Eldon Chim
He is a finance student at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. He has deferred his university education for a year, however, to organize a non-profit environmental protection association.
Just a few years ago, Dixon was a triad member. He has changed all that, however.
During his Form 5 summer he joined extra-curricular activities to help improve his organization skills.
“Because I had no experience before, I was scolded by those activity organizers,” said he.
However, Dixon did not give up.
“I observed what they did, and that is the way to learn new things.”
Over the next few year, he acquired experience in organizing activities. When he entered the university in 2000, student associations invited him to be their leader.
But Dixon knew what he wanted and has concentrated his energies on environmental protection.
“Some seniors at the university have participated in environmental protection activities for a long time, and their enthusiasm has inspired me,” said Dixon.
He started to work out a proposal for green activities in local colleges with his friends.
Unexpectedly, teachers showed interest and support.
The dean of his university department also admired his proposals and approved Dixon’s application to defer his studies for a year.
He then went out to look for funds and volunteers to turn his idea into action. In October 2001, “Vert” was born with the purpose of raising environmental consciousness in local teenagers.
However, he knew it would be hard to persuade others to join his cause unless he himself showed commitment and devotion.
He spent the summer of 2001 inviting volunteers and colleges to join Vert.
Now there are more than 100 volunteers from local universities, and more than 60 colleges have joined a green programme organized by Vert.
Touched by Dixon’s enthusiasm, college students have agreed to be volunteers after their public examinations.
“I have a dream. I hope I can create an environment for secondary school students to learn about environmental conservation before they enter the university.
“I hope Vert is a suitable place for me to fulfill my dream,” said he.
In addition, Dixon wants local youths to know that sometimes the result is not so important: It is the effort that counts.
“Actually, we can learn lots of unexpected things while we make an effort.
“For instance, I have had opportunities to meet government officials and professionals whom I would never have expected to meet before,” said he.
