Hong Kong's Philanthropy Week: A Global Gathering for Change
September 10, 2024, 10:30 pm
Location: Indonesia, Jakarta Special Capital Region
Employees: 201-500
Founded date: 1981
In the heart of Hong Kong, a significant event unfolded. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust hosted the fourth Philanthropy for Better Cities (PBC) Forum. This gathering, held at the West Kowloon Cultural District, marked the beginning of Hong Kong Philanthropy Week. It was a vibrant tapestry of ideas, cultures, and aspirations, woven together by a shared commitment to social betterment.
The PBC Forum is not just a meeting; it’s a launchpad for transformative ideas. With nearly 100 speakers and over 2,000 delegates from 40 countries, the forum is a melting pot of perspectives. Foundations, policymakers, and thought leaders converged to discuss impactful philanthropy. The theme, "Delivering Impactful Philanthropy in the Real World," resonated throughout the two-day event.
The forum's significance extends beyond its immediate discussions. It aligns with the HKSAR Government's vision to position Hong Kong as a global philanthropy hub. The Chief Executive of Hong Kong emphasized this commitment in a video address. He highlighted the government's dedication to providing philanthropists with the tools to channel their resources effectively. This vision aims to make Hong Kong a beacon for global family offices eager to make a difference.
The opening ceremony was a spectacle. Key figures from the government and the Jockey Club graced the stage. The Chief Secretary for Administration, Chan Kwok-ki, and Club Chairman Michael Lee spoke about the rapid growth of philanthropy in Asia. They acknowledged the unique challenges and opportunities in the region. Asian philanthropy, they noted, requires tailored models that reflect diverse political, economic, and cultural landscapes.
Among the notable participants were leading foundations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation. Their presence underscored the forum's global significance. Julia Gillard, former Prime Minister of Australia, delivered a keynote address that explored the differences in philanthropic approaches between East and West. Her insights sparked discussions on collaboration and shared goals.
Another highlight was Professor Michael Spence's keynote on the economics of giving. He delved into the motivations behind charitable contributions. What drives people to give? What holds them back? These questions are crucial for understanding how to enhance philanthropic efforts.
The forum also witnessed a significant collaboration. A Memorandum of Collaboration was signed between the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention and three local universities. This partnership aims to bolster epidemic response capabilities in the Greater Bay Area. It reflects the forum's commitment to addressing pressing health challenges through collective action.
The week-long program began with a welcome luncheon, coinciding with the start of Hong Kong's 2024/25 horseracing season. This festive atmosphere set the tone for the discussions to follow. Side events and additional gatherings are scheduled, ensuring that the momentum continues beyond the forum.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club's support for the PBC Forum is rooted in its unique business model. Through racing and wagering, the Club generates substantial tax contributions and charity support. In the 2023/24 fiscal year, it returned HK$40.1 billion to the community. This includes significant contributions to the HKSAR Government and approved charity donations. The Club stands as Hong Kong's largest single taxpayer and a major employer, reinforcing its role as a pillar of the community.
The Institute of Philanthropy (IoP), launched by the Jockey Club, plays a pivotal role in this ecosystem. Established as a "think-fund-do" tank, the IoP aims to enhance philanthropic capabilities across Asia. With a seed grant of HK$6.8 billion, it seeks to foster collaboration among global stakeholders. The IoP is dedicated to promoting thought leadership in philanthropy, ensuring that innovative ideas find fertile ground.
As the forum unfolds, it becomes clear that philanthropy is more than just giving. It’s about creating sustainable impact. It’s about understanding the nuances of different cultures and contexts. The discussions at the PBC Forum reflect a growing recognition of these complexities.
In a world facing myriad challenges, the need for effective philanthropy has never been greater. The PBC Forum serves as a reminder that collective action can lead to meaningful change. It’s a call to arms for philanthropists, foundations, and governments alike. Together, they can tackle social and environmental issues head-on.
As Hong Kong Philanthropy Week progresses, the spirit of collaboration and innovation shines brightly. The forum is not just an event; it’s a movement. A movement towards a better future, where philanthropy is a powerful force for good. The world is watching, and Hong Kong is ready to lead the way.
