The “Together We Thrive: Wellness and SEN Week”, organized by the Wellness and Counselling Centre of the Office of Student Affairs, was successfully held from 12 to 21 March 2025. The 10-day event not only deepened CUHK students’ and staff members’ understanding of mental health and special educational needs (SEN) but also fostered a more inclusive and welcoming atmosphere at CUHK through a variety of activities.
The event kicked off with the “Wellness and Inclusive Fair”. Over three consecutive days, thousands of students and staff were attracted by the well-designed booths and activities. Apart from the interactive game booths, participants could also capture their joyful moments at the Sunshine Photo Booth, unleash their creativity at the Fast-Drawing Booth, express their heartfelt wishes on the Wish Wall, and enjoy upbeat busking by Shaw Band. Professor KO Wing-hung, University Dean of Students, and Ms. Elaine TAM, Director of the Office of Student Affairs, engaged with students and staff, encouraging them to extend a helping hand to students with SEN and to remain mindful of their own mental health as well as the well-being of those around them.
More than 400 cups of Sunshine coffee were given out in the “The Joy of Sharing: Sunshine Coffee Hunt”, advocating a caring atmosphere on campus. Each coffee coupon, hidden in the University Library, carried warmth, inspiring many students to make a special effort to meet up with friends and share a coffee break together — spreading care and strength through the rich aroma of coffee.
In addition, the event featured various workshops for the CUHK community. These workshops were held to deepen students’ understanding of mental health and special education needs, while also promoting personal growth. Participants enjoyed a good time with each other throughout the process:
• White Day: Chocolate Making with Hello Cocoa: The social enterprise Hello Cocoa is dedicated to supporting individuals with SEN in employment. The instructor led students in making handmade chocolates to share with their loved ones on While Valentine’s Day.
• ADHD Awareness Talk: Speakers from the ADHD Foundation shared the challenges faced by students with ADHD and the ways to support them.
• Navigating Differences with !nside Cards® – A Journey to Understanding and Revolution: Co-organized with the Diversity and Inclusion Office, the workshop equipped students with ideas and strategies for conflict resolution, along with tips on adapting their communication methods in daily interactions.
• Visual Impairment and Wheelchair Experiential Workshop: Trainers from the Hong Kong PHAB Association led participants in experiencing the daily challenges faced by visually impaired individuals and wheelchair users.
• Being Me, Loving You: Workshop for Nonviolent Communication and Intimate Relationships: Dr. Joseph Cho from CUHK discussed the concepts, steps and strategies of nonviolent communication, helping participants to skillfully let down their guard and open their hearts.
• “With my own hands” Micro-film Screening and Sharing: Through a microfilm screening and a human library session organized by SLCO Community Resources, participants deepened their understanding of the experiences of deaf individuals.
The ten-day event concluded on a warm and touching note. The Wellness and SEN Week not only featured incredible activities and content this year but also transformed the concept of “Togetherness” into a tangible campus experience through innovative interactive formats. From the passion at the fair and the warmth of coffee cups to the profound exchanges in workshops, CUHK’s supportive network come to life through actions. Although the event has ended, the blessings written on the Wish Wall and the insights gained from experiential workshops will continue to resonate throughout the campus.
