Honours Academy (HA) Graduate Award is a prestigious distinction established to recognise outstanding graduates of HA at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSUHK). First introduced in the 2020-21 academic year, this Award celebrates students who have demonstrated excellence in leadership, academic achievement, community service, and active participation in experiential learning initiatives within both the HA and HSUHK communities.
Eligible nominees are those who showcase a strong learning attitude and exceptional social and interpersonal skills, contributing positively to the shared experiences within the University. Each year, up to four graduates are recognised for their outstanding contributions, receiving a mark of distinction that acknowledges their dedication to excellence and service.
Recipients of the HA Graduate Award are selected not only for their academic and intellectual excellence but also for their commitment to community engagement. Through this Award, the HA aspires to inspire future cohorts to embody these values and beyond, encouraging them to engage meaningfully in their academic journeys and civic responsibilities.
HA Graduate Award not only honours individual achievements, but also reinforces the importance of ethical leadership and community-mindedness in shaping well-rounded and socially responsible graduates.
Selection Process for the HA Graduate Award
Honours Academy (HA) Graduate Award follows a highly selective and diligent process to ensure that the recognition is conferred upon HA graduates who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, academic excellence, community service, and active participation in the HA and HSUHK communities. The selection process involves several key stages:
Nomination by HA Management and Secretariat Team
The selection process begins with the HA Management and Secretariat Team, who carefully review the achievements and contributions of eligible HA graduates throughout their HA and HSUHK journeys. After a thorough evaluation, a list of nominees is proposed based on their demonstrated impact within the and the broader university community.
Comprehensive Evaluation and Deliberation
Following the nomination stage, the team engages in extensive deliberation to assess each candidate’s qualifications. This process includes a detailed review of the nominees’ academic performance, leadership roles, community engagement, and interpersonal skills. All aspects of the candidates’ contributions to the HA and HSUHK are considered during this phase.
Unanimous Voting
After completing the evaluation, the committee conducts a formal vote to select up to four graduates as awardees. A nominee can only be selected if they receive unanimous support from the committee. This emphasizes the rigorous nature of the selection process and ensures that each chosen graduate meets the highest standards of excellence.
Endorsement by the Honours Academy Board
The selected candidates’ portfolios, which detail their accomplishments and contributions, are then submitted to the Honours Academy Board for formal endorsement. The Board conducts a final review to confirm that the nominees reflect the core values and mission of the HA.
Final Approval and Announcement
Following the endorsement by the Honours Academy Board, the nominees are submitted to the Scholarship and Financial Assistance Committee (SFAC) for final approval. Once approved, the recipients’ names are publicly announced, and the HA Graduate Award is conferred to recognise their exceptional dedication to excellence and service.
Awardees of Honours Academy “Unite as One” Graduate Award 2026
When I first joined the Honours Academy, I was still figuring out who I was and where I wanted to go. Looking back, HA has not simply given me opportunities to achieve more. It has given me opportunities to understand myself—and to think more carefully about what I can offer to others.
Throughout my HA journey, I have met people with different personalities, perspectives, and ways of doing things. These experiences have taught me that things will not always happen as I expect, and that even the best intentions and careful preparation cannot guarantee a smooth journey. There have been moments of uncertainty and frustration, but I have learned to give myself some credit when I know I have made a genuine effort and tried my best. Not every effort brings an immediate result. Sometimes, its value becomes clear later, through a lesson learned, a relationship built, or the confidence to try again.
People often ask me, “What can you gain from HA?” It is a fair question, but I have come to appreciate another one: “What can I give to HA?” For me, this shift towards contribution has been an important part of growing up. Not everything we do needs to bring an immediate benefit or become another line on our CV. Sometimes, we contribute because we care about the people around us and want to make our community a little better.
I am especially grateful to Jeanne, Holly, Joanne, and Candy. Thank you for the time, patience, and care you have invested in us and in HA. You have looked after us like your own children—encouraging us to try, reminding us when necessary, and helping us put things right when our plans did not quite work out. Much of that work happens behind the scenes, but it has made our experiences possible. My HA journey would not have been the same without you.
