KELY

We collaborate with schools and other partners to offer programmes to youth between the ages of 14 and 24 around our 3 core focus areas.

Contact Info

2/F East Wing
12 Borrett Road
Central, Hong Kong
2521 6890
contact@kely.org

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Open Door Work Placement Programme

Empowering ethnic minority youth through career development

Proudly supported by Prudential Hong Kong Limited, the Open Door Work Placement Programme addresses the crucial need for career development opportunities among ethnic minority (EM) youths in Hong Kong. 

In 2023, with support from Prudential and KELY Youth Advisory Council composed of local secondary school and university students, undertook the significant task of conducting the Ethnic Minority Youth Employment Survey. Survey findings revealed that over 80% of EM youth recognised the value of internships but faced barriers in accessing these opportunities, significantly impacting their mental health and career prospects. This insight has been instrumental in shaping the focus and structure of our programme. 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Prudential for their ongoing support and commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of these young individuals. Their contribution not only supports the logistical and financial aspects of the programme, but also enriches the developmental experiences of the participants.

Join us in supporting a brighter, more inclusive future for ethnic minority youths in Hong Kong.


About the Programme

The Open Door Work Placement Programme offers essential employment skills training and subsidised work placements in various industries, specifically tailored for upper secondary students, recent secondary school graduates, and university or college students from ethnic minority backgrounds.

The programme significantly enhances the employability and ambitions of ethnic minority youths, promoting mental wellbeing and social inclusion. It serves as a foundation for their successful future, helping them to overcome barriers, build connections, and discover their potential.

  1. Employment Skills Training
    A mandatory 3-day session prepares participants (EM youths) with essential knowledge and practical skills for the workforce.
  2. Subsidised Work Placements
    Participants engage in a 4-week (160 hours) hands-on work placement, enhancing their understanding of professional environments and developing critical vocational skills.
  3. Cultural Integration
    The programme facilitates understanding and integration between EM youths and employers, promoting a culturally inclusive workplace.
  • Successful Placements
    In 2023, 20 students were provided placements at 10 different SMEs, gaining invaluable industry experience.
  • Cultural and Professional Exchange
    The interaction between participants and SMEs has fostered greater mutual understanding and professional growth.
  • Strategic Insights
    Insights from the Youth Employment Survey have directly influenced programme improvements and targeted support strategies.

2023 Open Door 01
2023 Open Door 02
2023 Open Door 03
2023 Open Door 04

2024 Programme Details

  • Employer Online Briefing | 19 Jun 2024 (Wed) 
  • Pre-employment Training and Employer / Youth Face-to-Face Interview | Jul 2024
  • Interview and Placement Result Announcement | 22 Jul 2024 (Mon)
  • Four-Week (160 hours) Placement Period | Jul - Aug 2024
  • Graduation Ceremony | Sep 2024

We welcome applications from upper secondary students, recent secondary school graduates, and university or college students who come from ethnic minority backgrounds. Whether you are just starting out or looking to shift gears in your career, our programme is designed to help you take that next step.

Start your journey by submitting an online application!

For Students
Please click here for the application form. This is your chance to tell us about yourself and what you hope to achieve through your participation!

For SMEs Owners
Please click here to share more details with us and our staff will be in touch shortly.

Your enthusiasm and commitment are crucial. We seek participants who are eager to learn and ready to adapt to diverse work environments. Prior work experience is not necessary — we are more interested in your potential and your drive to succeed.

Real-World Experience
Participate in a 4-week (160 hours) hands-on work placement with an organization that fits your career interests. This is a chance to apply what you've learned in a real workplace setting.

Professional Training
Before you begin your placement, you'll complete a mandatory 3-day training session that equips you with essential employment skills and practical knowledge needed in today’s job market.

Enhanced Employability
Through direct industry exposure and hands-on practice, you'll develop skills that enhance your job prospects.

Networking Opportunities
Connect with professionals and potential employers who can play a pivotal role in your career development.

This comprehensive approach ensures not only skill development but also provides a platform to demonstrate your capabilities in a professional setting, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.

SME Participation
The Open Door Programme welcomes SMEs to offer placement positions at your company / organisation. Prudential generously covers administrative costs and subsidises intern salaries for SMEs that participate in the programme. Please click here to share your details with us if you are interested.

Non-SMEs and Other Supporters' Participation
Please contact us for further discussion on how you can support this transformative initiative.

Testimonials

Through this programme, I've enhanced my design skills significantly. During my placement, I had the opportunity to create various logos and posters and work on a PowerPoint presentation for our colleagues to use with their clients. Moreover, my communication skills have greatly improved. We conducted surveys and interviewed people on the street, exposing me to different communication styles and making me more adaptable.

I've also become more comfortable and confident in the workplace. Two weeks of experience allowed me to adapt better, so in the future, I won't feel as nervous during workplace outings. I'm more at ease because I've done it before. I've gained insights into how to communicate with senior colleagues and ask for help when needed.

I found the graduation ceremony quite valuable. It provided a deeper insight into the future and the various paths we can explore. The post-programme sharing was exceptionally useful because the guest speakers shared inspirational stories and advice that resonated with us, especially as we're just starting our journey. It gave us a clearer idea of what the future holds. Additionally, the guidance on resume building, interviews, and CV skills was beneficial, even though we had some prior knowledge, the insights shared by the guest experts were especially helpful.

Please refer to our press release.

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