Member Self-Recommendation Scheme for Youth: empowering youths to participate in public affairs

The Member Self-Recommendation Scheme for Youth (MSSY) is a dynamic initiative designed to foster youth engagement in public affairs and strengthen their interactions with the government. As set out in the Chief Executive’s 2022 Policy Address and outlined in the Youth Development Blueprint, MSSY aims to harness the potential of young people by providing them with opportunities to join and contribute to government advisory committees.

MSSY Phase 7: a milestone achievement

Launched in August 2024, MSSY Phase 7 features 23 advisory committees, each focusing on diverse areas of public interest. These committees include the Action Group on Youth Engagement under the Youth Development Commission, the Women's Comission, and the Harbourfront Commission, among others. Spanning a range of domains from education to technological innovation, the scheme offers a breadth of opportunities for youths to engage themselves in diverse sectors.

Application process and criteria

Eligible applicants are individuals aged between 18 and 35 who are passionate about serving their community. Qualified individuals are invited to self-nominate to become members of specified government advisory committees. The application process emphasises meritocracy, focusing on candidates who exhibit a strong commitment to community service, a good understanding of relevant policy areas, and excellent analytical and communication skills.

Applicants can submit their applications through various channels - by completing the online application form, mailing the application to the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau, or delivering the application in person to the bureau’s drop-in box at the Central Government Offices. The deadline for submission is on 10 September 2024 (Tuesday) at 11:59 p.m. (Hong Kong time).

Each submission requires an explanation of the applicant’s suitability for the committee role. This can be done through a written statement of up to 600 words or a multimedia submission, including a video (mp4 format) or audio clip (m4a format) of no more than three minutes. These materials help assessors evaluate the applicant’s suitability for the advisory committee positions.

Notable appointees: voices of youth

One of the notable appointees is Ms CHAN Sze Long, Aimee. Appointed through MSSY Phase 6, Aimee serves on the Award Council of the Hong Kong Award for Young People (AYP).

“I am very grateful to be given the opportunity to help formulate policies and development strategies for the award scheme,” she shares. Aimee believes this opportunity encourages her to think more analytically from different identities and perspectives.

Professionally, she is a recipient of the Hong Kong Award for Young People Silver Award. Her experience as an AYP participant and multifaceted expertise bring a unique perspective to the council, contributing to the development and recognition of young talent in Hong Kong.

Ms LAI Hei Yan, Bonita, is another passionate participant of MSSY. Bonita, appointed through MSSY Phase 5, serves on the New Energy Transport Fund Steering Committee. Her passion for the transportation industry and green mobility solutions is evident. After completing studies in photovoltaics engineering and transport planning, Bonita embarked on her public transport journey in an unusual approach. Starting from a bus driver, she currently manages daily traffic operations of land transport in a mass transit company.

“As a practitioner in the transportation industry, I am very interested in green and innovative transportation technologies. By joining the New Energy Transport Fund Steering Committee through the MSSY, I have the opportunity to participate in the discussion on how to utilise government resources more effectively and promote the industry’s sustainable transformation,” says Bonita.

Also appointed through MSSY Phase 5, Mr LIN Hin Wang, David, serves on the Steering Committee on Strategic Development of Information Technology in Education. He is doing research in Electronic and Computer Engineering at university.

“I have participated in various invention competitions and exhibitions since secondary school. Now, my research focuses on drones and unmanned ships,” says David as he introduces himself. His commitment to his research and the committee’s work is reassuring. When asked how he feels about having the chance to serve on the committee, he replies, “Before each meeting, I always undertake a thorough preparation by researching the discussion topics and incorporating relevant scientific knowledge and data. Then, I share my views with the other committee members during the meetings. I am very glad that each member’s opinion is taken seriously, and we discuss all feasible recommendations in detail.”

Expanding opportunities for youth

As a ‘talent incubator’, the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau will significantly expand the reach of the MSSY so that more young voices can be heard in different government advisory committees to drive meaningful changes and innovation. In 2022, approximately 60 advisory committees were involved in the scheme. By the end of the current term, the government plans to increase this number to at least 180.

“Embrace your ambitions and be brave to try.”

“Turn your ideas into the power to make changes.”

“Seize the opportunity to speak up on this stage.”

These are the words of advice from participants of the scheme.

The MSSY represents a significant step towards integrating young people into public decision-making. By expanding the number of participating committees and providing clear pathways for involvement, the MSSY aims to empower the next generation of leaders and innovators. This initiative not only strengthens youth engagement in public affairs but also enhances the effectiveness of advisory committees through fresh perspectives and new ideas. Act now and explore which committee in this phase may suit you!