Written by Grace Pow
After learning about the
Life Mentorship Programme from the Institute of Active Ageing’s website (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University,
click here), I decided to apply and joined this meaningful project in November 2021. It aimed at encouraging intergenerational communication through three big events to increase mutual understanding between the two generations. Participants included 16 senior ‘young-old’ adults and 30 undergraduates who study the Applied Ageing Studies programme.
We were divided into 3 groups : Orange, Purple and Green. Our 1
st event was to visit Hong Kong Wetland Park on 22 December. Upon arrival, the 6 Purple and Green sub-groups went to different sites and listened to the instructions of students from the Orange group who had prepared some interesting games for us. We then had to complete all the games within 2 hours.
Though it was the 1
st time we worked together, everyone communicated very well. All the groups could finish the games on time. It was quite warm that day. When a few students knew there were lockers for storage, they helped the mentors to put their extra clothes there and returned to them systematically. I was so happy to have met a group of polite and caring youngsters.
The 2
nd event took place in a lecture hall at the University. The 5 group games designed by the Purple group provided us with ample opportunities to work together. The toy sharing session was very meaningful. Participating members shared with us memories of their favourite toys or games. Familiar scenes sprang to my mind immediately.
The sharing session enabled us to understand how children of both generations spent their leisure. In the 50s and 60s, Hong Kong was not too resourceful. We were used to making toys with our siblings. Our young generations do not have to make their own toys anymore because there are a lot of choices in the market. Though toys and games of the two generations are very different, they have played a very crucial role in the children’s world.
The Green group will be responsible for the 3
rd event –
Our Life Stories. All the students will interview their mentors. During our 3
rd gathering, they will share our life stories. It is hoped that we will inspire each other. I really look forward to this coming event!
