Opportunities await if you embrace country’s achievements, NGO executive director tells Hong Kong youth
But Our Hong Kong Foundation executive director dismisses perceptions think-tank is just a mouthpiece for the SAR government and Beijing
Twice named one of the “World’s 100 Most Powerful Women” by Forbes Magazine, former Amway Corporation executive Eva Cheng Li Kam-fun has chosen to take on a different and significantly more difficult challenge since retiring in 2011 – solving Hong Kong’s problems.
“Mission impossible”, some would say, but Cheng believes that in her new role as executive director of NGO think-tank Our Hong Kong Foundation, it can be accomplished through engagement with the community and presenting sound policy recommendations to the government.
Lack of social mobility and dwindling job prospects are issues affecting many young Hong Kong people, who believe the city’s best days are behind it as most industries are now at a mature stage. However, Cheng is confident its future lies in technology, and Hongkongers should look towards the mainland for opportunities and tap its massive market.
Our Hong Kong Foundation has organised InnoTech Expo 2016, its first innovation and technology event, showcasing science and technology achievements from the mainland. Notable Chinese scientists and technology experts will also be presenting keynote speeches hoping to inspire a new generation of science and technology enthusiasts.
The event runs from September 24 to October 1 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Q: Why did you decide to get involved with Our Hong Kong Foundation? A: I have worked for 34 years for an American company, and I retired in 2011. As with all things in life, we make twists and turns, and on one occasion [former Hong Kong chief executive] Mr Tung Chee-hwa talked to me about setting up a think-tank or a foundation. I said [to him]: ‘I’ve never worked for a foundation or a think-tank before. I’m not sure exactly what it is.’ Mr Tung [in his typical way] said: ‘Well, don’t worry, we’ll do it together and we’ll explore this,’ and I thought, it’s a good opportunity. I think on the one hand I’m probably too young to retire, [and on the other] age-wise I’m no longer a young girl – I consider this an adventure.