Joey

Joey demonstrated a significant contribution to the democratic movement of Hong Kong. She also showed a high level of maturity and intellect and we believe she will continue to grow and develop into a successful professional in the United States.

Mic

Mic demonstrated a high level of compassion for nursing, especially in the area of elderly nursing home care, which will fill a big demand in the US for nursing professionals. His goals are to be the change to improve the elderly nursing experience and to be a mentor who can help more Hong Kong students get to know the field of nursing.

Ivanka (Undergraduate category) :

Ivanka is a research and advocacy fellow at the Athenai Institute, advocating for divestment from the Chinese Community Party to U.S. institutions and the removal of the CCP’s influence on academic freedom. As a founding member of the Society of Asian Liberty at Stony Brooke University and a member of Students For Hong Kong, Ivanka is actively engaged in campus advocacy for Hong Kong. She also volunteers in Hong Kong community events such as documentary screenings in New York.

Ivanka has demonstrated significant financial need and dedication to contribute to the Hong Kong community and the future of Hong Kong.

Sanho (Graduate category):

Sanho is currently a Ph.D. candidate in political science at the University of Arizona, USA. He is also the co-founder and a contributing writer of Flow HK, the first diasporic Hong Kongers magazine.

After graduating with his Bachelor of Social Sciences degree from Hong Kong Baptist University in 2015 and obtaining his Master of International Relations degree at Australian National University in 2016, Sanho worked as a research assistant for multiple scholars and researchers on politics and identity in Hong Kong. In 2019, he left for the USA to pursue his doctoral degree in political science. Chung is currently working on research projects concerning democracy and autocracy in East Asia, as well as the politics of Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Sanho has demonstrated his financial need, as well as his passion, capability, and vision to continue to raise attention to Hong Kong in an intellectual way. He is also involved in Hongkonger community work as the President of the Hong Kong Student Association at his current school.

Sanho’s latest publications include journal articles “‘Because Hongkongers Should Support Hong Kong’: Entanglement of National Identity, Political Ideology and Football Fandom in Hong Kong”(Forthcoming) in the Journal of Sport and Social Issues, “Explaining Localism in Post-handover Hong Kong: An Eventful Approach” (Yuen, Samson, & Chung, Sanho, 2018) on China Perspectives and an op-ed article titled “The Pro-Democrats’ Landslide Victory in Hong Kong Is Just the Beginning” (2019) on The Diplomat.

Esther Lau (Undergraduate):

Currently in her first year at Barnard College of Columbia University, Esther is pursuing studies in Political Science and Urban Studies with concentrations in American Politics and Economics. Through the intersection of these two fields, she aspires to focus on how policy can drive positive change for low-income communities of color. Moreover, the depth and breadth of the curriculum at Barnard allows her to concentrate on areas of geography like Hong Kong, which she considers a collective microcosm of urban space and government and also her home.

Beyond the classroom, Esther is a dedicated advocate for issues related to poverty and basic needs. As the Executive Director of What We All Deserve, a youth-led economic justice advocacy group, she introduced and co-sponsored CA's SB 260, the Menstrual Equity Act of 2023. This proposed legislation aims to add $20 in monthly cash aid for menstruating CalWORKs recipients. Through her efforts, she garnered robust legislative and organizational support from the CA Legislative Women's Caucus and CA Senate Democrats, as well as organizations such as ACLU, NARAL, and NAACP. Notably, Esther's work in legislative advocacy has been featured in news publications including NPR, KQED, and CalMatters.

Looking ahead, Esther is excited to continue her journey of growth as both a student and an advocate with the support of the HKPN Scholarship. Regardless of how much time she spends overseas, Hong Kong will always be home to her. She eagerly anticipates harnessing the skills she's acquired to further her impact both in the United States and at home.

「你好！ 我叫Esther Lau, 我很感激能獲得2023 HKPN獎學金。 我在香港出生和度過了我一生中最豐富成長的幾年，我很榮幸能為香港社群做出貢獻的潛力。

目前，我在哥倫比亞大學巴納德學院讀一年級，在這𥚃我學習政治學和城市研究。在課堂外，我是圍繞貧困和基本需求問題的忠實倡導者。 我倡議並共同協助了CA（加州）的SB 260法案，該法案將為有月經的CalWORKs接受者增加每月20美元的現金援助。 因我在倡議立法方面的表現，曾被新聞報導在NPR和KQED等媒體上。

展望未來，我很高興能在HKPN獎學金的幫助下繼續我作為學生和倡導者的成長之旅。 無論我在海外呆了多久，香港都將永遠是我的家，我期待地想利用我學到的知識來進一步發揮我對美國和我的家的影響。」

Amelia Chan (Undergraduate):

Amelia Chan, a second-year animation student at Sheridan College, embarked on her international student journey at the age of 12 in 2016. Having studied in Canada ever since, she maintains a profound love for Hong Kong's culture, cherishing the city's heartwarming welcome upon her return.

