Speech by FS at closing session of "Make a Difference" Youth Forum (English only)(with photos/video)

Speech by FS at closing session of "Make a Difference" Youth Forum (English only)(with photos/video)
************************************************************

　　Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr John C Tsang, at the closing session of the "Make a Difference 2012" Youth Forum at Kwai Tsing Theatre today (January 8):

　　Hello everyone.
　　
　　It is my great pleasure to join you again for this, the MaD-est event of the New Year.

　　I hope that you have all had an enjoyable and fruitful time.

　　Our world is changing fast. Our city, our nation and our region are experiencing tremendous changes on all fronts. Rapidly-evolving technology is transforming the way we live, the way we learn and the way we work. How should we position ourselves in the face of such challenges? How should young people equip themselves with the skills and mindset to meet the challenges ahead?

　　These are just some of the issues addressed during this gathering.

　　A few moments ago, I had the great pleasure of meeting this year’s MaD Award finalists and some members of our audience. What impressed me most is their passion and their determination to make a difference.

　　A strong desire to make a difference breeds innovation and change. However, success is not always immediate or guaranteed. Ultimate success often requires that we first learn from our mistakes and failings.

　　Winston Churchill, Former British Prime Minister, once said, and I quote: “Success is never found. Failure is never fatal. Courage is the only thing.” End quote.

　　We should embrace change and we must be willing to take on challenges with courage and fortitude.

　　The theme of this year’s MaD is: “Explore the present, find your place and shape our time”. We should know our strengths and weaknesses, find our own positioning, and get prepared for the challenges ahead.

　　Among the MaD Award finalists this year, we have young people from across Asia who have set clear goals and worked hard to achieve them.

　　We have a “green” company which “upcycles” waste materials for construction, medical and industrial uses. We have a social venture that encompasses the concepts of healthy food, vibrant labour force and happy earth to tackle chronic poverty. We also have a consultancy providing training and research on volunteerism in Mainland China.

　　One thing these MaD Award finalists have in common is that they are driven by young change makers. Successful change makers always have a dream and put their heart and soul into making it come true.

　　Over the past three years, MaD has been inspiring participants to make a difference – to think differently and to create positive changes.

　　I am delighted that MaD has expanded its activities in the build-up to this year’s annual forum. I am also pleased to see a growing number of high-profile speakers sharing their insights on issues that represent the most pressing challenges of our time.

　　The MaD Award has quickly developed into one of the most sought-after awards for young entrepreneurs striving for positive change in Asia.

　　I wish to congratulate Ada, Rachel and their team for bringing such a meaningful event to young people from Hong Kong and around the world. No doubt the young MaDees will have consumed much food for thought during the three-day programme.  Let us continue to dream big; let us continue to think outside the box and let us continue to have the courage to make a difference.

　　Thank you very much and Happy New Year.

Ends/Sunday, January 8, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:05

NNNN