IP King-him Mike || BBA (Hons) Marketing || Inima de Copil, Romania

After a life-changing voyage in Romania, Ip King-him Mike is inpired to help the underprivileged with his marketing skills in the future.

Through AIESEC, the world’s largest student-run organisation, Mike received a placement offer to work for a non-governmental child organisation, Fundatia Inima de Copil (Heart of a Child Foundation), in Romania. The foundation helps and supports children and youth in need, such as orphans, the homeless and and sick children through through a wide range of social services.

Responsible for the planning and implementation of a strategic marketing plan, Mike effectively and efficiently applied what he learnt in university in his work during the two-month internship. With his knowledge of market research, he organised and implemented a comprehensive marketing plan and made constructive recommendations for the sustainable development of the foundation. For instance, he suggested different marketing and fundraising techniques to the foundation to raise public awareness and call for support.

While his marketing skills were strengthened, he also learnt to be observant and to analyse problems objectively. “It was a valuable opportunity for me to present my marketing plan in front of all the top management. This experience effectively enhanced my presentation skills in workplace. My study at PolyU has prepared me well for formal presentations in the workplace,” Mike says.

Enlightenment from the trip

Apart from the internship, Mike participated in a summer camp with 30 children from the organisation. In the camp, Mike delivered a cultural session to introduce the Hong Kong and Chinese culture. The children were all curious about Chinese culture and excited to know more about it. Mike enjoyed spending time with the children as they were fun to be with and allowed him to learn more about their needs.

Mike was deeply touched by his colleagues’ zeal for helping the deprived children and providing them a better life. “I realise that to give is better than to receive. We are lucky to lead a prosperous life and should not take everything for granted. We need to treasure what we have and at the same time give a helping hand to those in need,” Mike says.

The best marketers understand the real needs of the market and provide the best solutions in return. Mike believes a responsible global citizen should apply this marketing core value to people in need in society. “I hope in the near future, I can utilise my marketing capabilities and creativity to help those in need, “ Mike says. “My ultimate goal is to start my own business and therefore provide more financial aid to the poor.”