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Hong Kong, 27 October 2026 – Ms. Judy Chen, Chairman of UNICEF HK, was invited to speak at the "Hong Kong Quality And Talent Migrants Association Talent Forum" co-organised by the Hong Kong Quality And Talent Migrants Association (HKQTMA) and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, on 22 October. Joining government officials, academics, and industry leaders, Ms. Chen explored the integration and future prospects of international talent in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA). The event attracted enthusiastic participation, with over 300 guests and students attending in person and cumulative online viewership surpassing one million.

As an advocate for child and youth well-being, Ms. Chen addressed the audience during the keynote session and panel discussion, offering profound insights gained from years of dedicated service to children: "Children learn trust before calculation. A person’s first step in socialisation is not building a resume, but developing a sense of belonging." She emphasised that future talent competition lies not only in hard skills like AI, finance, or biotechnology, but more importantly in empathy—the ability to connect and understand others. Highlighting that "children are the mirror of the world," she underscored that building "Child-Friendly Cities" is essential to nurturing the next generation and encouraging talent to anchor their lives locally.

Ms. Chen noted that a city offering a child-friendly environment provides a safe, healthy, and inclusive foundation for the children of both local residents and new arrivals, reflecting the true warmth and cohesion of a society. For international talent and young people to integrate successfully, they need not only a stage for career opportunity, but also warmth and a sense of belonging. Through the synergy of philanthropy and education, community engagement can serve as a valuable entry point to foster mutual understanding, bridge divides, and building an empathetic and thriving ecosystem.

UNICEF HK will continue to advocate for the Child-Friendly City Initiative, empowering the young generation with empathy and compassion to help shape a more inclusive future.

Officiating guests pose for a group photo at the inaugural HKQTMA Talent Forum, including Mr. Chris Sun, Secretary for Labour and Welfare (fourth right), and Ms. Judy Chen, Chairman of UNICEF HK (fourth left).

Ms. Judy Chen, Chairman of UNICEF HK, delivers her speech at the inaugural HKQTMA Talent Forum, addressing youth development, talent integration, and the importance of building Child Friendly Cities.