The 64th Ten Outstanding Young Persons Selection Program officially kicked off on Thursday, April 9, with Vice-President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) serving as the chair of the selection panel. Winners of the event organized by Junior Chamber International’s Taiwan chapter will be submitted for consideration to the Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World.

Hsiao said at a press conference that Taiwan needs a younger generation with an international perspective and innovative thinking. She believes young people aspire to more than just to “lie flat” - a popular term in the Chinese-speaking world meaning giving up on ambitions.

Hsiao said the world is at a turning point in history due to the geopolitical situation, the impact of climate change and new technologies. But amid these shifts, Taiwan should not be a bystander but rather become a trusted partner within the global democratic community and an indispensable force in safeguarding economic development and social stability.