What began as a vision to create Hong Kong’s first university student-run coffee shop has now come to life through the collaborative efforts of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA), the Office of Research and Knowledge Transfer Services (ORKTS), and the Minor Program in Entrepreneurship and Innovation (EPIN), under the ” Cu-SuCCeSS – Student-run Coffee Shop Startup”. This innovative initiative has garnered enthusiastic participation and attention from many CUHK students. It aims to cultivate students’ entrepreneurial spirit and innovative mindset. By operating their own coffee shop, students are able to incoporate their passion and creativity into practice and experience a journey of self-discovery.
Although the journey to establish this student-run café was fraught with challenges, the perseverance and diligence of the student team finally contributed to “The Infinity Room” Grand Opening on 13th September 2024. During the event, students shared their journey in the past year, expressing how the opportunity to create their own coffee shop added a meaningful and vibrant chapter to their university life. They also hope that The Infinity Room will serve as a hub, connecting the diverse communities at CUHK and contributing to the growth and vibrancy of the campus.
The opening ceremony was honored by the presence of Professor Rocky S. Tuan, Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Alan K.L. Chan, Provost, Professor Nick Rawlins, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, and Professor Ko Wing Hung, University Dean of Students, and distinguished guests who together celebrated the successful launch of the “Cu-SuCCeSS”. The student managers personally guided the professors in using their own custom-designed coffee filters, demonstrating pour-over coffee and latte art techniques, adding a fun and interactive element to the event. The student team also crafted a giant cake further enhancing the festive atmosphere of the occasion.
The day was filled with a variety of engaging activities, including a traditional lion dance performance, and guests were invited to write their best wishes for the café on wishing cards. Two artists were also present to create live sketch portraits for guests, leaving them with unique keepsakes from the event. The Infinity Room plans to host art exhibitions and activities, integrating art into daily life and offering each visitor an opportunity for artistic inspiration and creative engagement.
As mentioned in “Message from the Vice-Chancellor”, The Infinity Room aspires to become a social-cultural hub of the University community, providing a space for students, alumni, and staff to connect and gather. It is not only a haven for coffee lovers but also a stage for students to showcase their talents and bring their creative ideas to life. We warmly invite everyone to visit The Infinity Room, experience the passion and creativity of the student managers, and make this vibrant space an essential part of campus life!