Parent-Child Communication: How to Connect and Support Each Other
For many parents and young people, good communication can be a real challenge—especially in Chinese families, where some topics, like mental health, are hard to talk about. In this session, YouTuber Hanna Vanharanta and her family will share their unique cultural perspective and fun family interactions. They will talk about how they communicate and support each other, and how to build relationships based on listening and understanding.
Hanna, a 20-year-old YouTuber with over 230,000 subscribers, grew up in a family that blends Hong Kong and Finnish cultures. Her videos delve into themes of family and identity, from unboxing DNA test results to open conversations in her "Girl Talk with Mum" series, which highlights her family’s authentic and transparent dialogue. In this panel discussion, Hanna and her parents will share their experiences of navigating life with a unique cultural background. They will discuss how they cultivate honest and open communication, active listening, and a supportive family dynamic.
Host
Mr. Ernest Wong
Clinical Psychologist
Mr. Ernest Wong is a registered clinical psychologist currently practicing at HealthyMind Child Development Centre and pursuing a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of Hong Kong. He has extensive experience in youth and community mental health, with a focus on supporting students, parents, educators, and social workers. He previously served as a clinical psychologist and Unit-in-charge at the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups. Beyond clinical practice, Mr. Wong is actively involved in professional training and education. He currently serves as a Clinical Supervisor at Mind HK and sits on the board of Teach For Hong Kong, contributing to the development of local education and youth mental health initiatives.
Speakers
Ms. Hanna Vanharanta
Content Creator
Ms. Hanna Vanharanta is a Finnish-Hong Kong content creator, speaker, and recent graduate of The University of Hong Kong. Born in Hong Kong and raised in the UK during her early childhood, she draws from a multicultural upbringing that blends European and Asian influences. Best known for her YouTube channel (launched in her early teens) Hanna has grown into a distinctive voice among young creators. With over 234,000 subscribers and 168,000 Instagram followers, she offers lifestyle content that chronicles her journey as a 22-year-old navigating adulthood, identity, and ambition in a fast-paced world. Offscreen, Hanna is an inspiring public speaker, including two appearances on TED Talk stages, where she advocates for youth creativity and cultural identity.
Dr. Phoebe Wong
Hanna’s Mother, Senior Lecturer at PolyU SPEED
Dr. Phoebe Wong is a senior lecturer at PolyU SPEED. She is a dedicated educator and scholar committed to creating an environment that fosters her students’ academic growth and success. Phoebe takes great pride in witnessing their growth and success, actively encouraging them to pursue their passions and achieve their dreams. Her enthusiasm for teaching inspires students to embrace new opportunities and reach their full potential.
Mr. Markus Vanharanta
Hanna’s Father, Associate Professor of Marketing at the UCD College of Business
Mr. Markus Vanharanta is an associate professor of marketing at the UCD College of Business. Originally from Finland, his journey has taken him across the United Kingdom, Japan, the United States, and Hong Kong—cultivating a truly global perspective. A passionate advocate for intercultural understanding, Markus bridges Eastern and Western traditions through education and dialogue. Beyond the classroom, Markus has helped build strategic educational partnerships across Asia, visiting more than 20 cities a year and engaging in public speaking, outreach, and community-building.
Time: 13:00 - 13:45
Venue: The Qube
Language: Cantonese