Holly and the HA team have also shown me that we should not be afraid to share our thoughts. When we bring forward thoughtful, reasonable ideas and are willing to take responsibility for them, there are people ready to listen and support us. Having that space to suggest something new, develop our own initiatives, and learn along the way is something I truly value.
Through HA, I have expanded my network and connected with people across HSUHK and beyond. More importantly, these encounters have helped me discover my strengths, recognise my limitations, and understand how I relate to others. They have also given me opportunities to let people know who “Isaac Li” is—not simply as a name, but through my ideas, actions, and contributions.
As I move forward, I want to carry that spirit with me: to keep exploring, contribute sincerely, and support others as I have been supported. To younger HA buddies, I would say: speak up, get involved, and do not worry if your direction is not yet clear. You may discover where you belong through what you are willing to give.
Isaac Li
Business Analyst, Smart Workplace & Stores
Café de Coral Group
*Isaac has been featured in the first edition of HSUHK’s “Student Excellence Stories” launched by the Office of Vice President (Learning and Student Experience). Click here for more.
Reflecting on my university journey, joining the Honours Academy was undoubtedly the most transformative chapter of my time. As a non-local student, navigating a new academic and cultural landscape initially felt like a daunting leap. However, HA quickly became far more than an honours programme—it became my anchor and a vibrant, inclusive home that truly opened its arms to me.
Through HA, I bridged cultural boundaries, fully immersed myself in the local community and built deep friendships with my HA buddies. What began as a process of adaptation gradually evolved into a profound sense of belonging to the university and Hong Kong. HA provided an empowering platform where I could step out of my comfort zone, hone my soft skills, and cultivate essential personal attributes. Over these years, I have grown into a far more confident, reflective, and principled individual.
This incredible transformation would not have been possible without the unwavering support of HA. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to my HA coach, Dr Holly Chung, for her steady guidance and encouragement whenever I stepped into new endeavours. My heartfelt thanks also go to the HA Secretariat, our dedicated professors, and my fellow HA cohorts, whose trust, warmth, and collective support made our shared experiences so memorable.
To my younger HA cohorts: embrace your HA journey with an open heart and a curious mind. Be proactive in exploring unknown horizons and remain self-reflective as you navigate both triumphs and setbacks. True achievement extends beyond individual excellence: it is deeply rooted in empathy and a sense of responsibility. I encourage you to carry a heart that genuinely cares for others and society, using the knowledge, perspective, and resilience gained here to create meaningful, positive impacts in whatever paths you choose to pursue.
Thank you, HA, for reshaping my university years and giving me values and memories I will cherish forever.
Para Cheng
Postgraduate Student
Faculty of Arts, The University of Hong Kong
*Para has been featured in the first edition of HSUHK’s “Student Excellence Stories” launched by the Office of Vice President (Learning and Student Experience). Click here for more.
Awardees of Honours Academy Graduate Award 2025
Reflecting on my four-year journey with the Honours Academy (HA), it’s truly remarkable to see how far I’ve come. I participated in exchange programmes in Scandinavia, explored sustainability initiatives in Australia, performed at the prestigious Hong Kong City Hall, and competed for scholarships, to equipped myself with practical workplace skills and foundational business knowledge—this has been a transformative adventure. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of meeting extraordinary individuals and building valuable professional connections that continue to inspire and challenge me.
The path was far from easy. There were moments of doubt along the way—times when I questioned whether I was making the right choices, whether I was good enough, or whether my efforts were in vain. Yet, thanks to the unwavering support of HA, I found the courage to persevere. Even after experiencing setbacks and heartbreaks, I learned to rise again, stronger and more determined than before.
To all HA members, thank you. The conversations we’ve shared, the ideas we’ve exchanged, and even the healthy competition we’ve engaged in have enriched me deeply. Your encouragement and camaraderie have been a source of strength, pushing me to grow and stretch beyond my limits. Without you, I would not have had the faith to keep striving.
