Ms. CHAN Ching-man, Kristy (2003 Alumna)

About the alumna:

  • Completed S.6 in 2003
  • Bachelor of Science, 1st class Honor, the Chinese University of Hong Kong
  • Faculty of Science, Dean's Honor List ,the Chinese University of Hong Kong
  • University Student Delegate, Goldman Sachs Global Leader Award
  • Hong Kong Goldman Sachs Global Leader Representative
  • Executive Officer, Hong Kong Police Force

Article(s):

Global Leadership

 

“Globalization”, a relatively new but important concept in the 21st century, first entered my thought a year ago. With advanced information technology, communications have been made easier, leading to a more efficient global network. We are growing up in an increasingly global context. For instance, many of us will work or study with people from all over the world. It is essential for us to realize our positions and roles in the context of the whole world and to acquire the skills needed for success in societies at both local and international levels.

“Two groups of people exist in the world.” One takes active roles to make decisions and lead the world while the other one simply follows without hesitation. We are all citizens of the globe, but if you are confident enough to take the responsibility to help make the world a better place, you have the potential to become a global leader in the near future. However, this does not necessarily mean that you are a good and successful leader. Many leaders have everything under their control, yet it is more important to learn to respect people, their backgrounds and their cultures. Moreover, good leaders all have a certain unique charisma, which automatically sets an example that can influence followers and change people’s minds. Actually, the key to success is just the demonstration of humanity from your hearts, which many global leaders speak about but fail to achieve.

This summer, very fortunately, I had the opportunity to see a lot really successful leaders after being honored as a Goldman Sachs Global Leader, Class of 2005, by the Goldman Sachs Foundation and the Institute of International Education (IIE). The award offered me a scholarship of US $3000 and fully paid for me to attend the 10-day Global Leadership Institute in New York City, during which I met the other 49 global leaders selected worldwide. Together we participated in seminars on critical international issues and leadership training workshops.

It is hard to imagine how a local university student like me lived in such a global village for ten days, but it was indeed a memorable and unforgettable experience, especially when we were exchanging ideas - 50 voices from 50 different backgrounds and cultures! During our stay in the US, we visited famous places like Grand Central Terminal, Central Park, the Empire State Building, the 9-11 remains and the United Nations. We were also given great chances to meet and interact with renowned speakers, from organizations like The Goldman Sachs Group, IIE, TIME Magazine, The Washington Post, Midwest Consulting Group, The Nature Conservancy, The UN Foundation, UNICEF, The United Nations and a number of prestigious universities including Morehouse College and Yale University. They shared many things with us the leadership qualities for the 21st century and crisis management skills. On the day when we were having a tour at the United Nations, we were so surprised to have Kofi Annan, the Secretary General of the United Nations as our guest, saying a few words to us during the lunch panel section. His speech was so impressive that I still remember his every single word now. Being the most distinguished 21st century global leader, Kofi Annan thinks, talks and acts in a way that makes people feel touched. “History is a hard judge; it will not forgive us if we let the moment pass,” said Kofi Annan in a program about AIDS. He seldom speaks a lot; instead, he always speaks for the minority at critical times. What an excellent global leader he is! I highly appreciate his unselfishness, enthusiasms and gentleness in uniting the whole world for years, especially, during the present hard times.

The trip was marvellous, meaningful and enjoyable, yet the competition had been extremely keen and tough. Only three of all Hong Kong university students would be honored as Goldman Sachs Global Leaders to represent Hong Kong and attend the Global Leader Institute that summer. To achieve it, one must have excellent academic records, good communication skills and leadership qualities. In addition, you need to be able to think globally and critically and give timely opinions on worrisome global issues. It is always not easy, but the very first step is to be aware of what’s happening around you and then look at the issues from a broader regional view and finally get the whole picture of the world. To my mind, everyone has the potential to succeed unless he/she refuses to try; so please be confident. “You all can make a difference!”