As part of the DBS Trust Your Spark content series in Hong Kong, this film aims to demonstrate how DBS, as a purpose-driven bank, supports V Cycle, one of the businesses for impact that won a DBS Foundation Grant in 2023 to expand their social impact. The film features Eric Swinton, V Cycle’s founder and CEO, and his mission and vision to improve livelihoods and provide dignity to elderly cardboard collectors while integrating this with his environmental mission to increase Hong Kong’s plastic recycling rate. We also interviewed Mrs. Lee, in her 80s and one of V Cycle’s employees, to share her happiness working in this joyful, purpose-driven environment.
Country of Origin Hong Kong
Language Cantonese| English Subtitles
Director Ethan Lee
Producer Meology Limited
* Special Screenings
These films are invited to be showcased for their exceptional storytelling and relevance to this year’s theme, though they are not part of the competition.
V Cycle, founded by Eric Swinton, is tackling Hong Kong’s plastic pollution by promoting a circular economy, while creating safe job opportunities for senior waste pickers. The social enterprise employs a team of elderly to sort through recyclables, which are then upcycled into useful furniture or everyday items.
Despite facing funding challenges, Eric’s expansion plans gained momentum when he received the DBS Foundation Grant, which provided crucial funding and all-round support from the bank, allowing Eric to acquire machinery to scale production and uplift even more vulnerable individuals.
DBS Foundation, established in 2014 with an SGD 50 million fund, is Singapore’s first foundation focused on fostering social enterprises and businesses for impact. It champions innovative, sustainable businesses that address societal and environmental challenges across Asia. The foundation provides grants, mentorship, and capacity-building support to empower these businesses.
Share this post
Please fill in the info below:
Note: Fields with an asterisk* are required.
We’ve received your message, and we’ll get back to you soon…
