(refer to the photo album here for more highlights)
Date: 9 – 10 Sep 2023
A Journey of Self-Exploration and Team Building: HA Leadership Training Camp 2023
The stage was set for an unforgettable weekend, on 9 and 10 September 2023, as the HA 4th cohort students, alongside the guidance of senior HA students, and dedicated HA staff, eagerly prepared to embark on a transformative aventure. This journey would push their limits, challenge their perceptions, and forge lifelong bonds that would shape their HA experience and beyond.
Nestled within the embrace of a picturesqure location, the camp unfolded over two action-packed and joy-filled days, immersing the new and senior HA students in a blend of indoor and outdoor activities designed to unlock their leadership potential and foster their teamwork skills.
The first day burst into life with an ice-breaking session, where laughter and camaraderie filled the air. The students connected with their fellow HA peers, nurturing connections that would become the bedrock of their shared experiences over the coming days. As the barriers melted away, an atmosphere of trust and support permeated the campsite. In addition, to welcome the new fourth cohort, the HA Board Chairman, Professor YV Hui (Provost and Vice-President, Academic and Research), along with Dr Tom Fong (Vice-President, Organisational Development), specially made the effort to attend and brought gifts to cheer up all the attending HA students.
Group games, team challenges, and adventure-based activities tested their problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and resilience. The highlight of the day was the city-planning simulation where the HA students were tasked with building their ideal city while considering the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They had to make decisions that prompted them to consider factors such as renewable energy, waste management, access to education and healthcare, poverty alleviation, and gender equality. By the end of the activity, the HA members had gained a greater appreciation for the interconnectedness of the SDGs and how their actions as leaders can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.
As the sun set on each day, reflective discussions served as a catalst for personal growth and collective introspection. Guided by experiened trainers, the HA students delved into the intricacies of effective leadership, practising active listening, and drawing inspiration from one another’s life stories and insights.
As the first-ever residential camp in the HA’s history, all of the HA brothers and sisters seized every moment to bond over shared experiences and stories, forging longlong friendships that would extend far beyond the confines of the campsite. The night was filled with laughter, deep conversations, and a sense of belonging that only a shared journey can bring.
The dawn of the second day brought forth renewed energy and determination. It commenced with a symbolic trust circle, where students formed a human bond, embracing vulnerability and trust as they leaned on one another for support. This powerful exercise set the tone for the day, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and building strong foundations within the HA family.
Rock climbing, a cherished ritual of the HA Leadership Training Camp, took on a deeper symbolism. It became a testament to the indomitable spirit of HA students, reflecting their unwavering resolve to conquer every mountain, both figuratively and literally. The walls echoed with cheers and encouragement while our students overcame our fears and scaled new heights side by side.
As the camp drew to a close, the students gathered one last time, their hearts brimming with gratitude for the transformative experiences they had shared. They emerged from the camp stronger, more self-aware, and equipped with invaluable leadership skills. The lessons they had learned, the friendships they had forged, and the memories they had created would forever shape their journey as HA students and future leaders.
As the HA students returned to their daily lives, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose, a passion for growth, and the unwavering belief that they had the power to make a difference.
Provost and Vice-President (Academic and Research) Professor Y V Hui, and Vice-President (Organisational Development) Dr Tom Fong visited the camp and gave encouragement to the new HA student members.
HA students gain leadership competence as future leaders through various team building activities.