Stories from the Humanitarian Frontlines

What is it truly like to rescue lives from a smuggling ship in the middle of the Mediterranean? Or to deliver a baby in a makeshift field hospital within a war zone?

These were just some of the powerful experiences shared by Dr Carman Kwok and Dr Marcus Lo during the 'Conversations in Relief Aid: Stories from the Frontline' event on 18 April.

Co-organised by the UWC Graduate Organisation Hong Kong (UWCGO HK), the Hong Kong Red Cross (HKRC), and LPCUWC, the event brought together over 30 UWC alumni, friends, and current students for a deeply moving afternoon.

The session opened with a sincere address by Ms Elizabeth Fung from the UWCGO HK, who complimented HKRC for their extraordinary bravery. She noted that their commitment to humanitarian values is a profound inspiration that should be championed across society—especially among the younger generation.

Participants then broke into groups for the highlight of the event — the Human Library session — where they heard firsthand accounts from frontline doctors, staff, and volunteers. Dr Carman Kwok, alongside HKRC volunteer Mr Erik Mak, Dr Marcus Lo, and Ms Elaine Fong (Senior Programme Coordinator for Emergency Health, HKRC), shared unforgettable stories from their deployments to Gaza and the Mediterranean Sea. The afternoon concluded with an engaging Q&A, where participants explored the HKRC’s work, its future plans and how to offer meaningful support.

Attendees left inspired and with a renewed sense of gratitude for those serving on the frontlines.