation that I dreamed of.
Looking back, I think I was always excited by opportunities where I could be a facilitator or coordinator, building bridges. I might not be an expert, but being somebody who enables others to do something a bit more and maximizes others’ potential. That’s the kind of job I like to do.
What is a crucial piece of leadership advice you wish had been shared with your younger self?
I'm still telling this to myself now: just because you're sitting in a leadership position doesn't mean that you need to have all the answers by yourself.
The less experienced you are, the more pressure you feel you need to excel if you're given a leadership position. I think if you're in an environment where you can be a leader and you can still fail, that's the best environment you can be in. The important and powerful learning I got is that I should trust my teammates and also their trust in me- that there's a good reason for me to be placed in this position.
Congratulations on FSI’s annual Mentorship Program for Ethnically Diverse Entrepreneurs reaching its 3-year mark! What's a meaningful experience from this program you’d love to commemorate?
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
I feel the most sense of fulfillment or achievement in those full circle moments — we have some mentees that we accelerated who want to come back to be a mentor. Those are the moments that I adore the most, when the community stays beyond the program, and they help each other.
That tells us that what we envisioned can really come true. We're trying to build communities that are reciprocal and supportive; we want to make sure that it's sustainable beyond just the program period. Watching these entrepreneurs exchange knowledge, share resources, help each other out, and grow together was a moment where we knew it could happen.
Adding onto that, what has been one of your most validating experiences or proudest moments that affirmed the positive impact FSI is making for you?
If we think about FSI as an organization, we work with corporate partners, corporate professionals, schools, and youth.
When young people come to us and say that they've changed thanks to our experience, that's a big moment for me. Youth work with us through internship placements, soft skills workshops, or other programs. They gave feedback that our experience broadened their horizons, and they were able to connect with a community that they'd never interacted with.
When they come to us, their experience changes their perspective and has an impact on their long-term career. We feel the heaviest responsibility because we know we have an impact.
Phoenix TV, Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)Phoenix TV, Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
You have also reached 1 year since your appointment as Executive Director at FSI, how does it feel and looking forward, what impact are you looking to make?
It's a really humbling experience to be able to lead a team that consists of eight other people, some more experienced than me, coming from all different cultures and backgrounds.
Our name, Foundation for Shared Impact, kind of spoils it, but we are all in for collaboration. We're trying to spread the message and prove through our programs that the social sector doesn't have to be a zero-sum game.
We don't need to take from another to win. We can all thrive in an ecosystem that supports each other. Our organizational strategy is all about that purpose, where we're building programs that help the entire ecosystem of the social sector.
Can you elaborate on the value FSI provides your partner corporations?
To run a good company, you need to invest in people. For the current generation, a sense of purpose is something that drives people a lot.
That's where we come in because we have the expertise and the connections through which corporates can deliver community engagement and socially impactful programs for their staff. Some examples include skills-based volunteering opportunities or workshops.
Using GuideFong as an example, we bring volunteers on tours in multicultural neighborhoods to visit small businesses to use their skills in a different way. We work with law firms that provide legal support for our entrepreneurs and mentees. [We hold] workshops where you help an entrepreneur or social impact organization do market research or develop a financial model. Everybody has skills that they can give, so we're a conduit for providing that kind of opportunity for corporates.
We also deliver board director training to professionals. We’re a one-stop shop for any corporation that wants to do good.
How would you define FSI’s core values?
There are five pillars in our Shared Impact Philosophy. The first is broad collaboration, and the second is freely sharing knowledge and resources.
The third is data-driven impact models. We always value visible data like impact measurement. The fourth is seeking systems change, so driving impact that is long-term oriented and solving root issues instead of just a one-off bandage of issues.
The last one is a culture of radical candor, so making sure that we are transparent in the way that we communicate.
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
For emerging entrepreneurs looking to tackle this tough market and make a difference, do you have a main takeaway to share with them?
Join a community.
If you're starting by yourself, it's a very lonely journey. That's why we built the mentorship program to create a community and help you find like-minded entrepreneurs that you can learn from and share resources with.
You are also an Executive at social enterprise Gowld Art Centre, can you share a little more about its mission?
Gowld Art Centre (GAC)'s mission is to provide an environment where anyone in Hong Kong can maximize their creative confidence by taking care of their body, mind, and soul using art as a medium to achieve self-actualization.
