Hello! I’m Mary Wong. It has been about a year since I joined Encompass HK, and I am thrilled to be part of the team!
I was diagnosed with Optic Neuritis while studying in Form 4. The illness can lead to recurrent Optic Neuritis, Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO), or Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This diagnosis has left me uncertain about what the future holds.
A defining moment for me occurred on my last day in Form 5, just before my taking the public exam. The school social worker asked me about my future aspirations. I expressed my concerns regarding my vision problems and my uncertainty as a partially visually impaired person. To my disappointment, she walked away without engaging further in the conversation. At that time, society was not very open-minded about accepting disabilities, and Integrated Education had not yet been established. The social worker seemed unsure of how to support students with special educational needs, leaving me feeling abandoned.
Upon graduating from Hong Kong Baptist University with a bachelor’s degree in creative writing last year, I, like many other graduates, felt confused and uncertain about my career path. My vision impairment—50% vision in my left eye and 30% in my right—adds to the challenge. While I may seem like normal others at first glance, a closer look reveals the difference.
After graduating, I worked at a snack shop, but a senior staff suggested I should quit because my difficulty with identifying coins in cash transactions. This disheartening experience affected my self-confidence and prompted me to seek job opportunities through the CareER Association.
During my interview with Encompass HK, I was allowed extra time for the written test, making me feel accepted for who I am.
The Encompass job means far more to me than just employment; it fulfils my passion for fostering a more inclusive and diverse society. I can apply the skills I gained from my degree by designing graphics, writing promotional materials, and assisting with activities. Additionally, interacting with friendly event attendees and fellow interns has broadened my horizons.
“Even though you may be a small gear in the vast machinery of the world, you are an essential part of the whole!” A friend once said this to encourage me not to give up during difficult times. I am now proud to be a small gear playing my part at Encompass HK.
I am enthused to deepen my knowledge of design and writing as I grow with Encompass HK. True to its audacious vision, Encompass HK is set to fulfil its bold mission of advocating for the Sustainable Development Goals.
