EdUHK Alumni and Lecturer Honoured with 2025 ‘Ten Outstanding Young Persons’ and ‘Hong Kong Professional Elite Ladies’ Awards
The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) proudly celebrates a double triumph as two eminent alumni and a faculty member receive prestigious accolades in 2025. Mr Chan Yan-kit, Head Coach of the Hong Kong Para Badminton Team, and Mr Gordon Lee Chun-lok, a renowned young harmonica virtuoso, have been named among the ‘Ten Outstanding Young Persons’ of the year. Meanwhile, Dr Jin Mengyao, Co-Director of the Centre for Classical Chinese Education and lecturer in the Department of Chinese Language Studies, has been recognised as one of the ‘Hong Kong Professional Elite Ladies’.
These honours not only mark exceptional personal achievements but also underscore EdUHK’s impact across diverse domains, including culture and arts, sports education, and women’s leadership.
Mr Chan Yan-kit: From Athlete to Inspirational Coach
Driven by a childhood dream of Olympic glory, Mr Chan devoted 14 years to professional badminton, reaching a career-high world ranking of ninth in men’s singles in 2009. Although injury prevented him from competing in the Olympics, he transformed adversity into growth.
After retiring in 2016, Mr Chan pursued further education and enrolled in EdUHK’s Bachelor of Health Education (Honours) programme in 2021. As Head Coach of the Hong Kong Para Badminton Team, he led the squad to a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games—realising his Olympic dream in a new role. In recognition of his contributions to sports and disability advocacy, he was awarded the Medal of Honour by the HKSAR Government in July.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Mr Chan shared, “After retiring, I’d always wanted to enhance my skills and knowledge. EdUHK’s support helped me balance my studies and coaching duties, even while travelling for competitions.” He added that EdUHK’s teachers and classmates always assisted him with various academic needs.
Mr Gordon Lee Chun-lok: Harmonising Tradition and Innovation
Mr Lee’s musical journey began at age six with the harmonica, his exceptional talent has earned him numerous competition titles. Determined to refine his craft, he taught harmonica to fund overseas training with masters in Europe and the U.S. Discovering the harmonica’s roots in the traditional Chinese sheng, he integrated its techniques with qigong breathing, creating a distinctive performance style. His invention of the dual-resonance harmonica further expanded the instrument’s orchestral potential.
A 2014 graduate of EdUHK (then The Hong Kong Institute of Education) Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Creative Arts and Culture (Music), Mr Lee set his sights on becoming the world’s best harmonica player—an ambition he fulfilled by winning the 8th World Harmonica Competition in 2017. He later founded the Hong Kong Harmonica Academy to nurture young musicians. In 2024, he received the Music Advocacy Award from the International Society for Music Education for his contributions to music education and cultural exchange through the Academy.
“I really appreciate the interdisciplinary approach offered by the programme, which blends various art forms and skills with knowledge in areas such as cultural literacy and arts management—unlike traditional music courses that usually focus on a single art form or instrument. This holistic approach inspired me to explore diverse art forms and integrate them into my music," said Mr Lee.
Dr Jin Mengyao: Championing Cultural Heritage and Youth Development
Dr Jin Mengyao was named one of the ‘2025 Hong Kong Professional Elite Ladies’ for her outstanding contributions to education and cultural promotion. As Co-Director of the Centre for Classical Chinese Education and Lecturer in the Department of Chinese Language Studies, Dr Jin actively promotes cultural heritage and youth development. She has authored influential works such as The First Lesson of Chinese Civilisation and Magical Herbs, bridging academic excellence with public engagement.
Professor John Lee Chi-Kin, President of EdUHK, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the two alumni and Dr Jin Mengyao, praising their remarkable achievements in the fields of culture and arts, sports education, and professional leadership. He remarked, “EdUHK has always been committed to nurturing professionals with innovative thinking and diverse skills. Seeing our alumni and faculty shine across different domains fills us with immense pride and inspiration. We look forward to continuing our joint efforts to advance education and cultural development, and to contribute further to society.”
The ‘Ten Outstanding Young Persons Selection’, organised by the Junior Chamber International Hong Kong, China since 1970 and now in its 53rd edition, has recognised 413 talents who exemplify professional excellence and societal contribution.
The ‘Hong Kong Professional Elite Ladies’ award, now in its 15th year, is presented by the Junior Chamber International City Lady to honour women excelling in professional, cultural, and social spheres. This year’s theme, ‘盛放延棉 獨當一面’ (Grace and resilience with strength and independence), reflects the spirit of eight outstanding female awardees.
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EdUHK Alumni and Lecturer Honoured with 2025 ‘Ten Outstanding Young Persons’ and ‘Hong Kong Professional Elite Ladies’ Awards
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