Congratulations to our four HKU Alumni and a current HKU student who have been recognised in this year’s Prestige 40 Under 40 List! Join us in celebrating these visionaries who embody excellence, creativity, and resilience.
Alison Chan (BA 2014)
Culinary Illusionist
Dear Harley Confectionery & Design
“[Chan’s] passion project, Dear Harley Confectionery & Design, introduced the city to ‘illusionist cakes’, hyper-realistic creations that have garnered millions of views on platforms such as 9GAG and LADBIBLE, as well as earning her invitation to host Asia’s first illusion cake exhibition at K11 MUSEA. … [Her] journey began as a one-woman show that’s blossomed into a thriving business with a dedicated team.”
Anqi Li (Current PhD Candidate)
Academic & Independent Art Curator
“‘The fact that my research allows me to expand my understanding of the world is what I love most about being an academic.’ … Arriving in Hong Kong piqued her curiosity about the cultural, economic, societal and political incentives behind an establishment such as M+ … Professionally, Li’s biggest highlight of the past year was curating Supper Club during Art Week in March … and was extremely well received for its fresh perspective on showcasing art.”
Choi Ming Fai (BEng(CivE) Alumnus)
Michelin Young Chef Awardee
摩 Mora
“Choi Ming-Fai’s culinary journey didn’t begin until he was studying civil engineering at the University of Hong Kong, when he also began exploring the world. … ‘Achieving a Michelin start together with Mora and also Michelin’s Young Chef Award are among my proudest accomplishments this year,’ Choi tells us. ‘Additionally, being able to mentor and inspire younger chefs in my team is something I take great pride in. I’m still learning everyday myself and this is a never-ending process.’”
Elaine Chiu (BA 2018)
Artist
“The Yau Tsim Mong-raised contemporary artist has become one of the buzziest names in art through her paintings and sketches depicting Hong Kong cityscapes and its urban identity. Through her work, she also advocates for the preservation of the city’s heritage as it undergoes rapid urban development. ‘It’s my innate desire to connect and influence people through visual means, aesthetics and good values.’”
Henry Tse (LLM(HR) Alumnus)
Activist | Founder of Transgender Equality HK
“Transgender activist Henry Tse made world headlines when he received a new Hong Kong identity card, after he successfully updated its gender marker following a seven-year legal battle. The experience inspired him to become an activist and found the NGO Transgender Equality Hong Kong, providing support to others in a similar situation. ‘Human-rights work is a bit like running a marathon — it takes true grit and determination in order to achieve results, and success isn’t necessarily guaranteed, … There’s no way you can complete it without putting in the work. However, once you overcome all the pain and suffering, finally cross the finish line and see you’ve made a real difference in people’s lives, it’s very rewarding.’”