I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our HA Secretariat, Joanne and Candy. Your support extended far beyond administrative duties. Your encouragement and trust helped me believe in myself and gave me the confidence to pursue success with conviction.
And most importantly, I wish to offer my deepest thanks to my HA coach, Dr Holly Chung. You have been like a guiding light — nurturing, inspiring, and empowering me throughout this journey. Your mentorship has shaped not only my skills in hosting, event management, and career planning, but also my mindset and values. You taught me that “trying is winning”, and that lesson has become the foundation of my resilience and ambition. I would not be who I am today without your belief in me.
HA has given me the platform to elevate, to prove myself, and to achieve. Of course, success may not come easily. To my fellow HA juniors: do not expect a smooth ride without challenges. But trust me—if you keep trying, the rewards will be more than worthwhile. I hope each of you will discover your own breakthroughs and achieve meaningful results. Keep growing, and keep believing in the power of your journey.
Berrie Chim
Trade & Investment Adviser, Creative and Consumer
British Consulate-General Hong Kong
As I reflect on my HA journey, I am filled with gratitude for the transformative experiences and personal growth I have gained throughout these past years. My journey began with various leadership training programmes that have shaped both my professional aspirations and personal development. Engaging in group projects, site visits, and interactive activities not only enhanced my understanding of leadership principles but also fostered lasting friendships with my HA buddies. Together, we navigated challenges, shared knowledge, and celebrated our achievements.
The most impactful experience was the HA4001 Senior Research Project in my Year 4. This project pushed me to apply theoretical concepts in a practical setting, developing my critical thinking and collaboration skills. It was a rewarding challenge that deepened my understanding of my field and honed my research skills, all while working alongside my peers who shared the same passion for learning.
The Pre-Teens Financial Literacy Workshop Series holds a special place in my heart. It inspired me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Through this initiative, I truly came to understand the meaning of the saying, “It is more blessed to give than to receive”. Organising various activities aimed at enhancing financial literacy not only enriched my own knowledge but also allowed me to contribute to the community meaningfully. Witnessing the positive impact of our efforts on others was incredibly fulfilling and reaffirmed my commitment to service.
Throughout this journey, I have learned the importance of being brave and stepping outside my comfort zone. Whether leading group discussions, coordinating events, or engaging with community members, each experience helped me cultivate resilience, teamwork, and empathy. These are the qualities that I will carry with me in all areas of my life.
As I conclude this chapter of my life, I carry forward the insights and relationships I have built within the HA. I am excited to embrace new challenges and opportunities as I continue on my path, confident in the skills and values I have developed along the way.
Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey. I look forward to seeing where our paths may lead us in the future.
Yoyo Chung
Youth Worker
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
With nothing but just a questionable sense of direction, I began my first year at HSUHK. Then, with even more questions but a new sense of courage, I ventured into my HA journey since sophomore. Since then, I’ve dared myself: to get lost, to laugh at my own mistakes, and to keep moving forward.
My journey at HA has changed me into a brave and confident person, encouraging me to embrace new challenges and seize opportunities. In my heart, HA is my home—a place where I learn, make mistakes, and feel surrounded by love. Thank you, HA, for providing countless opportunities to discover myself and explore the world. From an exchange programme and a global internship to the Elite Summer Programme at the University of Oxford and the Global Immersion Programme in Australia, these experiences have broadened my perspective and taught me how to connect with diverse cultures and people from around the globe. They have also helped me clarify my future path and understand the person I aspire to be. HA seminars, HA4001, living in the Residential College, and other unique opportunities have enriched my university life, creating precious memories that are not easy to come by. Because of this, I am committed to dedicating my efforts to HA and contributing to this supportive community, which has been essential to my personal growth.
To Holly, my mentor and best friend, thank you for your unwavering support and guidance. Your belief in me has been a constant source of motivation, and your advice has helped me navigate both academic and personal challenges. Your office has felt like my shelter — a safe space where I can open my heart, be myself, and explore my thoughts.
