The Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) was founded in London in 1868 and is comprised of 70 self-governing bodies in 53 countries around the world. It is an international organization and educational charity which works to promote knowledge and appreciation of the Commonwealth and to support its fundamental values. Through educational and youth outreach programmes, RCS seeks to encourage young people to develop their role as global citizens and to engage with challenges facing the international community.
RCS, Hong Kong Branch aims to foster international understanding and to arrange cultural and charitable activities based on the shared history and language of Commonwealth countries. RCS organizes events in various venues such as the Hong Kong Club, Helena May and the Ladies Recreation Club. Over the past few years, it has invited many overseas professionals and Consuls-General to speak at its events. It also supports a number of local charities, such as Camp Quality (HK) (providing holidays for children with cancer); Au Kim Hung Love and Care Association (providing education to underprivileged children in China); Ebenezer School for the Blind; the Child Development Centre (supporting children’s special educational needs); the China Coast Community (caring for elderly non-Chinese residents); Mother’s Choice (adoption and fostering services); Little Life Warriors (helping children with cancer); Integrated Brilliant Education Trust (providing Chinese tuition for ethnic minority children such as Indians, Pakistanis and Nepalese); Epilepsy Awareness and Autism Awareness Foundation.
Active diplomatic members in Hong Kong include the Consuls-General of Australia, Britain, Canada, India, Malaysia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, Singapore and South Africa.
The President of the RCS in Hong Kong is Mr Neville S. Shroff and Patrons are Dr Aron Hari Harilela and Mr Andrew R. Wells.