"Where do you come from? A common question but for some - it's tricky question.

Aljon Rae, a Hong Kong-Filipino, will share insights as an 'ethnic minority' in the community through sharing his personal stories on growing up in a multicultural environment, integrating in the community, and forming his identity. Aljon Rae Grospe is a Hong Kong-Filipino. Coming up through the school system as an ethnic minority, he faced challenges such as integrating to the larger society. Playing rugby was the key that opened doors for him to interact with ethnic Chinese Hong Kongers. This enabled him to absorb the local culture and brush up his Cantonese. Nowadays, he radiates his passion for integration and inclusion by leading a team of rugby-playing domestic helpers with a mission to break barriers and build a more inclusive city.

Apart from rugby initiative that he leads, Aljon is also on the Fundraising Committee of the Resolve Foundation, an NGO focused on creating a more inclusive Hong Kong. He also volunteers with NGOs such as Dear Hong Kong and Love 21 Foundation blending his passion for photography and sports with social good. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx