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FASHION TO RECONNECT: A Tale of Two Style Capitals From 17 November to 25 December
Bringing together the fashion capitals of the East and West, featuring 9 Hong Kong-based and 15 Italian designers and brands
- FASHION TO RECONNECT Fashion Exhibition: creating an immersive journey of sustainable aesthetics
- 6 Third Paradise art installations make their debut at Hong Kong cultural landmarks and popular hotspots
- Launching a new chapter in Hong Kong-Italy fashion, art and sustainable development
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 November 2025 – The global fashion extravaganza, FASHION TO RECONNECT: A Tale of Two Style Capitals, organised by the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS), City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) with Fondazione Pistoletto Cittadellarte in partnership with Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency as a programme of the Hong Kong Fashion Fest which is presented by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, will be held from 17 November to 25 December 2025. This cultural exchange project is supported by the Consulate General of Italy. The FASHION TO RECONNECT project will feature 6 Third Paradise art installations reinterpreted by Hong Kong-based artists and collectives, alongside a fashion exhibition, and several moments of interaction for creatives from the two regions. The exhibition by Fondazione Pistoletto Cittadellarte and curated by Tiziano Guardini will showcase masterpieces by 9 Hong Kong-based and 15 Italian designers and brands reflecting the cultural exchange and resonance between two regions. It will also serve as a platform to recognise designers’ contributions to sustainable fashion worldwide.
The Third Paradise, proposed by the Italian artist Michelangelo Pistoletto, represents the third phase of humanity: a balanced connection between artifice and nature. Third Paradise art installations have been showcased in Australia, Chinese Mainland, England, France, Italy, South Korea and at the United Nations Headquarters, as well as many other locations worldwide. From November to December, 6 Third Paradise art installations will be presented at 5 cultural landmarks and popular destinations in Hong Kong: the Sophia Loren House in Wan Chai, Hong Kong International Airport, City University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, and the Hung Hom Harbourfront Promenade. The installations will feature large-scale art installations and digital videos, offering visitors and locals the opportunity to experience the Third Paradise in unexpected ways within familiar urban settings. These interactions encourage audiences to reconnect with the natural environment in their daily lives and explore new possibilities for sustainable living. The Hong Kong edition is the largest-scale event dedicated to the Third Paradise, featuring 6 installations utilising various art forms and collaborating with different creatives across multiple districts within the same city during the same period.
Taking inspiration from Third Paradise and Fondazione Pistoletto Cittadellarte, the FASHION TO RECONNECT Fashion Exhibition will be held at ArtisTree in Taikoo Place from 25 November to 24 December. The exhibition aims to elevate fashion as an artistic medium for driving social change, showcasing the creative processes and works of 9 Hong Kong-based and 15 Italian designers and brands. Through fashion, the exhibition invites visitors to consider humanity’s relationship with nature and encourages them to make conscious choices for a sustainable future.
To promote exchanges between Hong Kong (China) and Italy in the field of sustainability, FASHION TO RECONNECT is hosting a symposium, a roundtable and 2 seminars under the theme “Sino-Overseas Exchange: The Tale of Two Style Cities”. These events will be held at Soho House in Sheung Wan from 27 to 28 November. Among the speakers, Paolo Naldini, Director, Fondazione Pistoletto Cittadellarte, Sara Sozzani Maino, Creative Director Fondazione Sozzani and International New Talents and Brands Ambassador of Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana, and Tiziano Guardini, eco-conscious designer and exhibition curator. Participants will explore the challenges and opportunities in sustainable fashion and analyse different strategies in eco-conscious design, resource management, cultural preservation, and cross-sectorial collaborations examining the shared values and unique perspectives nurtured within the cultural contexts of Hong Kong (China) and Italy to foster deeper and more creative cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Prof. Alfred Tat-kei Ho, Dean of CLASS, CityUHK, and part of the project team expressed his enthusiasm in announcing the project “CLASS is proud to announce this project as it represents a high-impact activity that will engage not only academics and professionals interested in fashion, sustainability, and art, but also the wider public through activations that will contribute to brand Hong Kong as a creative and cultural hub focusing in East Meets West. This is a concrete example of cross-sectorial collaborations that represent the direction for companies to grow and enhance their brand awareness”.
