“Youngsters serve best as the elderly influencers!”
The Service-Learning Festival 2025 is organised by the Service-Learning Section at the Centre for Teaching and Learning, supported by The Salvation Army InnoAge Integrated Services. The theme of the event is travel, reminding participants to think about life and death education. It encourages everyone to plan ahead for themselves and their loved ones, and to cherish their time.
Erin, a life planner from The Salvation Army InnoAge volunteer team, shared a touching story with visitors about her mother’s palliative care experience. Her insight—“Youngsters serve best as the elderly influencers”—captured the heart of the festival’s message. Through her work guiding elderly participants, Erin discovered how older adults often find motivation through their grandchildren’s encouragement. Her story illustrated the irreplaceable role of youth in promoting elderly well-being and the value of empathy across generations.
Service-Learning Promo 3.0
The festival also served as a student-led campaign to showcase the spirit of service learning. It provided Service-Learning Ambassadors with opportunities to apply creativity, reflection, and teamwork through hands-on roles in design, documentation, and engagement.
Third-year ambassador Peggy Du created the event’s promotional poster, recalling her beginnings as a shy volunteer during a campus trick-or-treat event. “A super shy me, wearing a monster costume that was more awkward than scary,” she joked. Over time, she developed confidence and practical skills in photography and video editing, noting how participation in service-learning strengthened her sense of purpose.
Ambassador Jessica Man documented the festival through her camera, capturing powerful moments of learning and connection. She was particularly moved by the “simulation of our last journey” activity and the stories shared by elderly participants. “Their reflections gave me a deeper perspective on life,” she said.
For first-time ambassador Charmaine Lo, the experience was transformative. At first, she hesitated to approach visitors but soon found encouragement in their enthusiasm. “Once I started talking, I realised everyone was eager to share their thoughts on service learning,” she reflected.
The ambassadors agreed that the experience deepened their understanding of empathy and meaningful engagement. The Service-Learning Festival 2025 not only highlighted intergenerational compassion but also inspired the next generation of student leaders to continue shaping community partnerships with creativity and heart.
