Equal Opportunities Expo, the annual major public education initiative of the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC), was launched today (17 October 2004) at Island Resort Mall in Siu Sai Wan. "Reaching Out for Equal Opportunities" is the theme for this year's Expo, which is fully supported by Commercial Radio 1 and features weekly radio programmes, four roadshows, Career Challenge 2004, a photo competition and a series of community events.


Speaking at the launching ceremony, EOC Chairperson Mrs. Patricia CHU said, "The objective of EO Expo 2004 is to reach out to the community and raise public awareness about the importance of equal opportunities. We are very pleased to enlist a media partner, Commercial Radio 1, to bring the message of diversity and inclusion to radio listeners." A series of radio programmes "Reaching Out for Equal Opportunities" hosted by Ms. Carrie LI and Ms. Rosa MOK, will be broadcast every Saturday, from 23 October to 13 November 2004 at 9 p.m. on Commercial Radio 1 (FM 88.1 – 89.5).


"The radio programme will explore equal opportunities concepts and capture the highlights of EO Expo 2004," said Ms. Betty LEUNG, Programme Director of Commercial Radio 1. "We are proud to be EOC's media partner in creating an inclusive environment for the community."


One of the highlights of the Expo is Career Challenge 2004, a youth mentorship programme aimed at breaking down stereotypes and widening the horizons of young people. Ten illustrious achievers from a wide spectrum of professions have joined as mentors in this year's programme (see attached list). About one thousand secondary students are expected to participate in this year's mentorship programme. They will pay a half-day visit to a mentor's workplace or join in a large group sharing session with the mentor of their choice.


"We are truly grateful for the support of our Career Challenge Mentors, who are all outstanding achievers in their fields," said Mrs. CHU. "We launched our first Career Challenge in 2002, following an EOC study which found that occupational stereotyping was extremely prevalent among both male and female students. The Career Challenge programme aims to break down attitudinal barriers formed by stereotyping and opens doors for our young participants. After participating in our programme, they will be able to explore a wide variety of subjects and consider their career choices based on interest and ability."


Joining EOC Chairperson Mrs. Patricia CHU on stage, today's kick-off ceremony was officiated by the Hon. Audrey EU Yuet-mee, Legislative councilor; Mr. Benny CHEUNG, Chairperson of Board of Directors, Hong Kong Federation of Handicapped Youth; Mrs. Betty YUEN, Managing Director, CLP Power Hong Kong Limited; Mr. HUI Chi-on, EO Ambassador; Mrs. Laura LING, EOC Member and Ms. Betty LEUNG, Programme Director of Commercial Radio 1. The masters of ceremony, Ms. Carrie LI and Ms. Rosa MOK, both DJs of Commercial Radio 1, interviewed former and current mentors of the Career Challenge Programme, the Hon. Audrey EU, Mr. Benny CHEUNG and Mrs. Betty YUEN, who shared with the audience their experiences of overcoming barriers to succeed in non-traditional fields. Popular artistes Stephanie CHENG, Wilfred LAU and E-Kids also showed their support for equal opportunities.


Two community organizations, Lok Kwan Social Service and T.W.G.Hs. Wong Cho Tong Integrated Vocational Rehabilitation Centre cum Hostel, also joined in today's launch in promoting the benefits of embracing equal opportunities. Following the launch, a series of roadshows will be held in different districts during October and November 2004, with other Mentors and popular artistes sharing their experiences and showing their support:



30-10-2004 (Sat) 2:00 - 3:15 p.m. at Tuen Mun Town Plaza

06-11-2004 (Sat) 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Metroplaza (Kwai Fong)

13-11-2004 (Sat) 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Ma On Shan Plaza


In total, over thirty events organized or funded by the Commission will be held from October to January to promote equal opportunities. Next month, a photo competition, "EO Through Your Eyes" will be launched for enthusiasts to show equal opportunities concepts and aspects of diversity through their camera lens.


Details of EO Expo 2004 are available on the EOC website at http://www.eoc.org.hk. Members of the public may contact the Equal Opportunities Commission at 2511-8211 for enquiries.


Enquiry: Mr. Sam HO 21062187