Saturday, March 2, 2024
Cathay is dedicated to nurturing youth development in Hong Kong through its flagship program, I Can Fly, which plays a pivotal role in promoting aviation and inspiring young individuals to make meaningful contributions to society. After a hiatus of five years, the highly anticipated return of the I Can Fly program took place today, marking its ninth pledging ceremony and the 20th anniversary of the initiative.
Ms. Lavinia Lau, Cathay’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, warmly welcomed Mr. Lam Sai-hung, the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, as the guest of honor at the pledging ceremony.
Mr Lam Sai-hung said: “I would like to sincerely thank Cathay for its continuous efforts in developing various community projects to promote youth development. I am honoured to attend the pledging ceremony for the ‘I Can Fly’ programme which has resumed for the first time since the pandemic. For 20 years, this programme has introduced more than 4,000 students to the world of aviation, planting the seeds to inspire them to become Hong Kong aviation professionals in the future. It also reflects the dedication of all the Cathay volunteers to make a positive impact through their own experiences. I wish all of the participants every success and hope they shine bright after joining this wonderful journey.”
Lavinia said “We are delighted to have Cathay I Can Fly programme return after five years. With our deep roots in Hong Kong, Cathay is committed to doing our part to support our local community, and one of the areas that is especially close to our hearts is youth development. Through the various youth development initiatives that we organise and contribute to, we are determined to help develop local talent and provide opportunities for young people to move forward in life.
“We are extremely proud to have seen thousands of students graduate from our I Can Fly programme since its launch, and we hope that this year’s members will similarly be able to realise their dreams and spread their wings. I would like to sincerely thank all of our Cathay volunteers who have given their personal time and professional knowledge to make this year, the 20th anniversary of the programme, a great success. I firmly believe that together, we will create a positive impact in our community as we strive to achieve our vision of becoming one of the world’s greatest service brands.”
Since its inception in 2003, the I Can Fly program has blended aviation expertise with social service, empowering young people to pursue their aspirations. Through this distinctive educational journey, participants gain profound insights into the aviation realm while enhancing their personal development and striving towards their goals. With over four thousand graduates since its inception, many have embarked on careers within the aviation industry.
Guided by Cathay’s volunteer leaders, members will partake in a series of aviation activities, including facility visits, specialized training, and a new addition to the program – an exchange tour to Zhuhai. Additionally, members will conceptualize and execute their own social service projects to benefit the community. Exceptional performers will earn the opportunity to engage in an aviation experiential trip this summer, delving deeper into various facets of aviation and fostering cross-cultural exchanges.
Cathay’s steadfast commitment to youth development is evident through its support of various programs, including the Strive and Rise Program, Cadet Pilot Training Program, Cathay Hackathon, collaboration with the Vocational Training Council, and numerous summer internships and graduate trainee programs.
Throughout the years, Cathay has organized a diverse array of community initiatives to aid local groups with special needs, encompassing volunteer services offering academic assistance and mentorship for children.
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
