Making this possible are the collaborative efforts of society and individuals. On the one hand, increased media coverage and events promoting the cultures of different ethnic minorities have increased the exposure of the local community with people who they had once considered ‘strangers’ or ‘foreigners’. Such exposure, leading to better mutual understanding, slowly but surely is breaking down the ice wall between ethnic groups. Furthermore, with the aid of various non-governmental organizations, the voices of ethnic minorities are being heard and there is increased awareness of their needs. One particular need is the need to acquire linguistic competence in English and Cantonese as these languages are the key to better opportunities locally.  This need and many more are being met through the implementation of governmental policies in education and society that help ethnic minorities move towards better prospects.

However, none of this would make a difference if individuals of ethnic minorities were unwilling to learn to integrate into the local community. In our case studies, it can be clearly seen that those who identified themselves as Hong Kongers were those who embraced the local culture and put in much effort to learn Cantonese and/or English while still respecting their roots. Because of their willingness to associate with the Chinese community despite its obvious difficulties and obstacles, they were well-received.