Meet the new Chief Representative of The Fred Hollows Foundation Hong Kong, Alyssa Berggren.
What drove you to take on the role of Chief Representative of The Fred Hollows Foundation Hong Kong-ASEAN?
I have international experience in for-profit and non-profit sectors, including frontline work in developing countries. I have gained deep insights on different business strategies for organizational sustainability. I also believe that everything should be done with the greatest and lasting impact. Hence, I appreciate The Fred Hollows Foundation has an action-based and sustainable approach. It is dedicated to eliminating avoidable blindness worldwide through practical and concrete plans. It maximizes impact and contributes to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. I am grateful to join The Foundation and have an opportunity to work with the team here to amplify my work in social impact and equality.
How have your personal experiences influenced your connection with The Fred Hollows Foundation Hong Kong?
I grew up in a single-parent family and had an accident in my teenage days that left me half paralyzed for seven years. During these years, I have received support from many caring individuals. Although the doctor had identified that I would never recover, I had never stopped believing in myself. After years of dedication, I was able to miraculously recover and get back on my feet. I was able to maintain an optimistic and positive attitude towards life's ups and downs. And as Professor Fred Hollows, the founder of The Fred Hollows Foundation, has often said, "I believe the basic attribute of mankind is to look after each other." This echos with me, and my heart immediately connects with this organisation. Through my work, I hope to convey a belief: "Nothing is impossible when your mind is stronger than the matter." I am committed to inspiring more people to have a strong will. I am committed to the non-profit industry in the hope of making a sustainable impact that touches more people's lives.
Why is vision and eye health so important?
Eyes are the windows to the soul. When I interact with others, the first thing I notice are their eyes; it is one of the most important organs of an individual. When we encounter eye or visual challenges, it has a negative impact on our quality of life. I often say, eyes are like a human camera. It allows us to capture wonderful memories, which is why it is important to learn to care for our eyes. When I lost mobility at an early age, I understood the feeling of losing core health abilities. It brings a negative impact that affects us to fully appreciate our day-to-day life.
What are you most looking forward to in this job?
The Fred Hollows Foundation Hong Kong has been in Hong Kong for close to nine years. It is my hope to extend its legacy and take it to new heights. I aim to leverage my business and nonprofit experience and frontline work to create a ripple effect of impact. Working with my team, we will further build our brand in Hong Kong, and expand our local projects to benefit more people in the local community.
How is The Fred Hollows Foundation unique in its approach and vision?
Charitable organisations have the ability to create a positive impact to the community. The Fred Hollows Foundation stands out with its practical approach to sustainably solve the issue of avoidable blindness. Over the past 30 years, The Fred Hollows Foundation's achievements have been remarkable. We have restored sight to over 3 million people. We provide surgeries and treatments at the frontline for patients. We also establishing a sustainable medical team by training local doctors and healthcare professionals to bring lasting change to the world.
What beliefs or values guide your career?
As a leader, it is crucial to never stop learning and continuously strive for improvement. Empathy is also of significant importance, as it allows us to think from others' perspectives.
Please describe yourself using an animal.
I would describe myself as a combination of a cat and a lion. I can be gentle, passionate, and optimistic like a cat, especially when it comes to showing compassion and empathy towards the beneficiaries that we serve. However, at times or when faced with challenges, I can be resilient like a lion, keeping my eye on the ball and staying focused to achieve my aspirations.
What message do you have for supporters of The Fred Hollows Foundation?
Firstly, I would like to express my gratitude to the supporters who have been supporting The Fred Hollows Foundation over the past eight years. Thanks to your support, we have been able to grow to the scale we are on today. Every contribution, no matter how small, is instrumental. By donating HKD $150 per month, you can provide a simple 20-minute surgery for a cataract patient, helping them restore their sight.
I understand that you are passionate about women's empowerment. Is there any experience or message you would like to share?
Through my diverse work and life experiences, I have encountered or witnessed many instances of gender inequality and unequal treatment. I hope my career development and life stories can inspire women and girls to believe that "when you have a dream, you can achieve it." Oftentimes, women face a glass ceiling which can be a limitation imposed by society. Yet, it is also self-imposed limitations in our own thinking. We keep telling ourselves "I'm not good enough" or "I can't do it." But if we break through this glass ceiling mindset, and start telling ourselves "I can," the sky will be the limit. As long as we strive to be a better version of ourselves, set goals and achieve these goals one step at a time. We can all be champions one day.