In a city known for challenging property prices and a competitive living environment, finding quality affordable housing remains a pressing issue for many of Hong Kong’s young people. It’s against this backdrop that the Home² Youth Hostel project (Home²) emerged — a collaborative effort between Chinachem Group’s Nina Hospitality and The Y.Elites Association (YEA), designed to offer not just a place to live, but a platform for growth, connection, and empowerment.
At the helm of this initiative is Jason Wong, Chairman of YEA, who explains that the project is a direct response to the government’s Youth Development Blueprint. “We wanted to create more than just accommodation, we wanted to build a community where young people can thrive,” says Wong. The hostel, which opened within Nina Hotel Tsuen Wan West in August 2023, offers quality living spaces at 60% below the surrounding neighbourhood market rate, helping to ease the financial burden on working youth, while providing access to hotel amenities including a gym, swimming pool, and a stylishly designed communal lounge.
But the vision goes beyond affordability. Through close collaboration between Nina Hospitality and YEA, the space has been thoughtfully tailored to support the holistic needs of residents; from functional facilities to curated programmes like career talks, cultural events, and community engagement. “It’s about creating an environment that resonates with today’s youth,” Wong emphasises. “We’re supporting them not only in their living arrangements, but also in their personal and professional journeys.”
The impact is already being felt. Kenny Chung, a resident and a start-up founder, shared how the subsidised rent has allowed him to redirect funds toward his business, while the community events have opened doors to new friendships and professional networks. “It’s more than a place to live—it’s a launchpad,” he enthused.
Chinachem Group’s involvement underscores a deeper commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable community building. By transforming hotel space into a dynamic living environment, the Group is helping to foster a generation of resilient, connected, and ambitious young adults — proof that corporate social responsibility can be both meaningful and transformative.
Through initiatives like Home², Chinachem is doing more than providing shelter —the Group is helping shape the future. Guided by our philosophy of Creating Places with Heart, the Group is committed to being a launchpad for young people, empowering them to explore their dreams and watch them take flight. The Home² Youth Hostel project is just one of many initiatives undertaken to support the next generation. Helping them achieve their aspirations is a long-term mission — one that contributes to making Hong Kong a more liveable and inclusive city.
