Changing lives, building ties: the U of T (Hong Kong) Foundation celebrates its 30th anniversary
Nov 25, 2025
Hong Kong scholars and family celebrate the 30th anniversary of the University of Toronto (Hong Kong) Foundation at a reception in Hong Kong. Since 1995, the Foundation has enabled 97 students to get a world-class education at U of T.
In 1995, a group of Hong Kong-based U of T alumni and friends established the University of Toronto (Hong Kong) Foundation, with a goal of helping talented Hong Kong students in financial need access a world-class education at U of T.
Three decades later, the Foundation commemorated its 30th anniversary with a celebratory reception in Hong Kong. Held on November 23, 2025, the event highlighted the life-changing legacy of the Foundation’s prestigious scholarships – awarded to 97 scholars since 1995 – as well as its success in strengthening the ties between U of T, Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region.
Marking her first official visit to Hong Kong as U of T’s president, Melanie A. Woodin spoke at the reception about the enduring value of this partnership.
“Our relationship with Hong Kong is of paramount importance to the university. The U of T (Hong Kong) Foundation is at the heart of this partnership, and its success over the past three decades is truly something to celebrate,” she said. “When Hong Kong scholars graduate, they carry the U of T spirit into the world – leading, serving and innovating in countless ways that build community and strengthen the bond between Hong Kong and Canada.”
Several scholars share the stage with (front row, left to right) Charles Edwin Reeves, Canada’s Consul General to Hong Kong and Macao; Foundation chair Daisy Ho; U of T President Melanie A. Woodin; and David Palmer, U of T’s vice-president, advancement.
Inspired by leadership and vision
Reflecting on its 30-year history, the Foundation’s chair Daisy Ho (MBA 1990) noted how the vision and spirit of the original founding partners – Stanley Ho (Daisy’s father) and Dr. Cheng Yu-tung – live on in the current leaders and board members, whose enthusiasm, in turn, spreads to countless supporters.
Over the past 30 years, nearly 100 scholars have applied their U of T education toward building better, healthier and more prosperous communities.
“Inspired by this leadership and vision, generations of Hong Kong alumni have continued to step forward, giving generously of their time, energy and resources to sustain our transformative scholarships,” she said.
Over the past 30 years, nearly 100 scholars have applied their U of T education toward building better, healthier and more prosperous communities.
A U of T alumna herself, Ho spoke about her immense pride in the Foundation’s tremendous impact – not only in terms of helping scholars pursue their dreams, but also in the positive change they bring to the world after graduating.
“Over the past 30 years, nearly 100 scholars have applied their U of T education toward building better, healthier and more prosperous communities,” she said. “Wherever they go, our scholars are outstanding ambassadors, contributing in fields ranging from engineering, law and scientific research to medicine, finance and public policy.”
Transformative impact
Jenkin Yuen (HBA 2025), who attended the reception, is one such scholar. Graduating from U of T last spring, he double majored in Sociology and Women & Gender Studies and says both these programs profoundly deepened his understanding of social injustice. This inspired him to pursue a career in law, and he’s now in his first year of the University of Hong Kong’s Juris Doctor program.
It’s deeply rewarding to know that through my connection to U of T, I am part of a strong and ever-growing bond between Canada and Hong Kong.
“I hope to play a part in upholding fairness in the Hong Kong judicial system and in ensuring that the voices, rights and interests of marginalized groups are represented,” he said.
It’s deeply rewarding to know that through my connection to U of T, I am part of a strong and ever-growing bond between Canada and Hong Kong.
“If it weren’t for my scholarships from the Foundation, my transformative U of T journey wouldn’t have been possible. I owe a massive thank you to the donors for their support, generosity and trust in me.”
In her opening remarks, the reception’s MC Harriet Chu (HBA 2010) shared similar sentiments on the scholarship’s impact. “I’m one of 97 proud recipients of the Foundation scholarships over the past three decades – support that transformed my life and made it possible to study at one of the world’s leading universities,” she said. “It’s deeply rewarding to know that through my connection to U of T, I am part of a strong and ever-growing bond between Canada and Hong Kong.”
Forging even stronger connections
The relationship between the U of T and Hong Kong communities stretches back to the 19th century, when U of T scholars first began to live and work in China. Today, with 5,947 graduates living in the city, Hong Kong is home to one of the largest U of T alumni populations outside of North America.
Underscoring the close connection between Canada and Hong Kong, Canada’s Consul General to Hong Kong and Macao, Charles Edwin Reeves, spoke at the event.
“On behalf of the Consulate General of Canada, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the University of Toronto (Hong Kong) Foundation on its 30th anniversary,” he said. “This anniversary not only amplifies the University of Toronto’s reputation for cultivating world‑class talent dedicated to making a meaningful difference in communities worldwide, but also strengthens ties between Canada and Hong Kong and the shared belief that investing in young people is investing in a brighter, more connected future.”
Two event attendees take a selfie with David Palmer and President Woodin at the 30th anniversary reception.
The final remarks of the evening came from David Palmer, U of T’s vice-president, advancement, who thanked the Foundation and its supporters for their generosity and steadfast commitment to changing scholars’ lives. “We are tremendously grateful to all those who have worked so hard and contributed so generously to advance the Foundation’s mission and vision,” he said.
Palmer also spoke of his excitement for the new 30th Anniversary Fund, which was announced at the event. All gifts to this fund will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the impact of every donation.
“With your support, we can extend this incredibly successful scholarship program – opening doors for new generations of scholars and forging even stronger bridges between Hong Kong and Canada,” he said. “While we are immensely proud of what we have built together, we are even more excited for what lies ahead.”
