HONG KONG: Hongkonger Jennifer Wong Ming-wai was only eight years old when her life took a drastic turn after she suffered a severe allergic reaction to a medication, which led to complications that left her blind.
Wong’s challenges, however, have pushed her to become the city’s first visually impaired clinical psychologist.
“My own hardships have shaped my understanding of psychological issues, making me more empathetic towards others,” she said.
Wong has been selected as a finalist for the Spirit of Hong Kong Awards 2024 in the perseverance category.
The annual event, jointly organised by the South China Morning Post and property developer Sino Group, honours the achievements of remarkable individuals whose endeavours might otherwise go unnoticed.
Despite this life-altering event, Wong said she drew strength from her faith, holding onto the Bible verse, “Do not be afraid; just believe”.
After overcoming discrimination and lack of support during her studies in Canada, Wong returned to Hong Kong in 2014 to pursue a career as a clinical psychologist.
Her resilience and determination led her to work in psychology and start volunteering to serve the community.
In 2015, Wong founded Codekey Cookies, a self-sustaining social enterprise run by visually impaired people.
Through this venture, Wong promotes social inclusion, self-exploration, and empowerment by providing employment opportunities to people with disabilities and educating the public on accessibility and diversity.
“We have a lot of labels. We label ourselves and label others. But we are not aware that these labels have deprived us of many opportunities, abilities and lives,” Wong explained.
She said Codekey Cookies was not just a business, but also a movement for change.
“Even with disabilities and challenges, life offers choices,” she said. “Do not judge a book by its cover, just like you should not judge a person by their appearance.”
In addition to Codekey Cookies, Wong co-founded Eli Care, a volunteer group that has also been shortlisted for the Teamwork category of the Spirit of Hong Kong Awards.
Since returning to Hong Kong, Wong has remained deeply connected to those in need, working with people with visual, intellectual and physical disabilities, low-income families, the elderly, and students with special learning needs.
“When I talk to people with disabilities, they accept me because they know I understand. They show their soft side to me,” Wong said.
Through her volunteer work, Wong has collaborated with organisations such as the Hong Kong Joint Council of Parents of the Mentally Handicapped.
She organised workshops, outings and festive gift-giving events to bring joy and comfort not only to intellectually disabled people but also much-needed relief to their carers, allowing them to recharge and feel the love and care of the broader community. - South China Morning Post