We have a lot of educational programs also in martial arts, so it's not just visual arts. It's a really diverse and hybrid space.
Photo from Website/Gowld Art Centre
Is there any crossover between your work at GAC and FSI?
Yes! Gowld Art Center is one of the many social impact organizations that FSI works with. They’re also part of the Impact Lab Course, through which they're getting university interns.
Life as an entrepreneur, especially for solopreneurs, can be quite hectic and time-consuming, what is your advice for business owners to stay true to their mission whilst prioritizing their own self-care?
It’s important you know your own cheat sheet on how to let go and relax. It could be travel, reading, or chilling at a café, but make sure you know what works for you and are using that method frequently enough to prevent burnout.
It’s really important you check your own reserve and battery to assess how much energy you have left so that you're preventing future burnout.
What self-care practices do you take part in?
My favorite would be reading outside in a café if the weather permits. I like creating things with my hands. I've been hopping between different hobbies: pottery, painting, and recently, I got into crochet.
What’s your favorite part about working in the social impact space in Hong Kong?
I love the people that I work with. I love being in a space where not just FSI, but all these other organizations that have their own social mission and vision are so passionate about what they do, and everybody brings their whole self to their work.
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
What can we look forward to seeing from FSI in the future?
We want to be the go-to platform for anyone who wants to do something good, and they can come to us because they know that we have an opportunity that's suitable for them to bring their resources and skills.
For the Community Business Support Program, specifically for GuideFong, it's quite similar: anybody in Hong Kong who wants to support small businesses and small neighborhood shops can come to us and look for these [local businesses].
Last year, we tried getting a bit more visible by holding a bazaar. This year, we scaled up!
Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)Courtesy of Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI)
We held a “Know Your GuideFong: TST Edition” event where we had a pop-up market at the Heath Hong Kong, the basement mall under Chungking Mansions. We had an afternoon-long treasure hunt where people were given a map of GuideFong shops they could shop from to redeem a prize.
We were especially excited for cross-sector collaboration to support these small businesses that are hidden gems in Hong Kong, that shouldn't be hidden anymore.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Read more about FSI’s “Know Your GuideFong: TST” event held on July 6th, 2025 here.
Learn more about the Foundation for Shared Impact here, and follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for more updates!
Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Executive Impact profiles here.
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Hong Kong has been named the “Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year” by CrescentRating, a global authority on halal travel, during the Halal in Travel Awards 2025. The city also climbed to third place in the “Muslim-friendly Destinations (non-Organization of Islamic Cooperation)” category of the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025.
Organised in partnership with Mastercard, the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) covers 153 destinations around the world and examines aspects including halal food supply, accommodation, Muslim-friendly facilities, and other travel-related factors to evaluate how welcoming destinations are to Muslim visitors.
Apart from their awards, Hong Kong also gained first place in the “Muslim-friendly Accessible Travel Destination (non-OIC)” category and second place in the “Muslim Women Friendly Travel Destinations (non-OIC)” category.
Courtesy of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)
In addition to the city-wide recognition, various hotels, attractions, and venues were also honoured:
The Mira Hong Kong – Muslim-friendly Hotel of the Year
Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong – Muslim-friendly Hotel of the Year
Ngong Ping 360 – Muslim-friendly Attraction of the Year
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre – Muslim-friendly Convention and Exhibition Centre of the Year.
Dr. Peter Lam, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), highlighted Hong Kong’s efforts towards inclusivity by saying, “We have also facilitated the fostering of closer ties between Hong Kong, the Middle East, and ASEAN countries in recent years. HKTB thanks the Government for its full support and our trade partners for their efforts in elevating the city’s Muslim-friendly tourism facilities.”
Courtesy of the Hong Kong Tourism Board
The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) continues to spotlight the city and its development as a Muslim-friendly destination through a three-pronged approach of accreditation, education, and promotion.
Currently, about 190 eateries in Hong Kong have been certified, rising from the original 100 in early 2024. More than 60 hotels, attractions, and convention and exhibition venues have also been rated as Muslim-friendly.
The HKTB also continues to promote Hong Kong as a Muslim-friendly destination through a variety of channels and targeted marketing in Muslim visitor source markets.
Learn more about the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s (HTKB) efforts and Muslim-friendly offerings through DiscoverHongKong.com. Follow the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for more information.
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