Raising a glass with mates helps deprived youngsters discover the joy of reading
Drinking beer was never such a good thing. Guests raised their glasses in support of Room to Read's Beers for Books night at The Pawn in Wan Chai, alongside Australian cricketer Shane Watson, an ambassador of the charity. Room to Read is dedicated to promoting education by establishing libraries for children around the world, and its beer-drinking events are a fun way to raise funds.
Launched in Nepal more than 10 years ago, Room to Read operates in nine countries, including Zambia, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Tanzania is next on the list.
The dim lighting, chatter of the drinkers and clinking of glasses set the mood on Thursday. But Watson was centre stage, surrounded by enthusiastic fans bombarding him with questions and taking photos.
The charity is close to Watson's heart, as he is an avid reader. 'I know how important education is because I used to read a lot, which has been very important in my development as a person,' he said. 'These young kids are very lucky to get the opportunity to read and develop. Through these events we have raised a lot of money, and we are going to continue raising as much money as we can over the next few months and years.'
The Pawn donated HK$10 for every beer sold during the night to the charity.
