Timmy, the founder of a startup company, was once a mentee in the 4th cycle of the "Growing Partners - Child Development Fund Project" (the Project). Back then, he crossed paths with Raymond, his mentor, a pivotal encounter that ignited his entrepreneurial journey. Timmy stated that Raymond’s influence reshaped his life and kindled within him a desire to impart similar inspiration. A decade later, that once green, inexperienced teenager has matured. Today, Timmy has rejoined the Project as a mentor, walking in tandem with underprivileged youth, intertwining lives and catalysing growth.
Blue and Green Partners: Embarking on a Joint Journey
Growing up in an underprivileged family, Timmy had limited access to extracurricular activities. In Form 3, he encountered the Project through his school. The Project not only advocates savings but also pairs participants with mentors, offering a companionship in pursuing dreams. Complemented by diverse activities such as vocational workshops, baking workshops and Art Discovery Day, Timmy was enticed to join the Project, allowing him to explore different interests and paths.
In this Project, participants are known as “Green Partners”, mirroring their youthful essence, while mentors are acknowledged as “Blue Partners”, embodying a Chinese saying “green outperforms blue” (the student surpasses the teacher). This signifies the hope that through mutual life exchanges and interactions, participants can establish a companionship, embarking on shared experiences and growth, journeying higher and farther in the course of life. Raymond, Timmy’s mentor, left an indelible impression – characterised as open-minded, cheerful and humorous. Despite his role in managing a small and medium enterprise, Raymond maintained an approachable demeanour. “He guides me through the world as a friend, constantly encouraging me to try and venture into different things,” Timmy remarked.
Timmy distinctly recalled orchestrating a citywide charity event during high school, rallying over 200 volunteers. With no prior large-scale event experience, he navigated the endeavour with Raymond's guiding hand, ensuring its success. "Raymond taught me so much. He didn’t do things for me, nor did he give me answers directly. Instead, he guided me to think and handle things on my own.”
Mentor's Inspiration Fuels Entrepreneurial Endeavour
In the course of their interactions, Timmy takes pleasure in discerning Raymond's personality and behaviour through his words and actions. Through countless conversations and experiences, he has also gained insights into Raymond's approach to handling situations and his overall attitude towards life. One piece of advice from Raymond has struck Timmy deeply, “Do what you want to do. Don’t be a sheep. Carve your own path.” Timmy, with an educational background in business, felt societal pressures to pursue a banking career, as expected by his family and friends. However, Raymond's words emboldened him to explore diverse interests and uncover his true aspirations. "The best thing about this programme is that it doesn't force you to become what society expects you to be. Instead, it encourages you to try many things, discover and identify your interests and directions, and then use the funds from the saving plan to implement them."
Timmy chuckled and remarked that under the influence of constant exposure, he has taken a few aspects of Raymond’s “shadow”. A vivid memory of visiting Raymond's company as a leader left him in awe – 'Wow! This is the person I aspire to be!' Raymond's impact propelled Timmy's journey into entrepreneurship, guiding him from running an Instagram shop and becoming a YouTuber, to engaging in virtual currency trading. Today, he spearheads an NFT service platform with a team of 10 full-time staff.
From Mentee to Mentor: Carrying Forward the "Chopstick" Ethos
Another lesson that Timmy has learned from Raymond revolves around money and life reflection. “I do want to do things that can generate money, but what comes next? Raymond often raises thought-provoking questions, compelling me to ponder how I can contribute more to society.” For Timmy, the ability to contemplate and solve social issues, help those in need, especially children and teenagers from similar backgrounds, and offer them resources and opportunities to showcase their talents, is what gives life meaning.
Timmy’s decision to re-engage with the Project as a mentor echoes his aspiration to perpetuate the “Blue and Green Partners” spirit, guiding underprivileged youth in developing their talents and pursuing dreams. “Raymond has changed me. Can I make a contribution and create an impact in others’ lives?” Describing his relationship with mentee Anthony using the "chopstick" analogy, Timmy emphasised their companionship throughout highs and lows. Both share a deep passion for volleyball. Timmy has shown his unwavering support by attending Anthony's matches, boosting his morale and cheering him on. When Anthony faced academic worries, Timmy even accompanied him to buy reference books. During their leisure time, they also join in the activities organised by the program together to unwind and relax. "Chopsticks always work together -- to savour, endure, play, and learn together. Companionship matters most."
This “Blue and Green Partner” duo recently hosted the opening ceremony of the new cycle of the “Growing Partners – Child Development Fund Project”, singing in harmony on stage, displaying seamless cooperation. Anthony even surprised Timmy on stage, presenting him with a pair of chopsticks. “I really want to keep our friendship and grow together on the path ahead. I hope the Blue and Green Partners here can vibe with us, sharing those dreams as we go.”
The Project spanning three years inevitably concludes, yet the bonds forged between mentors and mentees stand the test of time, resonating with Timmy's declaration: "Being a mentor is a lifelong commitment." Observing the two walking side by side, the chopstick analogy evokes a smile. May the partnership of “Blue and Green Partners” endure as they traverse the path ahead, evolving together
Having transitioned from a mentee in the 4th cycle of the Pro to a mentor in the 8th, Timmy’s determination towards his entrepreneurial voyage has only grown stronger. Following in Raymond’s footsteps, he dedicates his free time to community service, offering his time and energy, providing companionship, and motivating his mentees to chase their dreams. He aspires to pass on the vibrant spirit of “Growing Partners” to the next generation.
Know more about "Growing Partners - Child Development Fund Project": https://www.bgca.org.hk/articles/alleviating-child-poverty
