HSBC and Love 21 Foundation collaborated on a Mentorship Programme, in which a volunteer mentor was assigned to each mentee with Down Syndrome or autism for employment training.

Responsible for bridging the communication between Love 21 foundation, mentees and HSBC mentors, I acquired effective communication strategies to balance the needs and resolve the conflicts between different stakeholders. A true leader shall be accountable for her words and actions, given the power to navigate negative or positive changes. I learnt my lesson to approach interactions with diverse stakeholders with cultural sensitivity.

Entrusted with the task of managing the HSBC GameChanger Financial Workshop, as the only representative of Love 21 Foundation, I gained my first experience ever to overlook a formal function on my own. Owing to unanticipated absence of a mentor, I volunteered to accompany a mentee with Down Syndrome, whom I built rapport with and motivated active participation. It was uplifting to hear positive feedback from mentors, mentees and their caregivers.

Although planning was vital, rather than rigid adherence, I cultivated adaptability to tackle unexpected hiccups with calmness. A true leader shall be equipped with flexibility and resilience, particularly in dynamic environments.