Little did Daniel Cai, a recent graduate from Hong Kong Baptist University know that his volunteer experience at the Shanghai Expo would bring him face-to-face with China’s remarkable development and the vibrant diversity of the world.
During his one-week stay in Shanghai, Daniel made friends with an international student from Panama, who shared his love for the Chinese language and culture. Their conversation made him realise the positive impact of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. He also had the chance to chat with merchants and discover exhibits from all corners of the globe, from exquisite carpets in Iran to aromatic spices from Egypt.
But what truly left a lasting impression on Daniel was the opportunity to connect with young people from diverse backgrounds. As an exhibition guide volunteer who studied Geography and Tourism, he engaged in heartfelt conversations with fellow student volunteers from different provinces in China, exchanging stories about college life and career aspirations. Sharing views and learning each other’s dialects, Daniel shattered stereotypes and erased misunderstandings, gaining a deeper appreciation for the lives of mainland China and Hong Kong.
Although Daniel had prior volunteering experience in Hong Kong such as the Hong Kong Young Ambassador Scheme, this was his first venture overseas. The short training time posed a challenge, but he quickly learned to adapt and think on his feet while interacting with tourists and merchants. Navigating through vast exhibition halls and adhering to tight schedules taught him the importance of resourcefulness and adaptability.
Beyond the practical skills he acquired, Daniel emphasised how volunteering nurtured his empathy and broadened his understanding of diverse social groups. This experience allowed him to find his purpose and now he’s determined to inspire his friends to join him in making a difference through service.
Let’s applaud Daniel’s dedication and commitment to creating a positive impact through volunteer work. His journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of volunteering. Together, let’s follow in his footsteps, embrace opportunities for change, and make a lasting difference in our communities.
Check out the latest volunteering opportunities here: https://easyvolunteer.hk
義務工作是改變世界的鑰匙?