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"We believe this exchange under the guidance of professionals and the participation of well-known personalities serving as role models would help youngsters understand how the diverse social factors influence the development of their personality and the establishment of their identity."
"As reflected in the slogan: 'Dare to be different', we hope young people would not be afraid to pursue their individuality within the confines of proper behaviour, and that they would come to accept their own individuality as they accept others." Mr Li added.
About 750 youngsters aged between 15 and 25 took part in the forum activities which included group discussions on the family, education, mass media, commercial culture and politics. They were held under the supervision of social workers.
Guest speakers included legislators Mrs Selina Chow Liang Shuk-yee and Ms Christine Loh Kung-wai: Mr Peter Lam Yuk-wah from the media; and Mr Tsang Yok- sing from the political sector. They spoke to forum participants about their own experiences. There were also performances by pop singers and dramas to stimulate discussions on how to cope with difficult situation in daily life.
The forum, held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, was jointly organised by the Commission on Youth, Hong Kong Council of Social Service, Home Affairs Branch and Social Welfare Department.
End
"Family gathering" warms up young hearts
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Some 230 children shared the Christmas love and joy today (Sunday) with their "father" - the Director of Social Welfare, Mr Ian Strachan - in a hotel in Wan Chai.
To give the "family gathering" more fun, the organisers staged a series of entertaining performances and interesting games, in addition to a delicious buffet lunch and the giving out of Christmas presents to the children. The children, aged between five and 15, are wards of the Director of Social Welfare because their natural parents are unable to exercise their parental right temporarily or on a long-term basis.