Driven by a desire to overcome financial hurdles and discover his potential, Daniel Lee applied for the HSBC Vocational Education Scholarship. What began as a practical step to support his studies soon evolved into a transformative journey of self-discovery, leadership, and creating social impact.
Find out how Daniel, currently on the Hub for the Future Leadership Committee (a group of leaders for our community of past and present HSBC Scholars), is actively involved in community engagements and exploring ways to become an impactful leader.
When you applied for the scholarship, what did you set out to achieve? Have the goals and objectives changed after you received the scholarship?
When I first applied for the scholarship, my primary goal was practical: I wanted to ease the financial burden of pursuing my associate degree and, eventually, my university degree. In 2021, my family’s income was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, making financial support a necessity for my education.
However, after becoming an HSBC Scholar, my perspective shifted. I realized that the scholarship was more than just financial aid; it was an open door to opportunities for personal and professional growth. Now, my goal is to maximize every opportunity as a scholar, learning as much as possible to identify my strengths so I can contribute meaningfully to society.
Reflecting on your time as an HSBC Scholar, what was your greatest learning experience that contributed to your personal or professional growth?
My greatest learning experience has been the opportunity to connect with the Hub for the Future community — a group of some of the brightest young minds in Hong Kong. Before receiving the scholarship, I was primarily focused on my textbooks and didn’t engage much in extracurricular or professional activities. Interacting with fellow scholars taught me that academic success is only one part of a fulfilling journey. Their encouragement pushed me to explore new horizons and step out of my comfort zone, which has been instrumental in my personal growth and professional outlook.
What is the most memorable part of your journey as an HSBC Scholar? Was there a specific event, interaction, or achievement that stands out to you?
The most memorable moments of my journey are those where I stepped up to engage with others. Serving as the fireside chat MC for the 2024 Scholars Day, hosting games at the mentoring program finale, and even inviting passersby to join the Mums@Play market outside the Hive are experiences I will never forget. Each of these moments required me to be brave and communicative. These hands-on roles significantly built my confidence and presentation skills, which are assets I will carry forward into my future career.
What support have you received through the HSBC Scholarship Program, and how has this assisted you in reaching your professional goals?
I have received immense support and trust from the managers at both The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG) and Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI), the past and current secretariat for the HSBC Scholarship Scheme.
Being given the responsibility to help manage major events enhanced my confidence and validated my potential. While I am still refining my specific professional path, acting as a helper at Hub events has allowed me to be recognized by other scholars. This has opened up countless opportunities to communicate with and learn from future leaders, helping me broaden my horizons and adopt the strategic thinking necessary for my career development.
In what ways do you believe the HSBC Scholarship has equipped you to make a positive impact in your community?
The annual HSBC Scholars Day is a powerful reminder of the impact young people can have. Inspired by the resilience and positivity of the Hub community, I felt a strong urge to give back. In 2022, I provided 80 hours of free tutoring to underprivileged children. During those sessions, I saw my younger self – someone searching for direction. My goal was to offer them the same guidance and encouragement I received. Today, I continue to focus on empowering younger students who are still finding their way, helping them navigate their paths with a positive mindset.
What current volunteer or social impact initiatives are you involved in, and how do they align with the values you embrace as an HSBC Scholar?
I primarily assist with school activities, serving as the MC for various events, and acting as a mentor for freshmen, guiding them through their university experience concerning internships and studies. Additionally, I aim to be a positive and encouraging presence for those in need. Having received support from HSBC both financially and in terms of personal development, I aspire to give back to the next generation of youth in a similar manner whenever I can.
How do you intend to apply the lessons and skills you’ve gained as an HSBC Scholar to build a more sustainable and resilient society for Hong Kong?
As I embark on my professional journey, I am committed to looking beyond financial performance to maintain sustainable social impact in my decision-making, through understanding the strength of different people, treating them with respect and kindness no matter their role, and encouraging collaboration and synergies between them.
Inspired by Hub alumni before me, I hope to initiate positive changes personally and encourage a culture of goodwill. Together, we can make meaningful contributions that ensure a brighter, more inclusive future for Hong Kong.