Throughout her upbringing, Amelia drew inspiration from animated films by directors, nurturing a dream to become an animator capable of bringing her vivid imagination to life. Her passion extends to creating films and art that resonate with people, aiming to connect Hongkongers and enhance the presence of the Hong Kong community. She is also interested in utilizing technology and games to assist those in need.

During her two years at Sheridan Animations, Amelia discovered her love for visual development and layout backgrounds. Immersing herself in research about diverse cultures, she integrates these influences into her artwork, hoping to capture the unique beauty in everything.

Behind the scenes in the world of films and animations, Amelia actively contributes to the animation community. She enjoys connecting with peers, offering assistance, and leveraging her expertise to aid others interested in animation. As an executive at the Women in Animation Club at Sheridan, she works towards fostering visibility and support for female animators, creating an environment where mutual learning and assistance flourish.

「大家好！我名字叫Amelia。我在加拿大安省就讀Sheridan 學院的動畫專業二年級學生。我從 12 歲（2016年）便開始了我的國際學生之旅，由小學到現在一直努力學習中。儘管我在這裡待了一段時間，我仍然熱愛香港文化，我明白這個溫暖的城市隨時歡迎我學成歸來。由於在我成長的過程中很喜歡想像和構思，並且一直對傑出導演創作的動畫電影著迷。我夢想會成為一名動畫師，讓我的想像力成為現實。我熱衷於製作可以聯繫人們和產生共鳴的電影和藝術作品。

在Sheridan 學院的動畫專業課程的這兩年裡，我意識到了我對環境設計和動畫初稿的熱愛。我研究和了解不同的文化，並將它們融入我的藝術作品中。我喜歡在電影和動畫的幕後工作，透過創作藝術，我可以捕捉一切的美。

我會在動畫層面與動畫愛好者建立聯繫並透過輔導和意見，吸取來幫助來提升技術運用，也會幫助對Sheridan 學院動畫感興趣的人進入學院。我也是Sheridan 學院女性動畫學會的高階主管，幫助女性動畫師得到被關注和傾聽意見，彼此互相幫助和學習，建立關係。

任何能幫助我實現夢想的支持也不勝感激。感謝HKPN，我得到了這個機會，使我的目標又更近了一步。」

Loft (Graduate):

Loft is studying for a Master of Journalism in Canada. He had studied journalism and cultural studies in Hong Kong and worked as a freelance journalist. His research interests cover Hong Kong's diaspora media, popular culture, and identity. His works can be found in Hong Kong’s online media, and co-authored a few books.

Loft 目前正在加拿大修讀傳理系碩士，此前在香港修讀新聞及文化研究，並為自由身記者，現時研究香港離散媒體、流行文化及身分認同。其作品散見於香港網上媒體，及合著數本書籍。

Kristy Chow

HKPN 獎學金委員會好榮幸宣布Kristy Chow成為三位2024獎學金計劃嘅獲獎者之一，以表揚佢對環境倡議、教育同社區服務嘅奉獻。

“”我現時正在加拿大修讀特殊教育，曾在香港非政府組織從事倡議工作。深信教育與倡議的本質相似，旨在改變人心。

修讀特殊教育，是想了解社會弱勢，或被邊緣化的群體，從中找到自己貢獻的崗位。在學期間，學習有關加拿大教育體制的歷史與共融社會的政策方針，更明白面對不公時，公民社會發聲的重要性。對我來說，融合教育不只是在班房的教育模式，而是一種由下而上，對抗歧視、不公義、資源分配不均的倡議，是建立共融社會的重要一環。

感謝HKPN的獎學金，讓我繼續進修，期望學有所成後，協助初到埗加拿大、家中有特殊學習需要的適齡學童，盡快適應新生活，致力為共融社會而努力。””

Kristy 嘅多元化背景，包括喺非政府組織同教育機構嘅經驗，證明佢對社會作出有意義嘅改變，選舉委員會對佢嘅清晰思維、強烈嘅信念，同埋佢喺加拿大充滿挑戰同動態嘅環境中持續努力, 同重新界定佢嘅職業生涯嘅努力，特別印象深刻。

喺追求碩士學位、平衡工作同埋為持續嘅社區計劃作出貢獻嘅同時，Kristy已經清楚地展現出重大嘅財務需要，委員會好高興可以支持佢嘅旅程，並透過授予佢呢個獎學金嚟肯定佢嘅傑出成就。我哋恭喜Kristy嘅成就，並祝願佢學業同未來嘅事業繼續順利。

We are pleased to announce that Kristy Chow has been awarded one of 2024 scholarships in recognition of her exceptional dedication to environmental advocacy, education, and community service.

