Unleashing empowerment discussion at 'Nuit des Idées' in Apr

The global event "Nuit des Idées" (Night of Ideas) is making its return to the city, inviting citizens to explore the theme of "Empowerment" through a series of engaging discussions and activities.

As announced by the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, the French Centre for Research on Contemporary China (CEFC) and Asia Society Hong Kong Center, the launch event of Night of Ideas will take place on April 7 from 6pm to 8.30pm.

During the evening event at the Asia Society Hong Kong Center, guests will be invited to join a roundtable discussion centered on empowerment, fostering meaningful debates about commitment and action on current global issues.

Three thematic events will delve deeper into the concept of empowerment as part of the debate cycle, including "Preserving Our Ocean," "Ageing Social Inclusion and Intergenerational Initiatives," and "Rights of LGBT+ People."

The first thematic event "Preserving Our Ocean" -- scheduled for May -- is an exhibition of marine life photographs complemented by cocktail tasting to discuss ocean protection for a sustainable future. 

The event will showcase winning photographs of the 2023 Hong Kong Underwater Photo Competition, alongside the awarded underwater photographs by Alan Lo, a Hong Kong-based photographer, will also be displayed.

Attendees will also be able to immerse themselves in the Virtual Reality experience created by Cindy Lam Ka-sin from HKUST's Department of Ocean Science, with the two headsets for the adventure.

For "Ageing Social Inclusion and Intergenerational Initiatives" in October,  a 10-minute performance by elderly individuals living with Parkinson's will be featured.

Supported by students from the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts,  the show will be presented as part of the Jockey Club's "Dance Well" program to inspire new dialogues over aging and social inclusions among all participants.

The "Rights of LGBT+ People" in December will invite participants and the public to reflect on how same-sex couples continue to be constrained and face discrimination and how to progress toward equality regardless of their gender orientation.

The details for the "Rights of LGBT+ People" will be announced in due course, according to the Consulate General.