Prof. Esterina Nervino, Assistant Professor at CityUHK and Project Coordinator of FASHION TO RECONNECT commented: “With my research rooted in luxury, sustainability, and art, I am especially proud of this initiative, which brings together exceptional partners to create cultural experiences that will inspire communities and enliven districts across the city”.
Exploring the 6 Third Paradise Art Installations: A Sustainable Dialogue Through Urban Spaces
6 Third Paradise art installations will be presented at cultural landmarks and popular spots in Hong Kong on designated dates between November and December. Renowned Hong Kong artists and groups will reinterpret Michelangelo Pistoletto’s concept of the Third Paradise, with each installation expressing a unique artistic perspective. Together, these works will transform the city into a platform for public dialogue on sustainability, inviting in-depth reflection on the future in different urban spaces.
| 6 Third Paradise Art Installations |
| Date: 17 November – 07 December
Venue: Sophia Loren House, Wan Chai In Collaboration With: Khalif Yu Intro: Created by Khalif Yu, a fibre artisan from Hong Kong (China), the artwork skilfully employs natural materials to offer a stunning interpretation of Michelangelo Pistoletto’s Third Paradise. Created using sustainable fibres and practices, this intricate installation will adorn the balcony of the Sophia Loren House on Johnston Road in Wan Chai, serving as a breathtaking visual centrepiece that promotes sustainability. Every knot and weave reflects Khalif’s commitment to preserving nature and encouraging conversations about environmental awareness and the interconnectedness of life. The installation invites viewers to consider a shared future in which art, sustainability and community can flourish together. |
| Date: 19 November – 16 December
Venue: Arrival Hall of Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport In Collaboration With: Vivienne Tam Intro: Taking inspiration from the Third Paradise concept and featuring the iconic OPERA GIRL from the designs of the famous fashion designer Vivienne Tam, the digital artwork promotes sustainability by highlighting the rich tradition of Chinese opera alongside contemporary eco-conscious practices at Hong Kong Airport’s Terminal 1 arrival hall. The vibrant imagery of the OPERA GIRL is intertwined with visuals that showcase sustainable materials and methods used in opera costumes and sets, emphasising how traditional artistry can evolve to embrace environmental responsibility. As the video unfolds, it encourages travellers to appreciate the cultural significance of Chinese opera while inspiring them to adopt sustainable choices in their own lives. |
| Date: 20 November – 25 December
Venue: Hung Hom Harbourfront Promenade In Collaboration With: Dorian Ho Intro: Guided by the concept of the Third Paradise, the artwork draws on the dynamic energy of the National Games, incorporating the Third Paradise symbol into the sporting atmosphere. This allows everyone to immerse themselves in the endless vitality that resides in the harmony of the sea and sky. Sport plays a vital role in promoting sustainability by fostering community well-being, encouraging environmental responsibility and inspiring collective action towards a healthier, more sustainable future. |
| Date: 22 November – 19 December
Time: 07:30 – 22:30 Venue: “Tunnel of Future Innovations”, City University of Hong Kong In Collaboration With: Zoie Lam Intro: Riding on the Third Paradise concept, the Hong Kong-based artist Zoie Lam draws inspiration from the vibrant cultural tapestry of Sham Shui Po, infusing iconic elements of this bustling Hong Kong district into a captivating video that emphasizes sustainability. Alongside this, she weaves in the rich heritage of Italy, showcasing the charming streets and the lively markets of Italy. Through a blend of traditional motifs and contemporary aesthetics, Zoie highlights the rich street life, local markets, and architectural gems that define both Sham Shui Po and Italy, while showcasing sustainable practices and initiatives from these communities. The video, designed to be displayed in the “Tunnel of Future Innovations” connecting CityUHK and Festival Walk, serves as a visual journey, inviting viewers to experience the dynamic energy and cultural heritage of both areas while promoting awareness of environmental responsibility. |
| Date: 27 November – 14 December
Time: 09:00 – 23:00 Venue: G/F, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui In Collaboration With: Hong Kong Ballet Intro: The Hong Kong Ballet is set to create a mesmerising art installation inspired by Michelangelo Pistoletto’s Third Paradise, incorporating ballet elements and materials from the popular Nutcracker ballet. Located in the main foyer of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, this innovative piece will blend the elegance of ballet with a powerful sustainability message through upcycling practices. Incorporating costumes, props and sets from The Nutcracker, the installation will celebrate the beauty of artistic expression and highlight the importance of environmental awareness. Every element will symbolise the harmony between nature and artistry, prompting viewers to contemplate their connection to the environment. |
