Disabled Hong Kong tour guides get creative in building careers by making education about their conditions a major attraction
- Vincent Li introduces tourists to the characteristics and history of districts across the city, while also shining a spotlight on cerebral palsy
At first glance, Vincent Li Pok looks like your average 33-year-old Hongkonger, sporting a neat undercut, blue shirt and khakis. But as he introduces the history of Sunbeam Theatre in North Point to participants on a Touch Journey community tour, he speaks and walks a little slower than most.
Li was born with cerebral palsy, a neurological condition which affects muscle movements. Growing up, he was concerned that his disability would prevent him finding a job. But through working at social enterprises, Li has come to embrace his condition and play up his strengths.
“I type slowly, so I avoid looking for administrative jobs. I let employers know what I’m good at, such as running projects,” he says.
Hoping others like him will learn to do the same, Li founded Touch Journey last September.
In addition to introducing participants to the characteristics, history and recent developments of districts across Hong Kong, Touch Journey also shines a spotlight on the tour guide.
