Award win shows teen's a real sport

Henry Siu

A 15-year-old boy, Owen Ng Yat-san, is proving that teens can indeed make a difference in their communities.

Ng set up Game on in 2022 with fellow sports enthusiasts to empower underprivileged children through sports while creating volunteering opportunities for youth.

That came after he realized that many children in the region lack access to sports training resources and that many schools require students to engage in volunteer work.

"Volunteering is compulsory, and students are often forced into it," Ng said.

"Many teenagers don't actually enjoy what they're doing. It's not their passion. I don't like this approach, so I decided to start this initiative to provide a platform for teenagers to give back to society by doing what they love."

Ng added that local parents often work long hours and struggle to find time or the resources for their children's sports needs.

"Game On is here to provide free sports resources," he said. "I believe that sports activities can relieve academic stress and improve mental well-being."

Game On has served 1,528 children across eight districts and collaborated with community centers and 200 volunteers.

Ng said it helps underprivileged children achieve their sports needs by offering training and professional guidance.

It recently launched "Neighballhood," a game education project aimed at teaching disadvantaged children in all 18 districts. "We expect to reach 3,000 children in two years," Ng said.

Ng's efforts have been recognized: he is the youngest award winner of the Children's Champion Award, organized by Save The Children Hong Kong to honor those who are transforming children's lives and which showcases their commitment to empowerment.

"Awardees are selected based on impact, inspiration and ability to create long-term sustainable change for children," said its chief executive, Carol Szeto. "The awardees have made long-term contributions by mobilizing others and educating the community."

In June, a football program called "Play to Thrive" was launched to improve social and emotional skills and address critical needs, especially child abuse and mental health, which include anxiety, depression, self-harm and even suicide," Szeto said.