| Third Paradise Flash Mob
A Third Paradise-themed flash mob will take place in Hong Kong on 18 November in CityUHK. This flash mob will present the complete form of the Third Paradise in a performing arts format, creating a surprise showcase integrating music, art and sustainability. |
Bringing Together Hong Kong (China) and Italian Design Power
The FASHION TO RECONNECT Fashion Exhibition Creates an Immersive Journey of Sustainable Aesthetics
The FASHION TO RECONNECT fashion exhibition will be held from 25 November to 24 December at ArtisTree in Taikoo Place. Created by Fondazione Pistoletto Cittadellarte and curated by Tiziano Guardini in collaboration with GuardiniCiuffredaStudio, it features sustainable fashion pieces from Italy, selected by Fondazione Pistoletto Cittadellarte in partnership with Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana. The exhibition showcases the diversity of Italian fashion, featuring 15 established brands, emerging designers and outstanding artisan businesses. For the first time, the exhibition will also include shoes with a curated selection from archives. There will also be a special section highlighting the creative works of 9 Hong Kong-based designers, demonstrating how sustainability is at the core in the Asian context as well.
| FASHION TO RECONNECT Fashion Exhibition |
| Date: 25 November – 24 December Time: Monday to Friday (12:00 – 20:00) Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays (11:00 – 20:00) Venue: ArtisTree, Taikoo Place |
| FASHION TO RECONNECT Exhibition Pop-Up |
| Date: 26 November – 9 December Time: Open all day Venue: 1/F Lobby, Devon House, Taikoo Place (Outside ArtisTree) |
Symposium, Roundtable and Seminars
Discussing Strategies for Cultural Exchange between East and West in the Creative Industries
To foster deeper industry dialogue, FASHION TO RECONNECT will host a symposium, a roundtable and 2 seminars on fashion and art at Soho House in Sheung Wan on 27 and 28 November. These events will bring together scholars, designers, industry leaders and business representatives from Hong Kong (China), Italy and around the world. They will focus on key topics in sustainable fashion, cultural heritage, and cross-sectorial collaborations.
| FASHION TO RECONNECT 1-Day Symposium |
| Date: 27 November Time: 09:00 – 19:00 Venue: Soho House |
| FASHION TO RECONNECT Roundtable & Seminars |
| Date: 28 November Time: 09:00 – 16:00 Venue: Soho House |
Hashtag: #FASHIONTORECONNECT #CLASSofCityUHK
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About The College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at City University of Hong Kong
The College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS) at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) is a vibrant hub for multi-sectoral collaboration and impactful research, dedicated to advancing knowledge and addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing world. With a focus on fostering intellectual curiosity, innovation and critical thinking, CLASS includes 7 different departments offering diverse programmes in humanities and social sciences and preparing talents for different sectors, including the creative and cultural industries. The College is also committed to helping students become globally-minded leaders and innovators. Through its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, international engagement, and experiential learning, CLASS plays a pivotal role in nurturing future leaders in Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, and beyond.
CUHK’s Academic Excellence and Global Research Impact
CUHK’s academic rigour is further recognised in the 2026–27 Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report, where it ranks 28th globally and 5th in Asia, remaining Hong Kong’s top university for the fourth consecutive year. The University features 15 subjects in the global top 50, including five in the top 10, such as Education and Educational Research (#1), Gastroenterology and Hepatology (#2), Computer Science (#7), and Arts and Humanities and Artificial Intelligence (both ranked #9).
CUHK: Where Bold Ideas Become Impactful Research
CUHK provides an exceptional environment for impactful research, supported by approximately 300 research institutes and centres, alongside four state key laboratories approved by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China. Reflecting on the academic environment, Zhamilya Zhirenova, a PhD student in Biomedical Science from Kazakhstan, has deepened her expertise through her involvement with the Centre for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine (CNRM), an InnoHK research centre CUHK established with Sweden’s Karolinska Institutet.
