Cultivating Careers: How Horticulture Work Group Empowers Ethnic Minority Families in Hong Kong
- cyliu21
- Apr 25
- 2 min read
At MELT center, we firmly believe that the idea to unlocking the career potential of ethnic minority can be found in the unexpected realm of horticulture. This is why we have launched an innovative career development program that integrates horticultural therapeutic elements which are transformative.
The rationale behind this unique approach comes from different theory. Firstly, at the superficial level, horticulture activities are inherently skill-building exercises. From planning and observation to experimentation, the very nature of caring for plants requires the development of essential career skills like problem-solving, focus, and memory recall. According to studies by the American Horticultural Therapy Association, the cognitive benefits of such hands-on engagement from horticulture are demonstrated.
Nevertheless, the advantages extend far beyond just practical know-how. Nurturing plants also cultivates important personal qualities that are highly sought-after in the workplace - qualities like patience, perseverance, and teamwork. As the Hong Kong Council of Social Service has emphasized, these “soft skills” are crucial for the career success of ethnic minority youths.
Horticulture working group thus provides a powerful platform for self-discovery and interest exploration. By actively engaging with the natural world, participants can uncover hidden talents and passions that may inform their future career paths. This aligns perfectly with the needs, as highlighted by the Hong Kong Ethnic Minority Advancement Project, which empathizes the importance of comprehensive career guidance and exploration for this community.
Importantly, we have designed this program to be a family workshop. By involving parents alongside their children, we are fostering intergenerational collaboration, shared learning experiences, and stronger family bonds - all of which are vital for the holistic development of ethnic minority youth, especially when working on important life decision.
Through this unique blend of hands-on horticulture, career development, and family engagement, we are empowering ethnic minority families to cultivate not just interesting skills, but also thriving careers. It is a work together to the collaborative power of thinking outside the box and embracing the unexpected synergies between nature, personal growth, and professional fulfilment.
Further reading and references:
American Horticultural Therapy Association.
Hong Kong Council of Social Service.
Comentários