HKUST Impact Makers Celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival through Connection and Companionship
As families across Hong Kong gathered to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, a group of HKUST Impact Makers and volunteers from Hip Hing Construction came together to bring festive joy to seniors at the Hong Kong Family Welfare Society.
On 25 September, the volunteers joined hands to spend a meaningful morning with 15 elderly participants, creating opportunities for connection and companionship. We partnered up with Hip Hing Construction, the contractor responsible for building HKUST's future Medical School, demonstrating how community partnerships can create positive social impact beyond the workplace.
While festivals are a time for togetherness, they can also be a lonely period for some older adults. Meaningful conversations and opportunities to connect with others can make a real difference to their wellbeing and quality of life.
The celebration began with an egg yolk pastry workshop. Participants added their own creative flair with the assistance from the volunteers, and they transformed the dough into different imaginative shapes that brought smiles to everyone in the room. After that, the seniors enthusiastically answering questions for a chance to win prizes. A lucky draw followed, filling the room with excitement and chatters, and everyone ended up being winners!. Throughout the morning, volunteers and seniors shared stories, exchanged experiences, and formed connections that transcended generations.
For many volunteers, the experience was just as meaningful as the impact they hoped to create.
"Volunteering with the elderly last week reminded me that, no matter how energetic and independent we once were, one day we may all need the same care, encouragement and patience that we would give to a child. Their happiness was simple: companionship and conversation. Just a few hours together brought comfort, connection and smiles that felt truly meaningful."
Anonymous volunteer
"We serve while being served in return. The kindness and energy from the elders were so uplifting."
Michael Lee, SUST
"Compassion starts at home, but we can extend that respect to the elders of others."
Venia Mak, Library
Beyond the pastries, prizes and mooncakes, it was the conversations, companionship and shared moments that left the deepest impression. The event reinforced how small acts of kindness can help combat loneliness, strengthen social connections, and remind seniors that they are valued, remembered and cared for.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our Impact Makers and all volunteers from Hip Hing Construction who contributed their time and enthusiasm to make this Mid-Autumn Festival celebration a memorable one. Together, we created not only a joyful festive experience, but also meaningful connections that helped brighten the day for everyone involved.