Unlike traditional research pathways, where students are often confined to a single university laboratory, Zhamilya gained extensive experience at Hong Kong Science Park, a dynamic setting that closely resembles industry. “It feels more like an industrial company,” she reflected, “and that experience has been invaluable.” For researchers with ambitions beyond academia, such early exposure to the pace and expectations of the biotech industry provides a distinct advantage.
Nurturing the Next Generation of Scientific Innovators
Many of CUHK’s scholars are globally renowned experts who have made significant breakthroughs in their respective fields. These experts provide valuable mentorship, cultivating an intellectually stimulating environment for innovative research.
At the Centre for Novostics, an InnoHK research centre dedicated to advancing molecular diagnostics, Yasine Malki, a Chemical Pathology PhD student from Hong Kong, highlighted mentorship as a defining aspect of his experience at CUHK. Benefiting from the mentorship of Professor Dennis Lo, CUHK’s Vice-Chancellor and President, and a pioneer in molecular diagnostics, Yasine collaborates with specialists in molecular technologies, bioinformatics, and clinician-scientists, exemplifying CUHK’s dynamic, multidisciplinary approach to medical science.
Through the latest global rankings, CUHK continues to demonstrate the impact of its research and scholarship. The University offers robust financial support to attract top-tier global talent, such as the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) for the 2027–28 intake, which provides over HK$1.81 million (approximately US$232,420) in funding. Applications open on 1 September 2026.
Hashtag: #CUHK
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About CUHK
Founded in 1963, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is a leading comprehensive research university with a global reputation and world-leading rankings. Located in the heart of Asia, CUHK has a vision and a mission to combine tradition with modernity, and to bring together China and the West. The University has eight faculties: Arts, Business Administration, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine, Science, and Social Science. Together with the Graduate School, the University offers over 300 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. All faculties are actively engaged in research in a wide range of disciplines, with an array of research institutes and research centres specialising in interdisciplinary research of the highest quality.
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HKDL’s Immersive Interactive Experiences Win Guests’ Hearts Lucky Nugget Spin at Grizzly Gulch Surpasses 30,000 Participations
Immersive experiences fuel collectible merchandise craze and extend magical memories
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 July 2026 – In tune with the growing popularity of experiential travel and guests’ desire for participation and immersive experiences throughout their journeys, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) has been integrating retail with storytelling at the park through an endless flow of innovative interactive experiences and distinctive merchandise offerings. Emotional connections with guests are strengthened as merchandise is transformed into meaningful souvenirs interwoven with their Disney memories.
Launched in April this year at Grizzly Gulch, the Chip ‘n’ Dale Lucky Nugget Spin has recorded more than 30,000 participations as of the end of June, becoming one of the park’s most popular activities. Combining storytelling, live interactions, and surprises, the experience has been warmly received by guests and has further enhanced the atmosphere throughout the land.
David Koo, director of merchandise at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, shared: ‘Today’s guests are looking for more than products; they want keepsakes that capture the stories and memories of their visit. Through interactive experiences, we hope to make merchandise a natural extension of the Disney park journey. Whether it is a plush toy, a pin or an accessory, the true value lies not only in the item itself, but in the magical moments and personal memories it represents.’
David Koo, director of merchandise at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, is pictured in the center
This story- and interaction-driven strategy has been incorporated into various guest experiences across the resort. For example, in an engaging experience at the Popcorn Pop-Up Shop on Main Street, U.S.A., guests can reach into a giant popcorn bucket-themed installation to catch a “popcorn” and reveal the hidden Pixar pals plushie together with Disney cast members on the spot. Meanwhile, the Snow White Grotto, located beside the Castle of Magical Dreams, has introduced a new “Lock of Dreams” experience, offering guests a sense of ceremony and a souvenir to cherish.
