International affairs, second half of 2026
Second half of 2026
ASPAC 2026 in Niigata
JCI Hong Kong, China made a massive impact with over 300 registered delegates, ranking No. 2 among all participating JCI Asia-Pacific regions. Notably, our delegation included around 80 enthusiastic first-timers.
During the First-Timer Orientation, JCI President Alejandra Castillo and JCI Vice President Naranbaatar Otgonchuluun extended a warm welcome to a fantastic turnout of new delegates. The leaders shared invaluable insights and practical tips on how to successfully navigate and get the most out of the conference. Their engaging session truly inspired our newcomers to build global networks, embrace learning opportunities, and fully maximize their very first ASPAC experience!
Throughout the conference, JCIHK National Board Members and LOM Presidents actively attended ASPAC meetings, General Assemblies, and core programs together. 2. Opening Ceremony and Welcoming Party The event was opened by JCI World President Alejandra Castillo alongside National Presidents from across the Asia-Pacific region. The Governor of Niigata Prefecture and the Mayor of Niigata City also welcomed delegates, highlighting the city's sustainable future.
The ceremony was graced by Her Imperial Highness Princess Nobuko of Mikasa. Her royal presence elevated the convention's international prestige as she witnessed JCI Japan’s keynote speech on regional peace.
Renowned female calligrapher Saisui Shimoda delivered a breathtaking live performance. Moving dynamically to powerful music, she painted on a massive canvas, blending traditional Japanese art with the vibrant JCI spirit.
During "Niigata Night," a new Guinness World Record was set for the most sake barrels smashed simultaneously (Kagami-biraki). VIPs and delegates broke open 30 massive local sake barrels, celebrating Niigata’s rich brewing heritage.
The opening featured an exclusive performance by Niigata's famous Furumachi Geigi (Geisha), a traditional culture rivaling Kyoto. Accompanied by thunderous Taiko drumming, they showcased authentic Japanese hospitality (Omotenashi). 3. Hong Kong Night: "Hong Kong Films x Local IPs" The highly anticipated Hong Kong Night transformed the venue into a vibrant cinematic celebration, fusing the golden era of Hong Kong cinema with modern home-grown creative brands (IPs) and iconic movie backdrops. The energy soared as a live DJ spun a continuous mix of classic and contemporary Cantopop music, keeping the global delegates dancing and immersed in the unique rhythm of Hong Kong culture.
A major highlight of the evening was the dynamic performance by the Local Chapter Presidents of JCI Hong Kong. Stepping into the spotlight as the main stars of the night, they took to the stage dressed as iconic characters from legendary Hong Kong action films and pop culture, delivering a high-energy show that perfectly embodied the creativity, unity, and charismatic leadership of Hong Kong’s youth. 4. JCI ASPAC Regional Competitions * JCI ASPAC Debate Championship: The JCIHK Debate Team was anchored by the powerful arguments and strategic brilliance of President Cedric Leung (JCI Yuen Long), Vivian Wong(JCI Victoria) and Aaron Leung (JCI Victoria), who fought hard through intense rounds against the region’s finest young debaters.
* Public Speaking Championship: Aaron (JCI Victoria) showcased his commanding stage presence and inspiring speech that captured the attention of both the international panel of judges and the audience in the Public Speaking arena.
* Creative Young Entrepreneur (CYE) Program: In the field of business innovation, JCIHK made a strong impression through the brilliant minds of Priscilla Yip(JCI Queensway), Papa Wang(JCI Sha Tin) and Marc Au Yeung(JCI Apex). They presented forward-thinking business models and sharp pitches that perfectly exemplified the visionary spirit of Hong Kong's young entrepreneurs on the Asia-Pacific stage. 5. International Training & Facilitation Beyond standard JCI official courses, ASPAC offered world-class training sessions. We are incredibly proud that several of our own JCIHK trainers and speakers were invited to facilitate leadership skills for international delegates:
* Steps for a Better Tomorrow: Managing SDG Projects: Trainer Senator Claudia Chor (JCI Kowloon)
* Women in Leadership Forum: Action Beyond Inspiration: Hosted by the WIL Commission: cohosted by JCI EVP Ben(JCI Tsuen Wan) , chaired by NVP Rycho Cheuk (JCI Jayceettes) 6. Awards & Closing Ceremony The energy was electric among our delegates as the Award Ceremony commenced. JCIHK achieved outstanding results, bringing home accolades—including two prestigious awards for our deserving winners!