Boosting Future Leaders: HKU Business Student Societies Kickstart 2025-26 with a Dynamic Leadership Bootcamp!
Student associations are a vital channel for developing and empowering undergraduate leaders within our community. With strong links to the business and government sectors, the innovative campaigns driven by each association enrich our students’ university experience both personally and professionally. Each January, a new generation of student leaders steps into Executive Committee roles for the coming session. To equip them for a smooth and rewarding year ahead, the UG Student Enrichment Team hosted a full‑day Leadership Bootcamp on 31 January 2026 at HKU iCube for over 40 student leaders across three faculty‑affiliated associations—BEA, BA and EFS. This vibrant gathering set the stage for an impactful 2025–26 academic year.
Professor Winnie Leung, Assistant Dean (Undergraduate), opened the Bootcamp by inspiring all student leaders with the “3Cs”: Compassion (be empathetic and supportive), Compliance (govern your actions by adhering to regulations), and Caution (manage risks when executing campaigns). Professor Leung also encouraged each Executive Committee to embrace their term through the principle “L.E.A.D.”—Leadership development; be Ethical; adopt a high level of Assurance; and be Diligent—working hard in their society responsibilities while maintaining strong academic performance.
The day continued in an interactive format. Rather than a traditional lecture, a mix of 2024–25 and 2025–26 Executive Committee members from various societies took centre stage, transforming essential guidelines into engaging presentations. Through peer interaction, students gained a clear understanding of Faculty expectations and the key areas addressed in the Faculty Guidelines and Regulations for all Student Associations. Momentum built as each society presented its ambitious Annual Plan for 2025–26, followed by dynamic Q&A sessions. This provided an excellent opportunity for new committee members to showcase their vision, gather feedback, and build excitement for the year ahead. The collaborative spirit was truly inspiring, reflecting the strong support system and shared goals among all student associations and the HKU Business School.
In the afternoon, a cross‑society workshop—“Building Team Excellence: Strengthening Bonds through Play and Connection”—was facilitated by trainer Ms Samantha Pei. The workshop utilised hands‑on activities with LEGO bricks, cards, and collaborative exercises to develop essential soft skills including gratitude, effective communication, empathy, creative problem‑solving, and team role‑play. Key objectives included fostering meaningful connections; cultivating communication and collaboration; equipping students with strategies for self-management and conflict resolution; and nurturing an inclusive atmosphere that enhances individual and team development. The programme emphasised discovering each participant’s role within the HKU community and creating collective impact through leadership, ultimately strengthening team excellence and organisational wellbeing.
Overall, the Bootcamp was more than a training session: it was a powerful testament to the vibrant community, robust leadership development, and unwavering support that define HKU Business School. We look forward to an action‑packed 2025–26, as these bright minds are fully charged and ready to make their mark.
