Empowering Ethnic Minority Youth: My Journey as a Volunteer with KELY Support Group
Written by: Volunteer – Miss. Aashka Tibrewal
As an ethnic minority (EM) professional in Hong Kong, I’ve experienced firsthand the unique challenges many of us face—navigating language barriers, bridging cultural gaps, and often feeling the need to work twice as hard to prove our worth in majority-local teams. These hurdles can feel daunting, but they also fuel my passion for creating change. That’s why I’m proud to volunteer with KELY Support Group. Knowing that KELY is now offering the summer internship opportunities for the Ethnic minority Youth under the Open Door Work Placement Programme that funded by Prudential Hong Kong Limited, a transformative initiative that empowers EM youth to thrive in inclusive workplaces.
This programme is more than just a work placement opportunity—it’s a lifeline for young people who might otherwise feel overlooked. By partnering with forward-thinking employers like Prudential Hong Kong Limited and other SMEs & organisations who champion diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), the programme creates spaces where EM youth can gain meaningful professional experience, build confidence, and showcase their talents. From mentorship to cultural celebrations and inclusive policies, the programme ensures that diversity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a lived reality.
These young individuals flourishing in supportive environments is a powerful reminder that inclusion is a verb. It requires action, commitment, and a willingness to amplify diverse voices. As a volunteer, I’ve seen EM youth transform from hesitant participants to confident professionals, ready to take on the world. Their success stories inspire me to keep advocating for workplaces where every individual, regardless of background, feels valued and empowered.
To my fellow EM professionals and allies: let’s continue supporting KELY’s work to empower Youth to reach out their full potentials. Let’s push for workplaces that don’t just welcome diversity but celebrate and amplify it. Together, we can build a future where every young person has the opportunity to shine.
This article has been shared with the approval of Prudential.
About KELY Support Group
KELY Support Group (KELY) is a Hong Kong-based nonprofit organisation whose mission since 1991 is to equip young people with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to support themselves and each other. KELY envision a world where young people are empowered to reach their full potential, and collaborate with schools and various partners to offer programmes to Chinese- and English-speaking youth between the ages of 14 and 24 around our three core focus areas: Mental Health and Wellbeing, Drug and Alcohol Awareness, and Positive Youth Development. Please visit KELY.ORG for more information.