“”I am studying special education in Canada, following my advocacy work with a non-governmental organization in Hong Kong. I firmly believe that the essence of both education and advocacy is to transform perspectives.

My pursuit of special education stems from a desire to understand those who are socially disadvantaged or marginalized and to identify areas where I can make a meaningful contribution. Throughout my academic journey, I have gained insights into the history of the Canadian educational system and the policies that foster an inclusive society, thereby deepening my understanding of the vital role of civic engagement in addressing injustices. For me, inclusive education is not simply a classroom methodology but a bottom-up movement that challenges discrimination, injustice, and the unequal distribution of resources. It is a crucial component in the development of an inclusive society.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to HKPN for the scholarship that allowed me to continue my studies. Upon completing my education, I aim to assist newly arrived children with special educational needs in Canada adapt to their new lives and dedicate my efforts to fostering an inclusive society. “”

Kristy’s diverse background, including experience with NGOs and educational institutions, has been a testament to her commitment to making meaningful societal changes. The selection committee was particularly impressed with her clarity of thought, strong convictions, and ongoing efforts to navigate and redefine her career path in Canada's challenging and dynamic environment.

While pursuing her master's degree, balancing work, and contributing to ongoing community initiatives, Kristy has clearly demonstrated significant financial need. The committee is proud to support her journey and affirm her remarkable achievements by awarding this scholarship. We congratulate Kristy Chow for her outstanding accomplishments and wish her continued success in her studies and future endeavors.

Luke Chu

HKPN 獎學金委員會好榮幸宣布Luke Chu 成為三位2024獎學金計劃獲獎者之一。

“”大家好，我叫Luke，目前在加拿大就讀十二年級，九月將升讀大學，主修心理學。加拿大心理學家 Dr. Gabor Maté是燃起我對心理學興趣的契機，他強調未解決的心理創傷影響深遠，帶來的心理疾患和濫藥行為，造成很多社會問題。我認同他的看法：責怪容易，但若要從根本解決社會問題，必須找出癥結，幫助有需要的人度過難關。我希望從心理學學懂更多，未來以研究員的身份深入研究，為社會出一分力。

最後，我要感謝籌備這個獎學金的HKPN和每一位捐款的香港人。這筆獎學金對我來說別具意義——除了是鼓勵，我還視它為「目標」。我認為，幫助素未謀面卻有相同價值觀的人，是崇高的行為。我們都是熱愛香港，好公義，追求平等和自由的人。我希望自己未來也能回饋社區，延續這份精神。””

Luke 喺適應新嘅生活同教育制度方面面對咗重大嘅挑戰，但係佢嘅毅力同韌力令到委員會好有印象。作為一個新移民加拿大嘅高中生， Luke 遇到一個完全唔同嘅課程同學習環境，儘管有呢啲挑戰，佢仍然保持出色嘅學業成績，並且提早獲得加拿大其中一間頂尖大學入學資格。

除咗佢嘅學術成就之外， Luke 亦都透過唔同嘅義工服務積極為佢嘅本地社區作出貢獻。佢對學習嘅奉獻精神, 同佢自我鞭策去追求唔同科目嘅知識，更加展現咗佢嘅非凡性格同決心。

委員會認識到 Luke 嘅財政困難同教育成本上升，好高興向佢提供呢個獎學金作支持。我哋相信呢個認可係佢嘅能力、成就同潛力嘅證明。

The HKPN Scholarship Committee is proud to announce Luke Chu as one of the recipients of 2024 scholarship program.

“”I am currently a grade 12 student in Canada, I plan to study psychology in university. Inspired by Canadian psychologist Dr. Gabor Maté, who emphasizes how unresolved trauma can lead to addiction and mental illnesses, Luke believes that we should not blame the disadvantaged people for ”causing” social problems such as homelessness issues and drug issues. Instead, we should focus on how to support them in overcoming challenges, noting that they are also victims themselves. By studying psychology, Luke hopes that one day, he can become a researcher and take part in making our society a better place. 

I would like to thank HKPN and every HongKonger who donated to this scholarship. This scholarship means a lot to me, not only because of the financial aid, but also because it is made possible by HongKongers. I admire how we HongKongers support each other in the pursuit of freedom and equality. I hope that one day he can also be a giver and pass on this spirit.””

Luke has faced significant challenges in adapting to a new life and education system, yet his perseverance and resilience have truly impressed the committee. As a high school student in Canada, Luke encountered a completely different curriculum and learning environment. Despite these challenges, he has maintained outstanding academic performance and earned early admission to one of Canada’s top universities.

