From 28th July to 1st August, 2024, S4C student Wan Choi Ting Emily represented Hong Kong at the Asian and Oceanian High School Students’ Forum held in Wakayama, Japan. The forum aims to develop the ability of high school students in the Asia-Pacific region to see issues from a global perspective by exchanging opinions with peers from various Asian and Oceanian countries/areas on global challenges such as natural hazards, poverty, and diversity. Additionally, through opportunities to convey their ideas to others, the forum seeks to foster leaders who can play active roles in international society.
Here is the reflection by Emily Wan.
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Aiming to nurture future leaders and enhance the global perspective of high school students, the Asian and Oceanian High School Students’ Forum is an international event organized by the Wakayama Prefecture Government. This forum includes students from various countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including Indonesia, Thailand, South Korea, Australia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Turkey, and more. By discussing pressing global issues such as poverty, diversity, and measures against tsunamis and disasters, participants can learn about different cultures and broaden their perspectives. Hoping to enhance my public speaking skills and deepen my understanding of various cultures, I decided to participate in this forum. It was indeed a rewarding and valuable experience that expanded my horizons.
During the Opening Ceremony, I had the great honour of presenting my research on the challenges faced by non-Chinese speaking (NCS) students in Hong Kong as a demonstration in front of the Governor of Wakayama Prefecture, the President of the Wakayama International Exchange Association, local TV crew members, and fellow student participants from Japan and other countries. The following day, I attended the Sectional Meeting, where I listened to other students present their research. As a participant in the diversity category, I learned about various aspects of diversity issues worldwide. For instance, the representative from Korea shared his research on political diversity and the performance of leaders, while the representative from Vietnam presented her views on the unfair treatment and discrimination that athletes face in sports events. Other diversity issues explored included the concept of alternative families, promoting diversity in the workplace, and addressing gender stereotypes in Japan.
Our work did not end with the Sectional Meeting. In the evening, we convened to summarize the key findings from our individual research and prepare a group presentation for the upcoming General Meeting, where we would lead a discussion on the most pressing diversity issues and produce a concluding statement. By listening to diverse research on these issues and collaborating with different participants, I gained a better understanding of diversity and inclusion around the world and improved my teamwork skills.
Another memorable occasion was the Welcome Reception hosted by the Governor of Wakayama Prefecture. At the reception, participants from various countries wore traditional ethnic costumes and performed traditional dances and songs. It was truly enjoyable to watch these performances and engage in conversations with participants from other research categories. After much friendly chitchat and endless group selfies, I made friends with participants from different parts of Japan and other Asia-Pacific countries, which helped me become better acquainted with various cultures.
While this forum was undoubtedly a valuable experience, I did encounter several challenges along the way. I struggled to select a suitable research topic, and after deciding on a subject, I found it difficult to create the PowerPoint presentation and write the script for my 20-minute talk. Another major challenge was my limited public speaking ability. I felt constant stress and anxiety leading up to the forum. Fortunately, with the help and support of Miss Tsui, my friends, and my family, I was able to successfully complete my presentation.
After this forum, I have realized that my self-confidence and speaking skills have significantly improved. I am no longer afraid of speaking in front of others and have become more confident working in teams with people I am not familiar with. Additionally, I have made many new friends with whom I have kept in touch. This forum has proven to be more valuable than I ever imagined.
This forum is indeed significant and has heightened my attention and interest in various global affairs. I would like to thank all the organizers, supporters, helpers, and teachers involved in this forum. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to challenge myself.
Footage of the Forum by local TV (0:14-11:40)
