Public registration officially opened on Tuesday for a major citywide team orienteering event designed to blend urban exploration in Hong Kong with experiential education and holistic development of young people.

The “BOC Life Wild in the City Orienteering Challenge 2027” will take place across the Tsuen Wan and Kwai Tsing districts on Jan 24. Co-organized by Bank of China Group Life Assurance (BOC Life) and The Hong Kong Award for Young People (AYP), with support from the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau, the initiative echoes the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government’s Youth Development Blueprint by fostering positive thinking and empowerment of young people.

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Under this year’s theme, “City Weaver”, participants will navigate local architectural sites, historical landmarks, and cultural hubs on foot or via public transport (excluding taxis). In a unique educational twist, the challenge integrates intangible cultural heritage — such as Hakka patterned band weaving — into its checkpoints, turning urban neighborhoods into living classrooms to deepen young people’s cultural literacy, identity, and sense of community belonging.

Wilson Tang Chee-ping, chief executive of BOC Life, said the initiative is committed to building essential life skills. “By incorporating intangible cultural heritage, we hope to deepen young people’s appreciation and sense of belonging toward Hong Kong’s culture while cultivating resilience, communication skills, and team spirit,” he said.

Beyond cultural appreciation, the activity serves as a vehicle for soft-skills acquisition and mental fortitude. Event ambassador and ice climber Janet Kung said that participating in AYP programs equipped her with critical problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.

“Participating in AYP improved my resilience and problem-solving skills, and I also learned to persevere in moving toward my goals and pursuing my dreams,” Kung said, highlighting how navigation challenges help young people learn to weigh trade-offs, balance priorities, and make strategic choices under dynamic conditions.

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Joyce Chan, director of AYP, said the event aims to promote orienteering while driving positive social impact among young people, families, and the broader community.

Designed to accommodate participants of all skill levels — from total beginners to seasoned orienteers — the challenge invites registration from family groups, friends, and corporate teams.