THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ethnically diverse communities by reducing suffering and providing opportunities NEWS/ HONG KONG/ CITY Press Release – Embargo until 10.30 am on 18 April 2026
A New Blue Door Opens at Austin MTR: Zubin’s Family Centre Expands Expanding access and opportunity for Hong Kong’s ethnically diverse communities Hong Kong, 18 April 2026 – For many families from the ethnically diverse communities navigating poverty, isolation or mental health challenges, support is not just a service – but it is a lifeline. Today, The Zubin Foundation, a Hong Kong registered charity supporting ethnically diverse communities, celebrated the opening of the Zubin’s Family Centre Extension, known as “The Blue Door”, at Austin MTR Station, marking a significant milestone in expanding access to culturally sensitive community services. The opening ceremony was officiated by Mr Chris Sun, Secretary for Labour and Welfare, and joined by community partners, donors and families who rely on the Centre for everyday support.
From One Child’s Voice to a Community’s Future The ceremony opened with a courageous sharing by Abdul, a 14‑year‑old Hong Kong‑born service user receiving therapies at the Centre, who spoke publicly for the first time. His words offered a powerful reminder of why safe, accessible spaces matter, and how early, culturally appropriate support can change lives. “I sometimes felt very angry or sad and didn’t know how to control myself,” said Abdul. “They (The Zubin Foundation) helped me learn how to calm down. Now I feel better, I have friends at school, and I’m happy. I’m glad the Centre is getting bigger, because it means more children like me can get help.”
A Centre Built on Access and Inclusion: Why the Expansion Matters Originally opened in 2023, Zubin’s Family Centre was the first facility in Hong Kong to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate counselling support to ethnically diverse families. Its location within the MTR network has made it accessible to service users travelling from across the city. As demand grew, particularly for women, youth and mental health services, so did the need for space. The Centre extension enables The Zubin Foundation to deepen its impact and respond more effectively to community needs. Shalini Mahtani, Founder & CEO, The Zubin Foundation reflected on the Centre extension, “Today marks more than the extension of a physical space. It represents our continued commitment to improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ethnically diverse communities. Since opening Zubin’s Family Centre in 2024, this location has been a game changer, bringing elderly individuals, children with special needs, women and girls, young people and those facing mental‑health challenges directly to our doorstep, from across Hong Kong, rain or shine. The ‘Blue Door’ symbolises openness and possibility. By expanding this Centre, we are better equipped to respond to growing needs and to ensure that support is not limited by distance, cost or circumstance. None of this would be possible without strong partnership. We are deeply grateful to the
© 2026 The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344). All rights reserved.
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