Bridging Art and Advocacy | Clarissa’s Volunteer Journey with the Justice Centre

Together with Time Auction, the Swire Trust Go-Givers Program encourages skilled volunteers for Swire Trust NGO partners in education, marine conservation, and arts. From now to 2025. 10 outstanding volunteers will be selected annually as the “Swire Trust Go-Givers of the Year” with special rewards & recognition. Meet our 10 Go-Givers of 2024!

Meet Clarissa — A Creative Force in Action

With a decade of experience in communications strategy and a deep passion for the arts, Clarissa is a creative force dedicated to using art to bring people together. Balancing multiple professional roles as an independent curator, Hong Kong City Lead for the grassroots community Women and Climate, and a marketing lead at Swire, Clarissa is also pursuing an MA in Art and Social Practice from the University of Highlands and Islands. Simultaneously to juggling so many balls, Clarissa still dedicates her free time to volunteering. Clarissa's volunteer journey shows how creativity and compassion can intersect to make a meaningful impact.

A Perfect Match of Passion and Purpose

Clarissa discovered this volunteer vacancy with the Justice Centre through Time Auction. She was immediately drawn to the valuable opportunity to assist in the planning and execution of the “Colours of Humanity” Arts Prize 2023, an event co-hosted by the Justice Centre Hong Kong and the European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macao, with support from the Goethe-Institut Hongkong. Now in its tenth edition, the prize continues to celebrate resilience, unity, and shared vision through the universal language of art, showcasing diverse voices and the best of humanity. This opportunity to work on a prestigious arts prize that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in Hong Kong resonated deeply with Clarissa and allowed her to contribute meaningfully to a cause close to her heart.

Inspiring Connections Through Art

Reflecting on her volunteer experience, Clarissa recalls how enlightening it was to meet the artists behind the poignant artworks shortlisted for the prize. "It was inspiring to witness their drive, dedication, and insight," she shared. Beyond the creative process, she found joy in engaging with exhibition visitors, answering their questions about the artworks, the artists, and the vital work of the Justice Centre. "It was touching to see visitors, especially younger ones, develop new curiosity and empathy about issues that are often invisible in Hong Kong," she added. These moments of connection between refugees' stories and the public consciousness were made possible by art and particularly meaningful.

The team at the Justice Centre was equally impressed by Clarissa's contributions. "From the outset, Clarissa took charge of the organizational process with remarkable efficiency and enthusiasm. Her responsiveness and sense of responsibility were evident in every task she undertook," they shared. "Whether it was communicating with stakeholders, managing spreadsheets, or conducting art tours herself, she handled each responsibility with commitment and attention to detail."

Growth Through Giving Back

Volunteering with the Justice Centre offered Clarissa a unique glimpse into the non-profit sector, an area she had long been interested in but hadn’t yet fully explored. "This experience provided invaluable insight into the inner workings and challenges of running an NGO," she explained. It also gave her the opportunity to apply her skills from the commercial sector in to a new context, making good use of relevant aspects while adapting others as appropriate.

"Clarissa's proactive approach extended beyond her assigned duties. She leveraged her personal network to enhance the exhibition's impact, drawing in a diverse and engaged audience," the Justice Centre praised Clarissa's initiative and ability to make a broader impact.

Clarissa’s Call to Volunteer

For those considering volunteering, Clarissa offered a piece of simple yet powerful advice: "Volunteering is a great opportunity to make a difference, meet fascinating people, and gain experience in fields that you have a passion for!" The Justice Centre echoed these sentiments as well, "For us, Clarissa embodies the qualities we seek in a volunteer: dedication, initiative, and a genuine passion for the arts."

Thank you Clarissa for contributing 126 volunteer hours, with Justice Centre Hong Kong!

To see details of the Swire Trust Go-Givers Program and support their NGO partners, head over to Time Auction website.

Written by Time Auction team, Edited by Margaret Ng, Volunteer Editor