[HKILF 2026] TALK: Building Belonging Across Communities

EVENT DESCRIPTION

In this special conversation at The Africa Centre, Arshay Cooper, rower, author, and social changemaker, shares how courage, unity, and resilience can transform lives and neighborhoods.

Arshay’s journey began in one of Chicago’s most underserved communities, where he used the unlikely sport of rowing to confront racial barriers, build trust, and ignite a movement that redefined what was possible for young people of color. His story, captured in the book and documentary, A Most Beautiful Thing, reminds us that transformation begins when those who feel invisible discover their collective strength.

Though Hong Kong’s challenges differ, many here also navigate the realities of invisibility—from migrant workers to local minorities seeking belonging in an ever-changing city. This event invites reflection on how community, empathy, and collaboration can make us all visible.

Join us for an afternoon of insight and dialogue that bridges continents, stories, and shared humanity.

The event is free (donations appreciated).

ABOUT THE ARTIST / ORGANISER

Arshay Cooper is a rower, bestselling and award-winning author, a motivational speaker, and the protagonist of the film, A Most Beautiful Thing, based on his first book of the same name that won the 2020 Nautilus Award. The film won the 2021 Gracie Award, was nominated by the Critics’ Choice Association for Best Sports Documentary, and was named one of the best films of 2020 by Esquire. Arshay’s second book, Let Me Be Real With You, was released in October 2025 and has already earned the #1 spot on the USA Today Best-selling Booklist.