“Define your unique O-U-T-S-T-A-N-D-I-N-G” — a chant echoing through 33 years of the Hong Kong Union for Young Leaders, uniting 3000 alumni over the years. From only a small camaraderie of four individuals, we have grown into a unique, non-profit, student-led organisation with the shared mission To Inspire Tomorrow’s Leaders Today in Hong Kong. Our alumni have ascended arduous altitudes, conquered formidable challenges, and supported each other in their growth as aspiring leaders, evolving into beacons of positive transformation within their own communities. For this, I must thank the unwavering dedication of our alumni.

​

Before we begin, How do we define O-U-T-S-T-A-N-D-I-N-G? As written in the Cambridge Dictionary, being outstanding refers to being “much better than usual.” According to the Union Dictionary, to be outstanding is to be unique. The word “Outstanding” does not simply entail outgrowing your peers, but underscores the importance of preserving individuality in this expedition. As leaders, we don’t necessarily have to outshine the rest. As leaders, we strive to become better versions of ourselves every day. As leaders, we create our destiny and not let fate determine us.

 

What about in our respective dictionaries? What is outstanding? What is UYL? These are questions we must repeatedly ask ourselves to not lose sight of the grandiose visions in the most intricate details as they serve as compasses guiding us on our path towards growth and prowess. My time in the Union has taught me to grasp every opportunity. Once we stray from the path, the chance to relive that experience slips away, leaving behind only echoes of what once was. So, back to the question, what is UYL? It is a place we all call home. Here in the Union, companionship is what everyone cherishes above all. The fact that the word “Union” is placed in front of “Young Leaders” underscores the significance of bonding and unity among UYLers. The number of exemplary young leaders does not determine the value of the Union, but rather the lifelong friendships that the Union brings to us. Now, take a moment to pause and gently set aside whatever you are focusing on. Look around you. The faces you see are the people who will journey alongside you through the upcoming year, and perhaps even beyond. Each of them brings their own stories, dreams, and experiences, intertwining with yours in ways you can't yet imagine. Consider the connections you’ll forge, the challenges you’ll face, and the memories you’ll create as you navigate this shared path. With your comrades, it’s time to…

 

“Venture the Valiant Voyage.”

 

The voyage ahead is nothing short of endless caverns. You will find yourself in a cave shrouded in mystery, where each fork is a doorway to unexpected experiences, leaving you unable to foresee the adventures and challenges that await just beyond the horizon. It is easy to get lost, and you might forget why you are here in the first place. Stalactites, stalagmites. Self-doubt, peer pressure. These are the things that may stop you from proceeding further into the cave, similar to the obstacles you might encounter on your upcoming Camper Journey.

 

I vividly recall being in your shoes last year, experiencing perhaps what you may be feeling right now. Apprehension? Hostility? Trepidation? But fear not, young leaders, for you have your friends by your side. The stumbling blocks might look insurmountable, but in your hands, nothing is unattainable. Today, the torch has been passed down to us, and here we are, embarking on a fresh start to the 33rd HKUYL. 

 

Now it’s time for you to Venture the Valiant Voyage.

 

HUNG, Chung Hei Anson

Chairperson