“The thing I liked the most was the diversity of it. You are able to gain lots of different things from different people throughout the process.”
“It was a very fruitful experience. I like the people I met and the opportunity to work with them.
2024 SSILP fellows Nicholas Beckwith and Xiyan Huang shared their favourite experiences with SSILP at the Information Session on 9 January.
Prof. Cheryl Chui (first left), hosting the sharing with SSILP 2024 Fellows, Nicholas Beckwith (second left), Xiyan Huang (second right) and Luxi Zhang (most right) at the information session
Nicholas Beckwith, Artistic Director of Shakespeare4All, shared that what he appreciates most about SSILP is the sense of community. “From the mentors and organizing team to the other participants in the 2024 cohort, everyone comes from diverse backgrounds and experiences, each bringing unique perspectives. Some are in education, others in medicine, and some work with domestic helpers. The exchange of ideas was invaluable, and I was able to apply these insights to my job.”
Nicholas (right), sharing this thoughts at the mentoring session
Xiyan Huang, a Project Manager at Shenzhen One Foundation—one of the largest foundations in China focused on NGO fundraising—values her experience as a participant from Mainland China, particularly the chance to collaborate with peers in Hong Kong. Working on the Final Pitching Project with her Hong Kong partner allowed her to explore the similarities and differences between the two regions, offering valuable insights that she can apply to her organization’s practices.
Xiyan (left), presenting their collaborative project on the Final Pitching Day on 20 Sept 2024 alongside her partner from Hong Kong.
When asked to give tips to the SSILP 2025 applicants, Nicholas said, “Unlearn and relearn, shift your mindset.” Xiyan added, “Be confident, have faith in what you do and what you present.”
Partnerships and networking play a crucial role. Through the support from UBS, the programme not only secures funding but also gains access experienced mentors across various fields. SSILP participants move beyond traditional textbook learning; they engage with prominent leaders and mentors from diverse disciplines. The network they build includes not just mentors but also their peers, which enriches the learning experience significantly.
If you are looking to broaden your network and perspectives, now is the time! Submit the online application form, endorsement form, and a 1-minute self-introduction video before 7 February 2025 (Friday) 23:59 on https://ssilp.hk/apply-now/. We look forward to seeing you in the coming April!
