Three Leaders, One Message: HA Students’ “Say YES” Lights Up HSUHK Convocation 2026 

At HSUHK Convocation 2026 on 3 September, more than 2,500 new students filled the hall with excitement, and yes, a little nervousness too. It was a proud welcome moment for the University. It was also a proud HA moment. 

On stage were three HA student leaders: Prelish Gurung and Brayden Chung from HA6, joined by Ocean Ng (HA3), returning as a HA Graduate Awardee and a current Master’s student in Japan. They were confident, joyful, and completely themselves. The theme they brought to the whole hall was simple:  

Say “YES”. Not to everything, but to the right first step. 

What made the sharing stand out was not only the message, but the way it was delivered. Prelish and Brayden felt like two “HA brothers” on stage. They teased each other, bounced off each other’s timing, and kept the whole hall laughing in that comfortable way that says.  Under the jokes was something sincere. They were not performing a perfect university life. They were showing how they built one through choices, small steps, and a willingness to try. 

Instead of listing achievements, they told stories with personality. Their “yes” moments were not glamorous at the start. They were the kind of everyday decisions students face all the time. Joining a programme. Taking on a role. Showing up for a community. Learning to juggle. Saying yes, then learning how to carry it.  

Ocean’s entrance completed the picture. She felt like the “future version” in the room, not distant, not untouchable, but genuinely present. She spoke from experience and made the theme feel grounded. Yes comes with real questions. Time, pressure, resources, direction.  She reminded students that purpose is built over time, and that the first step is often simply choosing to begin.  

They closed with a message that felt like HA family spirit. You belong here. Start small. Stay consistent. One day, we will see you on this stage too. 

After the sharing, they were not only admired on stage. They were sought out off stage. Students came up asking questions, wanting details, and asking how to take their own first step.  

That is leadership. It continues after the applause. 

Thank you, Ocean, Brayden, and Prelish. We are proud of you, and grateful for how you continue to represent HA at HSUHK and beyond, through your presence and your willingness to give back.