OSC funds financial education tool for teenage girls
A charity says it will expand a self-empowerment programme for teenage girls to include financial education, using funds raised from Operation Santa Claus. Inspiring Girls Hong Kong is one of the 16 beneficiaries of this year's "Magic Moments"-themed campaign, which is jointly organised by RTHK and the South China Morning Post.  Through speed networking, the charity aims to empower girls aged between 14 and 16 -- particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds and marginalised communities -- in their career. Ines Gafsi, Chair and Director of Inspiring Girls, told RTHK's Carolyn Wright that gender stereotypes can limit career aspirations. "We observe a notable decline of self-confidence among girls at this age; especially disadvantaged schoolgirls would often express a lack of access to role models who can inspire them to set ambitious goals," Gafsi said. "Presenting them with a broad spectrum of role models across various industries -- including those traditionally male-dominated such as finance and STEM -- can break gender stereotypes," she added. Gafsi also said that 12 percent of Hong Kong's youth have issues with overspending and debt, and that 20 percent of women in the city are at the poverty line. So thanks to OSC this year, the charity will expand the speed networking programme with the launch of a financial education tool called "Empower Her Future" so that young girls can be more financially literate. "We believe that, with this innovative financial programme, we can empower girls to foster financial independence and ultimately break the cycle of intergenerational poverty," Gafsi said, thanking OSC for the funds. The girls will have access to online courses, gamified assessments and work placements in the charity's corporate partners. And in the long run, the charity hopes to implement the programme in schools and get teachers involved in making a long-term impact on future generations. If you want to find out more about Operation Santa Claus or wish to make a donation, visit the Operation Santa Claus website.