HKUST’s Impact Makers Sharing Melodies of Hope to Haven of Hope Hospital
On 12 February 2026, a group of 13 HKUST staff volunteers came together to share ‘Melodies of Hope’ at Haven of Hope Hospital. Their visit added a festive touch as they celebrated the Chinese New Year with patients, spreading joy and music during this special time.
The volunteers have prepared and rehearsed their performance since January. Divided into three groups, the volunteers visited seven different wards to share array of festive songs and Christian hymns. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and happiness as volunteers witnessed firsthand the joy their music brought to the patients. In addition to uplifting spirits, volunteers distributed small gifts, including cozy scarves and towels, to provide comfort during the chilly season.
“Honestly, I didn’t expect the volunteering experience to move me this much. Some of the patients couldn’t speak much, some just smiled quietly, but you could feel the warmth in the room. When we started the familiar tunes, a few patients softly sang along, and for that moment it didn’t feel like a hospital ward at all — it felt like a little New Year gathering. It reminded me how small gestures can carry real meaning. Just showing up, sharing a song, offering a smile — it matters more than we think. If you ever have the chance to join these volunteering activities, I really encourage you to try. It’s only a couple of hours, but what you receive in return stays with you much longer,” reflected Chelsea Zhang from the Human Resources Office.
“It was an unforgettable experience to bring New Year joy to the patients, and I was deeply moved when they clapped and joined us, even if some cannot sing along. It touched me to see that, even though we are not professionals, they were truly happy that we performed for them. I hope our visit brought a bit of warmth during the festive season,” shared Avis Lee from the School of Business and Management.
Gee May Tam from the Office of the Dean of Science and School of Medicine shared, “A truly humbling and rewarding experience, getting to visit the elderlies in their cubicles and watch their faces light up with smiles, some even clapping along to our music. One sweet granny gave us a thumbs up throughout an entire song, which was unforgettable. I hope they enjoyed the moment as much as we did, and I look forward to more opportunities to connect in such a meaningful way!”
“It was a truly joyful experience, embodying the saying, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive,” expressed Daphne Cheung from the Department of Management.
“When you know that you can "do" somethings for others who is in need, and when you learnt that someone who has just a tiny response to what you've done, you will find that the "things" you're giving out is actually for your own good, and it is changing your life too!” shared Ivy Ma from Center for Education Innovation and The Center for the Development of the Gifted and Talented.
This initiative builds on HKUST’s Staff Association’s meaningful partnership with Haven of Hope Hospital. Organized by the University, the ‘Melodies of Hope’ initiative hopes to bring talented staff performers to visit elderly patients that are less mobile, to hopefully bring some joy and light into their days.
In addition to the musical outreach, HKUST organized a charity sale on campus supporting Haven of Hope Christian Services’ Qile Cake Charity Sale in October 2025, with the support of 12 enthusiastic staff volunteers. This event successfully raised vital funds for Haven of Hope Christian Services’ elderly programs, enabling the hospital to enhance its services for those in need. The generosity of our university community exemplifies the commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of elderly patients.
Looking ahead, HKUST plans to continue nurturing its relationship with Haven of Hope Hospital through ongoing volunteer initiatives and fundraising efforts. These activities not only provide essential support to the hospital but also foster a deeper sense of community and connection among staff. By engaging in such meaningful work, our volunteers help create a brighter future for those we serve, reinforcing the values of compassion and service that HKUST stands for.
About the HKUST Impact Makers Program
The Impact Makers Program, organized by the Sustainability / Net-Zero Office in collaboration with the Human Resources Office, encourages staff to dedicate their time to meaningful causes. Volunteering not only supports the community—it also fosters well-being, connection, and team spirit. Participation in these activities is supported under the University’s Special Leave policy.
