Giving Back to Society through the Asia Pro Bono Conference Committee

Annie Tang, Managing Director of Star Anise Legal has been a volunteer on the local organising committee of 2018 Asia Pro Bono Conference (“2018 APBC”) along with other professional volunteers. Here, she tells us how the 2018 APBC has impacted her. 

How did you get involved in the 2018 APBC?

Annie: During the past few years, I have been involved in moderating panel discussions to in-house counsels on topics around how they can get involved in pro bono initiatives. I have also utilised my network to connect people to create platforms where in-house counsel can obtain information about this important area. Through that process, I met Davyd Wong, the Chair of the local organising committee of the 2018 APBC. Davyd is very passionate about pro bono legal assistance and he invited me to join the organising committee, initially as a sub-committee member of the Cultural and Social Sub-Committee and then as chair of the Communication & Public Affairs Sub- Committee. I had no hesitation in accepting both invitations because I could utilise and leverage off my project management and leadership skills as well as legal knowledge and business experience.

What is the purpose of 2018 APBC this year?

Annie: I cannot put it any clearer than the Conference website itself which states: “The 2018 APBC celebrates and emphasizes pro bono legal work and legal ethics, discussing ways to further the outreach of the pro bono ethos and impact throughout Asia and around the globe” (www.probonoconference.org). The Conference has been running annually in different countries in Asia since its inception in 2012 and I had not previously been involved. However, the event is taking place in Hong Kong this year for the first time which is exciting! The Conference is a good platform for delegates to find out more about charities and NGOs/social enterprises as well as academia that help the marginalised and disadvantaged sector of the society. Hence, I had no hesitation in setting aside time to utilise my skills and network to assist with this meaningful Conference.

How has the 2018 APBC impacted you?

Annie: When I initially pursued a legal career, I wanted to help others. I feel that contributing my skills to this event has allowed me to hopefully make a small contribution to society. This has been a rewarding process for me. It has also been a learning process as I have also furthered my understanding of different causes affecting society as a whole. I have also enjoyed meeting like-minded people who are passionate about their causes. It has been my honour to meet such wonderful people in the process!

What happens after the 2018 APBC?

Annie: The Conference “torch” will then be passed to another country in Asia where a local organising committee will then be formed in that country. I will then explore other ways to assist in the pro bono arena.

To find out more about the 2018 APBC or to register, please go to: www.probonoconference.org.

For press enquiries, please message our marketing team on our contact form: https://www.staranise.com.hk/contact-us.html.

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