(只提供英文版本)Event kick-off. Held on 13 November at the Hall of GAStronomy of the International Culinary Institute (ICI) where over 60 local and non-local students gathered with VTC senior management, the High Table Dinner and Appointment Ceremony for VTC Globalites opened with a cocktail reception at the Café Manson, followed by the welcoming remark of VTC Chairman, Mr Tony TAI.
"As international interaction has grown more frequent, it is important for the young generation to acquire global competencies to tap into the emerging opportunities worldwide," said Mr TAI.
Themed "Gateway to Global Opportunities", the event aimed at equipping VTC students with international vision and offering them an opportunity to practice dining etiquette, and for students from ICI to apply what they have learnt into practice.
Secret behind the Finns' happiness. To help students expand their horizons without travelling, it was our great pleasure to have the Consul General of Finland in Hong Kong and Macao, Ms Johanna KARANKO, delivered a dinner talk on "Finland's success factors of being the world's happiest country and the opportunities for the young people", sharing with the audience about their secret to happiness. Guests learnt the great importance the Finnish Government attaches to the transparency of government practices, political and civil freedom, healthcare and income security, gender equality, prenatal care, work-life balance and equal access to education. The informative talk led to overwhelming responses from students, as seen in their eagerness to ask Ms KARANKO questions after the talk, no doubt they were inspired to explore new chances and opportunities on the other side of the world.
Welcoming the VTC Globalites. After the 6-member officiating party led by VTC Chairman Mr Tony TAI joined for a toast to announce the official start of the High Table Dinner, the audiences learnt about the new VTC Globalites programme, which is an experiential learning scheme initiated by the VTC International Development Office aiming to enhance students' global mindset and to nurture them to be better global citizens. New VTC Globalites recruited in AY2020/21 were then being officially appointed, kicking start their journey to many rewarding and unforgettable experiences that are sure to come.
Three VTC Globalites also showcased their talents on stage to offer guests a truly memorable evening. The masterful flute performance by Chelsee MOK, student of Bachelor of Science in Surveying at THEi (Chai Wan), marked the start of the show. The dinner reached a climax with the splendid singing performance by Marina WONG, student of Higher Diploma in Wine and Beverage Business Management at ICI. Jason WOO, student of Higher Diploma in Digital Music and Media at HKDI, rounded out the exquisite performance session with his piano recital.
The dinner concluded with a round of big applause to all ICI students, teachers and staff gathered in the dining hall, who offered excellent hospitality and the gourmet dinner that contributed to making the night an indelible occasion.