Mental health stands as a paramount concern deep-seated across generations in today's world. Professor Winnie Mak, Director of the Diversity and Well-Being Laboratory and Professor of Psychology at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, inspired JC Scholars by sharing her personal journey and commitment to reducing stigma around mental health.

Professor Mak, who faced stigma during her teenage years, later found solace in studying mindfulness, which unexpectedly led to a profound personal epiphany. Since then, despite facing challenges, Professor Mak pursued her fascination with stigma and its implications, an uncommon topic back then.

As a community-based clinical psychologist, Professor Mak is dedicated to fostering social equality and well-being for all, and translating research into practice. Given the lengthy waiting times and high costs of local public mental health services experienced by the public, she leverages technology, from social media to AI, to create an integrated online platform for those seeking help. Professor Mak co-founded the social enterprise "StoryTaler" (https://www.storytalerhk.org/) and developed an online mental health platform "Jockey Club TourHeart+" Project (https://www.jcthplus.org/), aimed at supporting emerging adults in Hong Kong. 

Professor Mak's insights have demonstrated the transformative power of personal storytelling, and encouraged JC Scholars to collectively erase stigma and build a more compassionate society.

Words from participating JC Scholars

• Professor Mak's reminder of our shared interconnectedness inspired me to reflect on the kind of person I wanted to be and how I could make a difference in the world with courage, kindness, and understanding, while staying true to my values, no matter how small.

• While eradicating social stigma is not the "mainstream" focus for clinical psychologists, I truly admire Professor Mak's courage to pursue something different and something that has a profound impact on society.

• As a future medical professional, Professor Mak's insights truly reminds me of the importance of removing stigma even within the medical field.

Professor Mak encourages scholars to embrace a more diversified and compassionate society

Professor Mak shares her passion for social equality with JC Scholars