Disney’s Classic Pin Trading Tradition Extends the Magic Beyond the Visit
Disney’s iconic Pin Trading tradition has long been an important part of how guests explore the park and connect with others. Reopened in June, Main Street Collectibles now features dedicated pin display areas designed to celebrate and elevate this beloved tradition. Guests can discover unexpected treasures while searching for favorite designs as they trade pins with Disney cast members and fellow collectors. More than just an addition to a collection, each pin carries unique memories and extends the guest journey.
More Than 3.5 Million 20th Anniversary Merchandise Items Snapped up
New Pixar and Marvel Experiences on the Way
Merchandise sales grew continuously during Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th anniversary celebrations, which attracted a large number of local, mainland, and international visitors and concluded with fanfare in June. Since late June last year, the resort has sold more than 3.5 million 20th Anniversary-themed merchandise. Among them, about 600,000 units of the SouvenEARS collection have been snapped up. Meanwhile, the blind-box series inspired by attractions and themed lands achieved sales of more than 500,000 units during fiscal year 2025, demonstrating the continued popularity of merchandise with strong storytelling elements and collectible appeal.
Looking ahead, HKDL will continue to enrich the guest experience across the resort. New Pixar-themed and Marvel-themed experiences will be introduced, further expanding both entertainment and retail offerings. Through ongoing innovation, HKDL remains committed to meeting guests’ demand for more immersive experiences, enhancing its appeal to local, mainland, and international visitors, and strengthening its position as a leading travel destination in the region.
Hashtag: #HongKongDisneylandResort
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The HR Asia Awards are among Asia’s most prestigious annual human resources awards, recognizing organizations that demonstrate excellence in workplace culture and sustainable people development. Winners are evaluated using the TEAM (Total Engagement Assessment Model), which measures employee engagement, organizational trust, and workplace experience, drawing on benchmarking data from more than 2.5 million employees across 20,000 organizations throughout the region.
According to the independent assessment conducted for the HR Asia Awards 2026, Green SM significantly outperformed market benchmarks in the “Best Companies to Work for in Asia” category, achieving outstanding scores across several key dimensions, including technology enablement in the workplace (4.8/5), workplace sustainability (4.71/5), and diversity, equity, and inclusion (4.72/5).
A defining element of Green SM’s workplace culture is its unwavering commitment to the principle that “Every Voice Counts.” This commitment is embedded through comprehensive employee engagement initiatives, including regular internal surveys, 360-degree performance evaluations, and multiple feedback channels that transform employee insights into tangible improvements in policies, workplace practices, and operational excellence.
At Green SM, talent development is viewed not merely as an HR function but as a strategic driver of service excellence. The Company continues to invest comprehensively in recruitment, professional training, operational standardization, workplace culture, and structured career development pathways for its Green Drivers. In parallel, Green SM delivers continuous capability-building programs for managers and employees, combining practical learning with digital learning platforms to strengthen leadership and management capabilities and organizational agility in an evolving business environment.
Alongside its investment in people, Green SM has been progressively building a unified organizational culture across its international markets. Rooted in values established in Vietnam while embracing the diversity of local cultures and communities, the Company fosters an environment that encourages collaboration, continuous learning, and empowerment. This enables teams across different countries to uphold consistent service standards while remaining responsive to the unique needs of local customers and communities.
Green SM also received the Technology Empowerment Awards in recognition of its continued digital transformation in human resource management. Through the digitalization of HR processes, the development of competency frameworks, the expansion of digital learning ecosystems, and the integration of data-driven people management, the Company has streamlined repetitive administrative tasks, enhanced decision-making efficiency, and enabled employees to devote greater focus to innovation, customer experience, and superior service delivery.
Mr. Nguyen Quoc Tuan, Global Chief Executive Officer of Green SM, said: “Our people have always been the cornerstone of Green SM’s sustainable growth. We believe that when individuals are empowered by technology and united by shared values, our teams across every market can deliver exceptional experiences for our customers. These two awards affirm the direction we have taken and further strengthen our commitment to building a truly multinational organization with its roots in Vietnam.”
In 2026, Green SM aims to expand its global workforce and partner network to approximately 400,000 people worldwide. As the Company continues to accelerate its international expansion, it will further invest in talent development and technology-driven people management to build a highly capable global workforce, maintain consistent service excellence across markets, and advance its vision of becoming the world’s leading green mobility platform.
Hashtag: #GreenSM
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