Philanthropy Takes Center Stage in Hong Kong Amid Global Challenges
September 10, 2024, 9:58 pm
Location: Switzerland, Geneva, Chambésy
Employees: 5001-10000
Founded date: 1948
In a world where giving often feels like a drop in the ocean, the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust is making waves. The fourth Philanthropy for Better Cities (PBC) Forum kicked off on September 9, 2024, in the vibrant West Kowloon Cultural District. This event is not just a gathering; it’s a clarion call for change. It heralds the start of Hong Kong Philanthropy Week, a bold initiative aimed at positioning the city as a global hub for philanthropy.
The PBC Forum is a melting pot of ideas. It brings together nearly 100 speakers and over 2,000 delegates from 40 countries. Foundations, policymakers, and thought leaders converge to share insights on impactful philanthropy. The theme, "Delivering Impactful Philanthropy in the Real World," resonates deeply. It’s about turning good intentions into tangible results.
The Hong Kong government is backing this movement. Chief Executive John Lee emphasized the city’s commitment to philanthropy. His vision is clear: equip philanthropists with the tools to manage their wealth while channeling resources into social initiatives. The goal? Transform Hong Kong into a beacon for global family offices eager to make a difference.
The opening ceremony set the tone. Key figures like Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki and Club Chairman Michael Lee spoke about the rapid growth of philanthropy in Asia. The region is home to burgeoning economies and a rising tide of charitable giving. Yet, there’s a caveat. Asian philanthropy needs tailored models that reflect its unique political, economic, and cultural landscapes. The challenge is to unlock its full potential to tackle shared social and environmental issues.
Prominent foundations are stepping up. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Rockefeller Foundation, and others are participating. Their presence underscores the forum's significance. Julia Gillard, former Prime Minister of Australia, delivered a keynote address exploring the differences between Eastern and Western philanthropy. Her insights are crucial in fostering collaboration across borders.
The forum isn’t just talk. It’s action-oriented. A Memorandum of Collaboration was signed between the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention and local universities. This partnership aims to enhance epidemic response capabilities in the Greater Bay Area. It’s a testament to the forum’s commitment to addressing real-world challenges through collaborative efforts.
The program spans five days, kicking off with a welcome luncheon for the 2024/25 horseracing season. Side events will continue through September 14, showcasing the diverse facets of philanthropy. The Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy will also host a summit, rounding out the week’s activities.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club operates on a unique model. Racing and wagering generate funds that support community initiatives. In the last fiscal year, the Club returned HK$40.1 billion to the community. This includes substantial contributions to the government and charity donations. It’s a powerful example of how business can fuel social good.
The Institute of Philanthropy (IoP) plays a pivotal role in this ecosystem. Launched in 2023 with a generous seed grant, the IoP aims to enhance philanthropic thought leadership in Asia. It serves as a platform for global stakeholders to collaborate and promote societal betterment.
While Hong Kong shines as a philanthropy hub, the world faces pressing challenges. In Gaza, a polio vaccination campaign is underway amidst chaos. Health officials are racing against time to vaccinate 200,000 children. Access restrictions and fuel shortages complicate the effort. Yet, medical staff are determined to make it work, even in the face of adversity.
The stark contrast between Hong Kong’s philanthropic ambitions and Gaza’s urgent health crisis highlights the complexities of global philanthropy. While one region seeks to elevate its charitable efforts, another grapples with the basics of health and safety. This duality underscores the need for a more interconnected approach to philanthropy.
As the PBC Forum unfolds, it serves as a reminder. Philanthropy is not just about giving; it’s about impact. It’s about understanding the unique challenges faced by different regions and crafting solutions that resonate. The conversations sparked at this forum could ignite a movement, one that transcends borders and cultures.
In conclusion, the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum is more than an event; it’s a catalyst for change. It challenges us to rethink our approach to giving. It encourages collaboration and innovation. As Hong Kong steps into the spotlight, the world watches. Will this city become the global philanthropy hub it aspires to be? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the journey has begun.
The PBC Forum is a melting pot of ideas. It brings together nearly 100 speakers and over 2,000 delegates from 40 countries. Foundations, policymakers, and thought leaders converge to share insights on impactful philanthropy. The theme, "Delivering Impactful Philanthropy in the Real World," resonates deeply. It’s about turning good intentions into tangible results.
The Hong Kong government is backing this movement. Chief Executive John Lee emphasized the city’s commitment to philanthropy. His vision is clear: equip philanthropists with the tools to manage their wealth while channeling resources into social initiatives. The goal? Transform Hong Kong into a beacon for global family offices eager to make a difference.
The opening ceremony set the tone. Key figures like Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki and Club Chairman Michael Lee spoke about the rapid growth of philanthropy in Asia. The region is home to burgeoning economies and a rising tide of charitable giving. Yet, there’s a caveat. Asian philanthropy needs tailored models that reflect its unique political, economic, and cultural landscapes. The challenge is to unlock its full potential to tackle shared social and environmental issues.
Prominent foundations are stepping up. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Rockefeller Foundation, and others are participating. Their presence underscores the forum's significance. Julia Gillard, former Prime Minister of Australia, delivered a keynote address exploring the differences between Eastern and Western philanthropy. Her insights are crucial in fostering collaboration across borders.
The forum isn’t just talk. It’s action-oriented. A Memorandum of Collaboration was signed between the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention and local universities. This partnership aims to enhance epidemic response capabilities in the Greater Bay Area. It’s a testament to the forum’s commitment to addressing real-world challenges through collaborative efforts.
The program spans five days, kicking off with a welcome luncheon for the 2024/25 horseracing season. Side events will continue through September 14, showcasing the diverse facets of philanthropy. The Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy will also host a summit, rounding out the week’s activities.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club operates on a unique model. Racing and wagering generate funds that support community initiatives. In the last fiscal year, the Club returned HK$40.1 billion to the community. This includes substantial contributions to the government and charity donations. It’s a powerful example of how business can fuel social good.
The Institute of Philanthropy (IoP) plays a pivotal role in this ecosystem. Launched in 2023 with a generous seed grant, the IoP aims to enhance philanthropic thought leadership in Asia. It serves as a platform for global stakeholders to collaborate and promote societal betterment.
While Hong Kong shines as a philanthropy hub, the world faces pressing challenges. In Gaza, a polio vaccination campaign is underway amidst chaos. Health officials are racing against time to vaccinate 200,000 children. Access restrictions and fuel shortages complicate the effort. Yet, medical staff are determined to make it work, even in the face of adversity.
The stark contrast between Hong Kong’s philanthropic ambitions and Gaza’s urgent health crisis highlights the complexities of global philanthropy. While one region seeks to elevate its charitable efforts, another grapples with the basics of health and safety. This duality underscores the need for a more interconnected approach to philanthropy.
As the PBC Forum unfolds, it serves as a reminder. Philanthropy is not just about giving; it’s about impact. It’s about understanding the unique challenges faced by different regions and crafting solutions that resonate. The conversations sparked at this forum could ignite a movement, one that transcends borders and cultures.
In conclusion, the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum is more than an event; it’s a catalyst for change. It challenges us to rethink our approach to giving. It encourages collaboration and innovation. As Hong Kong steps into the spotlight, the world watches. Will this city become the global philanthropy hub it aspires to be? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the journey has begun.