Student Reporter: Mr Chung Chun Yu Tommy (COMM/6)
Student Translator: Mr Tsui Tai Kwun Ricky (TRAN/3)
English Editor: Mr Jimmy K K Lau, English Language Teaching Unit
Photographer: Ms Ng Ling Chung Joyce (COMM/1)

While the exhilaration of the Paris Olympics sweeps across the world last summer, an inadvertent but far-reaching event, Special Olympics, also influences society. As an international sports organisation designed for people with intellectual disabilities, Special Olympics not only allows this overlooked community to manifest their abilities, but also plays an important role in promoting an inclusive society. In this rarely spotlighted field, Mr Yung Wing Chun Kelvin, a year-three medical student and the awardee of the CUHK Outstanding Student Awards 2024 (Social Service), has ploughed the furrow for seven years and raced ahead on his own “special” path.

Where volunteering starts

His journey as a Special Olympics volunteer began in high school when he initially participated as a volunteer in a bocce competition to merely fulfill his Other Learning Experience (OLE) requirement. “At that time, I knew nothing about Special Olympics. I just wanted to have fun with my friend,” said Kelvin.

After the match, Kelvin and his schoolmates stayed for an inclusive camp. Most of them conked out as they were exhausted from the previous whole-night party. “The camp’s purpose was to give the volunteers and the people with intellectual disabilities a chance to interact. I was tired too, but I felt I shouldn’t rest on the sidelines like the others. So, I joined in and played games with them,” said Kelvin.

When Kelvin first encountered individuals with intellectual disabilities, his impression was not far from the common stereotypes: danger and abnormality. However, as he spent more time with them, he realised those notions were misguided. “The people with intellectual disabilities are incredibly pure-hearted. When I’m with them, I can set aside my worries and fully enjoy the moment,” Kelvin said. “This experience made me realise that I genuinely enjoy such interactions, and it’s what motivates me to continue dedicating to Special Olympics.”

A group photo of Team Hong Kong at Special Olympics World Games 2023. (photo provided by interviewee)

Kelvin assisted in receiving the delegation of Team Special Olympics Korea at 2023 Special Olympics East Asia Regional Bocce Competition. (photo provided by interviewee)

Redefining Perceptions

Misunderstandings and stigmas surrounding intellectual disabilities arise from incomprehension. In fact, as Kelvin shared, many individuals with intellectual disabilities possess impressive abilities; they simply face challenges with social or interpersonal interactions. “They’ve got talents, but they just need more understanding and support. So, my role is that of an inclusion partner who helps them express themselves. For example, when they need to share an idea, I summarise the information and guide them in expressing their thoughts clearly,” said Kelvin. “My role acts as a bridge, helping them communicate with the wider world more confidently and enabling society to better appreciate their abilities.”

Experience of International Representative

As Kelvin became more involved in Special Olympics activities, his talents led him to participate in several international events, including representing East Asia at the “Global Youth Leadership Summit” held in Berlin in 2023. The theme of the summit, “For the Youth, By the Youth”, was focused on empowering young people to organise and host the conference. As a member of the organising committee, Kelvin was responsible for liaising with relevant organisations and collaborating with other regional committees to discuss the design and content of the event. He was tasked with delivering a speech in front of hundreds of delegates from various countries, a formidable challenge for anyone, especially a young person just starting his university journey.

He once felt nervous but was ignited by the words of a senior: “If you’re stage-frightened, just imagine how much more your partner is freaking out.” His partner was an introvert with intellectual disabilities, who had never left Asia and had modest English proficiency. Facing such unfamiliar surroundings, Kelvin came to understand: “At the moment my partner looked at me with unease, I knew that no matter how anxious I was, I had to back him up. This sense of responsibility helped me regain my confidence in the face of fear.” In addition to staying calm and solving problems under pressure, this experience taught him to support those around him and grow together.

Touching Moments

The feeling of growing alongside those around him constantly drives his commitment to Special Olympics. One event stands out among his volunteer experiences – during a training camp in Mainland China, his teammate with intellectual disabilities (referred as A) demonstrated remarkable abilities and could even improvise during speeches. However, A often struggled to manage his low mood. He would feel guilty over minor mistakes and sometimes even vent his emotions by slapping his head.

One day, after training, Kelvin met A, who was feeling morose,. A told Kelvin that he had performed poorly that day and quickly sank into self-blame. This was the first time Kelvin had faced such a serious situation. Initially, he was nonplussed by the unexpected turn, but he still tried to stay calm and told A, “Do you think I’m capable? I make mistakes too, but that doesn’t mean I’m not good at what I do.” The words left A stunned, as if he had been inspired, and he began learning to manage his emotions.

Afterward, Kelvin heard from A’s instructor that A had started to accept his mistakes and no longer blamed himself too harshly after the incident. “I felt glad about his growth and appreciated that standing by and guiding him were meaningful. These heartwarming moments became my greatest motivation for getting involved in Special Olympics,’ said Kelvin.

The key to balance

As a medical student, Kelvin is deeply aware of the importance of balancing academics and volunteering activities. Despite the tremendous academic pressure of medical studies, he is adept at making good use of his free time to engage in Special Olympics work. For instance, after completing his exam, he will devote more time to volunteer activities. “As long as managing time thoroughly, it is possible to balance academics and volunteering activities,” said Kelvin. Additionally, he has received significant support from United College. “Through the college’s funding programs, I can participate in more activities, and gain recognition for my dedication by being nominated for various awards, which enables me to focus more on my service work with Special Olympics,” said Kelvin.

Looking ahead for Young Talent

Just as this interview opportunity arose from receiving an award Kelvin has always wished to share his journey of Special Olympics with more people through different platforms. Kelvin pointed out that the age gap in volunteer workforce is one of the greatest challenges of Special Olympics. “I’m the only young person among the volunteers, which creates a clear gap during the event preparation.”

Becoming a Special Olympics volunteer is more than easy: anyone can join by merely filling out a volunteer form on the official website. Kelvin has led by example over these years. And by consistently participating, he has become a core member of the events and even has had the opportunity to represent Hong Kong at international conferences. Despite receiving numerous praises, he has only one wish: “I hope that by sharing my experience, more people can understand the significance of Special Olympics, and more young people will be inspired to join and experience the sense of accomplishment that comes from helping the individuals with intellectual disabilities.”