Insights from the First PRME Working Group Anti-Poverty Colloquium in Hong Kong, China

The first PRME Anti-Poverty Colloquium, convened by PRME Working Group on Anti-Poverty Co-Chair Prof. Shirley Yeung, was held on 7 February, 2026 at Gratia Christian College in Hong Kong, China. The event brought together nearly 40 participants and marked an important milestone for the PRME Anti-Poverty Steering Committee. The Colloquium served as a collaborative platform to advance dialogue and action on applying the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ESG frameworks to anti-poverty initiatives, guided by seven core principles, including values and purpose.

The event was supported by the School of Business at Gratia Christian College, ESG Society, ESGILINK, Evergreen, and Hong Kong Shue Yan University.

Participants represented diverse sectors, including members of Rotary International (Rotary Club), BNI, faculty from Hong Kong Shue Yan University, a delegate from the Museum of Climate Change, students and alumni from Gratia Christian College, graduates of Columbia University, winners of the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation Entrepreneurship Academy, and a consultant from the World Bank. The Colloquium also welcomed participants from seven countries, including Thailand, Egypt, India, China, Serbia, the United States, and Zimbabwe, reflecting its growing international reach.

Speakers shared practical experiences and concrete examples of influencing behavioural change to address poverty and vulnerability. One participant shared, "It was fantastic to learn about the insights from each speaker. Dr. Tan delivered his powerpoint about the changing world so well. He raised concerns about the next generation and emphasized that poverty is not just about a lack of money, but also about vulnerability. I believe Generation Z is indeed the most vulnerable group today. Many young people are facing unemployment and increased job insecurity as automation and artificial intelligence reshape the workforce. Compared to previous generations, they are entering a labor market where they must build experience while simultaneously adapting to rapid technological change.”

Ms. Jamie Chu, President of Rotary Butterfly Hong Kong, gave an inspiring speech about her work helping homeless and poor individuals. Her contributions are deeply meaningful to Hong Kong society.

Following a brief review by Milenko, Founder of the Anti-Poverty Working Group, and Prof. Shirley Yeung, plans are underway to convene a second Anti-Poverty Colloquium within the next six months to continue advancing collaborative, SDG-aligned action in responsible management education and community engagement.