In addition to his academic accomplishments, Luke has actively contributed to his local communities through various volunteer services. His dedication to learning and his self-driven pursuit of knowledge in various subjects further demonstrate his exceptional character and determination.

Recognizing Luke’s financial hardship and the rising costs of education, the committee is pleased to offer him this scholarship as a token of support. We believe that this recognition is a testament to his abilities, achievements, and potential.

Charlene Li

HKPN 獎學金委員會好榮幸宣布Charlene Li成為""三位2024獎學金計劃獲獎者之一。

“”大家好！我叫 Charlene，就讀於佛羅里達州大學醫療科學系。我很榮幸成為HKPN 2024獎學金其中一名得獎者！我是美藉香港人，在美國加州三藩市灣區的奧克蘭出生和長大。幸運地每年暑假也可以回港認識香港獨特的文化及練習我的廣東話。雖然每一年留在香港的時間不多，但是我非常珍惜在香港的時間。我很喜愛香港的中西文化、生活環境和急速的節奏步伐。

從小看到父親的科學研究對病人有著正面的影響，令我對追求醫學訓練的理想更殷切。我讀高中時，我在學校創立了首個亞裔學生協會，透過舉辦活動增加美國同學們對亞洲文化和歷史的認識。與此同時，我帶領協會跟當地的醫院合作，舉辦了一個名為“Cranes for Cancer”的項目。得到會員和同學的積極參與，我們摺了數百隻紙鶴，送給超過兩百名醫護人員和病人。通過這個項目，令我發現我非常喜歡跟醫學和亞洲文化有關的社會服務。於是我今年在大學裏創立了Cranes for Cancer Association（CCA），希望繼續鼓勵文化交流、增加大眾對癌症認識以及為癌症病患和其家人送出關懷和祝福。

我非常感激得到 HKPN 獎學金的幫助，令我可以在學術和文化服務上繼續發展，為社會作出貢獻。””

作為一個一年級嘅醫學預科學生， Charlene 喺追求醫學生涯同埋對社區服務嘅承諾方面已經展現出非凡嘅成熟度同決心，喺佢嘅高中生涯同繼續進入大學嘅過程中，佢一直喺學業上表現出色，並且積極參與課外活動，同時亦主動喺佢嘅學校創造同加強亞洲文化嘅存在，同時亦帶領佢喺各種同癌症有關嘅特別項目中進行研究，以提高佢對癌症嘅認識同埋研究。

委員會對 Charlene 嘅非凡奉獻精神同潛力深深印象深刻，成為醫療專業人士嘅旅程充滿挑戰同要求，但係 Charlene 已經展現出成功所需嘅韌性、決心同堅實嘅基礎，佢同香港嘅緊密關係，加上佢嘅傑出貢獻，無疑會令香港嘅外籍社群喺未來更加豐富。

The HKPN Scholarship Committee is proud to announce Charlene Li as one of the recipients of 2024 scholarship program.

""I am a first year Pre-Professional Health Science major on the pre-health track at the University of Florida (UF). Inspired by my father’s heartwarming impact on his patients at his research laboratory, I became determined at an early age to have that same positive impact on others by pursuing medicine.

As a first-generation Hong Kong-American, I have always maintained a strong connection to my cultural roots, despite growing up in Oakland, CA, far from Hong Kong. Fluent in four languages, including Cantonese, I also enjoy playing the guzheng and watching Cantonese dramas. After moving to South Florida in her junior year of high school, I founded the first Asian-interest club and initiated the ‘Cranes for Cancer’ project. This project, where club members folded hundreds of origami cranes to be sent to healthcare workers and patients as a symbol of prosperity, involved collaboration with local hospitals and reached over 200 medical professionals and patients in the area.

My commitment to cultural community service inspired me to establish the Cranes for Cancer Association at my university, a student organization dedicated to fostering cross-cultural exchange and raising cancer awareness in Florida. I am looking forward to continuing my educational journey and cultural service work with the support of the HKPN 2024 scholarship.""

As a first-year pre-med student, Charlene has demonstrated remarkable maturity and determination in pursuing a medical career and her commitment to community service. Throughout high school and college, she has consistently excelled academically and actively engaged in extracurricular activities. Charlene took the initiative to find and strengthen the presence of Asian culture at her school while spearheading special projects to raise awareness about cultural issues and cancer. She has further enriched her experience by volunteering in various medically-related research and studies.

The committee is deeply impressed by Charlene’s extraordinary dedication and potential. The journey to becoming a medical professional is challenging and demanding, yet Charlene has already shown the resilience, determination, and solid foundation necessary to succeed. Her strong ties to Hong Kong and her remarkable contributions will undoubtedly enrich the Hong Kong diaspora community in the future.