AIA Foundation awarded scholarships to 100 outstanding undergraduate students at the AIA Scholarships ceremony, marking the sixth cohort of AIA Scholars^#. The ceremony also celebrated the graduation of the third cohort of AIA Scholars and highlighted the first-year progress of the "AIA Purpose in Action" initiative.

 

In 2020, AIA committed US$100 million to establish the AIA Scholarships to support 100 undergraduate students each year from 10 universities in Hong Kong. Administered by AIA Foundation in collaboration with the participating universities, the AIA Scholarships provide each recipient with an annual scholarship of HK$50,000 throughout their undergraduate studies. Since its establishment, the AIA Scholarships have supported nearly 600 university students, with more than 230 having completed their undergraduate studies.

 

In addition to academic achievement and financial need, a demonstrated commitment to community service is a key selection criterion for AIA Scholars. Since 2020, AIA Scholars have contributed more than 50,000 hours^* of volunteer service through AIA Foundation's initiatives and other community projects.

 

 

At the ceremony, Mr Jacky Chan, AIA Regional Chief Executive and Group Chief Distribution Officer, and Mr Stuart A. Spencer, AIA Group Chief Marketing Officer, who serve as Co-chairmen of the AIA Scholarships Committee, shared their belief that building a healthier, more resilient and sustainable future requires collective effort. They highlighted how the AIA Scholarships equip young people with opportunities to broaden their horizons, realise their potential and explore new possibilities, with the aim of inspiring them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and help shape a better future.

 

Mr Ryan Choi, Hong Kong foil fencer, joined Mr Alger Fung, Chief Executive Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau and Director of AIA Foundation, and the AIA Scholar representatives for a dialogue on resilience and overcoming challenges. Through sharing their personal journeys, they inspired young people to pursue their dreams with confidence, realise their potential, create value for society and work together to help more people live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.

 

Ms Zara Chui, an AIA Scholar representative who graduated in 2024 and is currently a PhD candidate in Medicine at The University of Hong Kong, said: 'The AIA Scholarships eased the financial burden of my undergraduate studies, allowing me to dedicate my summer breaks fully to scientific research. Through activities organised by AIA Foundation, I also had the opportunity to meet outstanding students from diverse academic disciplines. These interactions inspired me to think about the practical applications of research from different perspectives. As fatty liver disease is increasingly common among Asians yet often difficult to detect at an early stage, I hope my research can contribute to the development of innovative screening solutions that enable earlier detection and treatment, harnessing the power of scientific research to safeguard public health."

 

Mr Louis So, an AIA Scholar representative and active participant in the "AIA Purpose in Action" initiative, shared: "The 'AIA Purpose in Action' initiative has provided valuable opportunities for learning and personal growth. Through its activities, I have connected with like-minded AIA Scholars and people from different communities. These experiences have broadened my horizons and inspired me to contribute more actively to society. For me, the AIA Scholarships are not just financial assistance, but also an important recognition that has given me the confidence and courage to pursue my aspirations. I aspire to become an educator, fostering a culture of reading and connecting communities through literature."

 

 

The ceremony also highlighted "AIA Purpose in Action" initiative ("Initiative") that launched last year to broaden AIA Foundation's impact beyond financial support. Through collaboration with partners and contributors, the Initiative features a series of curated experiences for AIA Scholars, supporting education, health and community development. 

 

Over the past year, AIA Scholars have participated in a diverse range of activities under the Initiative, including:

AIA Foundation was established in 1995 with its commitment on the advancement of education and health, the relief of poverty, sickness and disability, and the advancement of environmental protection and community development through diverse charitable activities to create shared value. AIA Foundation focuses on nurturing children and youth with its long-term commitment to cultivate a healthier and more productive future human capital. AIA Foundation strives on the advancement of health helping people live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives, and actively supports the less privileged aiming to contribute to the community at large.

 

For more information about AIA Foundation and the AIA Scholarships, please visit our website.