In conclusion, the PBC Forum encapsulates the essence of modern philanthropy. It’s about dialogue, partnership, and shared responsibility. As delegates return to their corners of the globe, they carry with them not just ideas, but a renewed commitment to making a difference. The journey towards impactful philanthropy is just beginning, and Hong Kong stands at the forefront.
The PBC Forum is not just a meeting; it’s a launchpad for transformative ideas. With nearly 100 speakers and over 2,000 delegates from 40 countries, the forum is a melting pot of perspectives. Foundations, policymakers, and thought leaders converged to discuss impactful philanthropy. The theme, "Delivering Impactful Philanthropy in the Real World," resonated throughout the two-day event.
The forum's significance extends beyond its immediate discussions. It aligns with the HKSAR Government's vision to position Hong Kong as a global philanthropy hub. The Chief Executive of Hong Kong emphasized this commitment in a video address. He highlighted the government's dedication to providing philanthropists with the tools to channel their resources effectively. This vision aims to make Hong Kong a beacon for global family offices eager to make a difference.
The opening ceremony was a spectacle. Key figures from the government and the Jockey Club graced the stage. The Chief Secretary for Administration, Chan Kwok-ki, and Club Chairman Michael Lee spoke about the rapid growth of philanthropy in Asia. They acknowledged the unique challenges and opportunities in the region. Asian philanthropy, they noted, requires tailored models that reflect diverse political, economic, and cultural landscapes.
Among the notable participants were leading foundations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation. Their presence underscored the forum's global significance. Julia Gillard, former Prime Minister of Australia, delivered a keynote address that explored the differences in philanthropic approaches between East and West. Her insights sparked discussions on collaboration and shared goals.
Another highlight was Professor Michael Spence's keynote on the economics of giving. He delved into the motivations behind charitable contributions. What drives people to give? What holds them back? These questions are crucial for understanding how to enhance philanthropic efforts.
The forum also witnessed a significant collaboration. A Memorandum of Collaboration was signed between the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention and three local universities. This partnership aims to bolster epidemic response capabilities in the Greater Bay Area. It reflects the forum's commitment to addressing pressing health challenges through collective action.
The week-long program began with a welcome luncheon, coinciding with the start of Hong Kong's 2024/25 horseracing season. This festive atmosphere set the tone for the discussions to follow. Side events and additional gatherings are scheduled, ensuring that the momentum continues beyond the forum.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club's support for the PBC Forum is rooted in its unique business model. Through racing and wagering, the Club generates substantial tax contributions and charity support. In the 2023/24 fiscal year, it returned HK$40.1 billion to the community. This includes significant contributions to the HKSAR Government and approved charity donations. The Club stands as Hong Kong's largest single taxpayer and a major employer, reinforcing its role as a pillar of the community.
The Institute of Philanthropy (IoP), launched by the Jockey Club, plays a pivotal role in this ecosystem. Established as a "think-fund-do" tank, the IoP aims to enhance philanthropic capabilities across Asia. With a seed grant of HK$6.8 billion, it seeks to foster collaboration among global stakeholders. The IoP is dedicated to promoting thought leadership in philanthropy, ensuring that innovative ideas find fertile ground.
As the forum unfolds, it becomes clear that philanthropy is more than just giving. It’s about creating sustainable impact. It’s about understanding the nuances of different cultures and contexts. The discussions at the PBC Forum reflect a growing recognition of these complexities.
In a world facing myriad challenges, the need for effective philanthropy has never been greater. The PBC Forum serves as a reminder that collective action can lead to meaningful change. It’s a call to arms for philanthropists, foundations, and governments alike. Together, they can tackle social and environmental issues head-on.
As Hong Kong Philanthropy Week progresses, the spirit of collaboration and innovation shines brightly. The forum is not just an event; it’s a movement. A movement towards a better future, where philanthropy is a powerful force for good. The world is watching, and Hong Kong is ready to lead the way.
In conclusion, the PBC Forum encapsulates the essence of modern philanthropy. It’s about dialogue, partnership, and shared responsibility. As delegates return to their corners of the globe, they carry with them not just ideas, but a renewed commitment to making a difference. The journey towards impactful philanthropy is just beginning, and Hong Kong stands at the forefront.