Alicia Lui (WISE): "We Want to Change the Image of Women's Sports in Hong Kong"

We Want to Reach All Strata of Society

What is the core of your approach in schools?

We primarily operate in secondary schools, particularly at the Secondary 2 and 3 levels. We've implemented a five-session program, often integrated into physical education classes. Each session lasts about 75 to 90 minutes and combines physical activity with moments of reflection. The goal isn't to become an expert in a sport but to develop social skills, boost self-confidence, and create a space for expression. We use sports as a lever for alternative learning.

You've mentioned a specific targeting of schools. Why?

In Hong Kong, there's an informal system of academic hierarchy. We strive to work in less privileged schools, as they often cater to students from underprivileged backgrounds. Sports can be a powerful tool for empowerment, but access is crucial. Unfortunately, social inequalities are reflected in access to sports.

I Grew Up Hearing That Sports Weren't for Girls

What was the personal trigger for creating WISE?

I've always loved sports. I grew up in Hong Kong, attended the French International School, and had access to quality facilities. But culturally, I heard that certain sports were too masculine, that it wasn't serious for a girl to pursue them professionally. Twenty years later, these stereotypes persist. We want to dismantle them and show that girls can play football or basketball without it being an issue.

Do you work exclusively with girls?

Our mission remains centered on girls, but in some schools, to be able to intervene, we also need to include boys. And that's a good thing. For example, we've introduced a "male ally" workshop: how boys can be allies and support girls in their sports practice. It's fundamental to create a global cultural change.

Decathlon's Support Is a Key Step for Us

What does this Social Impact Award from Decathlon at the Grand Prix France-Hong Kong represent?

It's a tremendous honor. We've already collaborated with Decathlon on certain initiatives—their employees have participated in our workshops as facilitators—but this award opens the door to a more strategic partnership. With this recognition, we hope to extend our impact to other audiences, including families or adults who haven't had access to this type of sports education.

How do you involve adults in this cultural transformation?

We don't yet have a structured program for parents due to funding constraints. However, we work extensively with teachers and facilitators, who in turn become messengers of our initiatives. Some physical education teachers have told us they've never been trained on topics like menstruation and sports or choosing appropriate sports bras. These are essential elements for adolescent girls' participation and confidence.

Girls Dare to Open Up, and That Changes Everything

What is your greatest source of pride?

When a student tells us weeks later what she retained from the program, that she feels more confident, that she understands "it's not always her fault," we know the message has been received. We also receive touching feedback from our facilitators, like a young woman who, after leading a session, shared how the experience empowered her. These moments affirm the impact of our work.