To Jeanne, Esther, Sze, Willy, Bernard, and Janice, thank you for guiding all HA members and helping to build this wonderful family with full of love. To our HA secretariat team, especially Joanne and Candy, you have my deepest respect and appreciation. Thank you for addressing all our challenges, big and small, and acting as our strongest supporters.
Lastly, to all of my younger generations at HA, I now dare you:
– Feel free to get lost. Just remember that there is an exit; look up and look for the running-man pictogram. There’s always a way-out.
– Feel free to laugh at your own mistakes. Just remember not to make the same mistakes twice.
– Feel free to keep moving forward. Just remember: opportunities don’t knock twice.
And remember one more thing: This is Ocean and I will always have your back.
Ocean Ng
Postgraduate Student
Graduate School of International Relations, Ritsumeikan University, Japan
Awardees of Honours Academy Graduate Award 2024
Growing up, I always believed that seizing opportunities was the key to unlocking a brighter future. As one of Honours Academy’s (hereinafter “HA”) firstborn children, I felt a profound duty to act as a catalyst for the school and ourselves. To HA Board, I appreciate your vision and crucial insight. To our professional and academic fellows, and research supervisors, thank you for your commitment to our academic journey. Special thanks to our secretariat for your administrative support along the journey. I have encountered remarkable individuals, collaborated, encouraged one another, and had constructive debate. Yet, ultimately, we always unite to become more fuller versions of ourselves.
Honours Academy has always opened doors for me, allowing me to spread my wings and broaden my horizons. I revel in the spotlight and have a passion for hosting, which granted me the incredible opportunity to host the 10th-anniversary banquet for a thousand guests. My love for public speaking, nurtured by Dr Holly Chung’s encouragement, led me to participate in a speech competition where I proudly secured third place in the Hong Kong region. Our dedicated teachers have continually fostered my entrepreneurial spirit and participation in business competitions. Like a bird that never ceases to soar, I am eager to explore the world and understand diverse cultures. I care deeply about human rights and equality, so I was honoured to represent our school at the International University Scholars Conference. My interest in public policy led me to join the global immersion programme, further expanding my perspectives.
HA is an incubator for future global leaders, fostering self-discovery, character formation, and career path exploration. Its focus is on personal development and fostering relationships. HA seminars, covering everything from leadership to interpersonal skills, have provided a public sphere to unleash our possibilities. Finding your footing can be confusing at times. However, HA is not short on support —it provides feedback and listens to everyone’s voices. One of my most significant achievements has been my research project, guided by Dr Christine Choy and Dr Holly Chung. Their invaluable guidance and support have been instrumental in this accomplishment, marking a milestone in my university journey.
Honours Academy completes me. With all the knowledge and experiences I have accumulated, I am committed to giving back. Each year, I proudly represent our school in various outreach programmes. HA has shaped me into who I am today, and I wish to carry this honour and confidence forward, contributing to society. I have now started to advocate for gender equality and promote “Sport for All” in my workplace. As we move forward, I encourage each of you to reflect on your journey and consider how you will use your experiences and education to shape a better future for yourself and those around you.
Stella Yap
Operating Excellence Graduate Trainee, HSBC Global Services (HK) Ltd
Awardees of Honours Academy Graduate Award 2023
Time has flown, and I can’t believe that I graduated this year. Throughout my four years at university, I am immensely grateful to our school for providing unwavering support in my personal and academic growth. I extend my heartfelt appreciation of all the professors who have imparted their knowledge and constantly encouraged me.
Participating in the Honours Academy program has been the utmost privilege, and the three-year journeys have been truly remarkable. This program has honed my soft skills and presented me with countless opportunities for exploration. I owe much of my success to the support of our team heads and the HA staff.
I have been fortunate enough to be a part of numerous unforgettable moments. It has been a source of joy for me to engage in a wide range of activities, including a semester-long exchange program, an elite summer program, a global immersion program, a mentorship with my professional fellow, and even a newspaper interview. However, the experience that truly stands out as the most exceptional is my role as the organizer for both the community service team and the recreational team.
Through a well-structured program, I have experienced substantial growth and development in various aspects, including personal maturity, a heightened sense of social responsibility, and a deepened understanding of global citizenship.
