Shooting for the stars
- The awards recognise secondary school students in Hong Kong with “high moral standards for their academic, extracurricular and community service achievements
- For the 2022-23 edition, a total of 432 applications from more than 130 schools in Hong Kong were received, from which 40 finalists were shortlisted
Some students are book smart, while others are street smart. And then, there are the students who have it all, as proven by the Hong Kong Outstanding Students Awards (HKOSAs).
Created by the Lion & Globe Educational Trust and organised by the Youth Arch Foundation since 2010, the awards recognise secondary school students in Hong Kong with “high moral standards for their academic, extracurricular and community service achievements”.
Since their inception in 1985 – initially as the Hong Kong Outstanding Female Students Award, which only accepted female applicants – the HKOSAs have recognised more than 1,300 students for their outstanding achievements, while providing opportunities for personal development and self-discovery through various enrichment programmes.
The application process is no cake walk though, and to be in the running for an HKOSA, students must go through a rigorous selection process that involves not just an online application, but also a written test, overnight assessment camp, finalists’ sharing session and final interview. What are the judges looking for? Exceptional personal qualities, character and a passion for serving the community – plus leadership skills and the ability to act as a positive role model.
All finalists receive a certificate and an invitation to become a lifetime fellow of the Hong Kong Outstanding Students’ Association, giving them access to the awardee community network. Winners get all that plus a trophy, added exposure and a sponsored trip overseas – not to mention bragging rights for life.
If there’s one thing the HKOSAs prove, it’s that there is no shortage of outstanding students in Hong Kong. All 10 winners have demonstrated strong leadership skills, grit, determination, a passion for learning, and the desire to give back to the community – and they now share a lifelong bond as HKOSA fellows.
