Friday, 16 October 2026The Hong Kong Student Service Leaders Award (HKSSLA) organised by Dream Compassioneers honours outstanding youth dedicated to community impact. The initiative empowers student leaders to collaborate with professionals and execute independent service projects that inspire volunteerism across society. Among this year’s exceptional awardees is Yody Chan, a graduate of our 2026 cohort, whose journey showcases the transformative power of youth-led service.
Yody’s commitment to community engagement developed during her secondary school years. Serving as Head Prefect and Chairperson of the English Society, she learned to lead with empathy and mobilise her peers effectively. As chairperson of the Operation Santa Claus Organising Committee, she led fundraising campaigns for Operation Santa Claus (OSC). By introducing creative initiatives, such as Christmas bazaars and teacher-student cosplay activities, she proved how Gen Z perspectives can bring fresh, engaging energy to traditional volunteerism.
As a finalist of the 4th HKSSLA, Yody joined team ‘Busters’ to launch a community initiative focused on mental health awareness. The team hosted mindfulness art and craft workshops, including thank-you card creation and fluid paint-stirring, designed specifically for senior citizens. The therapeutic sessions encouraged elderly participants to practise mindfulness, express themselves, and celebrate their intrinsic self-worth.
During a workshop at a care home, Yody guided a resident with mobility challenges in creating a mosaic coaster. Though the resident initially doubted her ability, step-by-step encouragement enabled her to complete a unique, colourful piece. For Yody, this heartwarming moment captured the core mission of service: not merely hosting activities, but empowering individuals to discover strengths they didn’t realise they possessed.
Yody is now pursuing her university studies in Sociology. By combining her academic training with hands-on leadership experience, she remains committed to driving meaningful social change and putting the principle of ‘helping others help themselves’ into lifelong practice.
Congratulations, Yody! You are a deserving winner of the Award and a true inspiration to all Shungtakians.