About HKYAF

Mission Statement

Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation (HKYAF) is a charity that provides access to high quality, non-competitive free-of-charge arts experiences for all young people aged 5 to 25.

Established in 1993 by Lindsey McAlister OBE, JP, HKYAF organises inclusive and inspirational projects that reach out to youngsters of all cultures, backgrounds, languages and abilities, and actively creates opportunities for those who are disadvantaged and underprivileged. Each year, HKYAF reaches over 800,000 people through its projects, exhibitions and performances.

HKYAF Philosophy

"... What I hear I forget, what I see I remember, what I do I understand." (Confucius)
We believe that quality art experiences can enrich the learning process by offering new ways of channelling energy and looking at the world. Amongst the multitude of crucial benefits that arts opportunities create are increased creativity, self-expression and self-esteem, plus problem-solving, communication, leadership and teambuilding skills.

HKYAF is all about setting the spirit of youth and creativity free.
South China Morning Post

I have learnt to take risks and to take every opportunity that comes my way.
Performing arts youth participant

It was the first time I felt good about myself. I began to believe in myself. I found a new space to express my inner feelings, no one judged me and I was treated as a friend.
Visual arts youth participant

HKYAF consistently reinforced the truth that we mattered and that we can make a difference.
HKYAF alumnus