In conclusion, I strongly encourage all current and future members of the HA family to adopt a proactive mindset. Embrace challenges without fear and cherish every opportunity that comes your way. Most importantly, be well-prepared.
Fanny Cheung
Tax Consultant, KPMG Tax Services Limited
This three-year journey has undeniably enriched my entire university experience at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong. I vividly recall when the HA room was initially bare, and we worked together to add decorations, transforming it into a warm and welcoming space. This coincided with the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which my 1st cohort fellows became the primary people I could interact with. From the early days of attending HA seminars, participating in soft meal workshops, celebrating the Chinese New Year with lively dances, learning how to host events from Dr Holly Chung to the present, the opportunities have expanded into something more significant and fruitful. I’m delighted to have witnessed this journey unfold and be a part of it. HA genuinely values our opinions, and my fellow students deeply care about HA. This is indeed the most beautiful experience.
I am profoundly grateful to have had three remarkable women, Esther, Holly and Jeanne, alongside us. Initially, I was quite reserved in approaching them, but over time, we got to know each other, and we became a close-knit family. It’s rare to form such deep connections in one’s lifetime, and I feel blessed to have met all these wonderful souls during this journey.
I would like to extend my gratitude to President, Professor Simon Ho, Professor Y. V. Hui and Dr Tom Fong for their unwavering support. They have consistently provided warmth and encouragement over the past three years, making them pillars of strength within our HA Family.
HA has given me the opportunity to learn and grow in various ways—hosting events, performing, writing academic papers, engaging in exchanges, and even initiating research projects. HA has made me realize that I am continually evolving in multiple dimensions as time progresses. This journey is truly invaluable to me.
To the young HA members, I encourage you to embrace this journey with enthusiasm and determination. While it may not always be as sweet as you expect in your initial experiences, I am confident that you will recognize the true value when you reflect on it in the future. Keep trying, gaining experience and overcoming challenges. Be kind, be grateful and remain humble throughout your HA journey.
Lauren Lin
Sustainability Executive (Business Strategy & Planning), AS Watson Industries
“Trying as much as you can, finding what you like and don’t like along the way, and then finding your way out after these three years.” As simple as it might seem, it’s very hard to achieve in reality as you have to balance your work, life and passion while preventing burnout at the same time. Trust me, keep pushing through the hard times, and your future self will thank you later.
Reflecting on my three-year HA journey, I found it one of the most transformative exposures, and I have made lifelong, meaningful friendships here that I treasure a lot. I still vividly remember being a timid person, not being outspoken enough. Having HA as a platform to meet friends with similar goals and start projects that I am most interested in, I got to know more about myself and fine-tune my aspirations.
Throughout these three years, I have engaged in various extracurricular activities, including internships, business competitions, community services projects, overseas learning experiences and so on. For internships, I worked in sectors like elderly care, maritime and blockchain, spanning startups and large corporations. Through these internship exposures, I experienced the differences between various job natures and team dynamics, getting a clearer and clearer picture of my career path. With my engagement in several businesses and entrepreneurial competitions, I got to hone my business acumen and presentation skills, preparing myself with the necessary skills for my career. Through joining and initiating community services projects via the HA platform, I have learned so much about different social issues, including the aging population, youth outreach and stray dogs, realizing that there is so much that I could contribute to society.
Last but not least, I’d like to take this precious opportunity to thank all the great people I have met in these three years. To the three Heads, Esther, Jeanne and Holly, thank you for your open-mindedness and guidance along the way; you were always there when we needed support! To my professional fellow, Mr Benjamin Tang, thank you for being such a genuine and kind mentor! Your stories and experiences shared during our catch-ups have inspired me so much! To my first boss, Ms Queenie Man (CEO of The Project Futurus), thank you for your patience and care during my first internship. Working at The Project Futurus has been a special and eye-opening experience for me. To all my friends in HA, thank you once again for being there during both the good and hard times.
Tom Tang
IT Consultant, TecRetail Limited