This week’s question: “What message would you like to send to the people affected by the Tai Po fire during this difficult time?” To take part, drop us a line via this form by 12pm on Wednesday, December 10.
Power To Kwun-kuen, 18, Hong Kong Tang King Po College: I would choose a squirrel to represent the city because, like Hong Kong, the squirrel is small in size. Additionally, the squirrel can jump to various heights and locations, which reflects the diverse development of Hong Kong. Squirrels have a habit of storing different kinds of food in their mouths, much like how different cultures and ethnicities converge in this vibrant metropolitan city.
Selina Wu En-xi, 16, GCC & ITKD Lau Pak Lok Secondary School: I would choose the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, commonly known as the Chinese white dolphin. Its distinctive pink skin serves as a unique and joyful symbol of Hong Kong’s vibrant, charming character. It not only highlights the region’s harmony but also serves as a reminder for people to protect them.
May Zheng Junmei, 14, Fung Kai Liu Man Shek Tong Secondary School: The sparrow is often associated with the saying, “The sparrow may be small, but it has all the vital organs.” The phrase, which is a direct translation of a Chinese idiom, means that even though something is small in size, it is complete and functional in every detail. This reflects Hong Kong’s identity; although it is a small region, it is significant in various sectors. Hong Kong is well-known for its thriving financial services, logistics and tourism industries. It plays a crucial role in China’s economic development.
Joshua Parsons, 13, Sha Tin Methodist College: The panda is the perfect mascot for Hong Kong. Pandas are friendly and loved by people everywhere. Their black and white colours represent Hong Kong’s connection to China. Additionally, pandas are peaceful animals that bring happiness and help connect Hong Kong to the rest of the world.
Lei Shu-men, 15, Fung Kai Liu Man Shek Tong Secondary School: I would choose the red-billed Blue Magpie as Hong Kong’s mascot. This bird is a common native species in Hong Kong, known for its bright, lively plumage that reflects the city’s vibrant atmosphere and symbolises joy and harmony. As an iconic local species, it easily evokes associations with Hong Kong.
Eunice Ng Chung-yu, 12, Stewards Pooi Kei College: I would pick a dog holding a phone because dogs are reliable and efficient. In Hong Kong, citizens often work within tight schedules. The dog holding a phone represents how people in Hong Kong frequently use their phones to stay connected and informed about what’s happening.
Calvin Cheng Chun-hin, 13, HHCKLA Buddhist Ma Kam Chan Memorial English Secondary School: If I could design a mascot for Hong Kong, I would definitely choose the elephant. It symbolises luck and represents our cultural heritage, which is an important aspect of local culture. Additionally, the elephant is highly regarded in many Asian cultures.
Haison Yeung Ho-shun, 12, Carmel Alison Lam Foundation Secondary School: A horse symbolises auspiciousness, progress and success in Chinese culture. Hong Kong is renowned for its horse racing events, and it has many jockeys. Therefore, a horse mascot would help promote this sport.
Liane Fan Tse-lam, 13, St Francis’ Canossian College: If I could design a mascot for Hong Kong, I would choose the Chinese white dolphin. This friendly and lively animal represents the spirit of Hong Kong. Although the city can sometimes seem harsh, its people are also compassionate and cooperative, which is reflected in the intelligence and charm of these dolphins.
Jeanie Mira, 12, St Paul’s Convent School: It would be a wild boar, as they are everywhere in Hong Kong. Additionally, wild boars symbolise toughness and resilience, qualities essential to Hong Kong.
