Hongkonger Bonnie Lee hoping to use new IOC role to inspire next generation to greatness
Bonnie Lee has been named an International Olympic Committee young leader for the next three years
For Bonnie Lee Tin-sum, sport has always been about more than the physical. She sees it as having the power to bring people together, change society and teach life values.
Now, she hopes to use her position as one of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) young leaders to “plant the seeds” for the next generation, after learning first-hand what having resources could mean.
The 25-year-old Metro radio presenter does not have a particularly stellar sporting résumé, but she was chosen, along with 24 others, from 5,270 applicants to be a young leader for the next three years.
“My vision is to bring happiness and hope back to Hong Kong, especially for our youth,” Lee said. “It still feels like a dream come true. Our city has faced many challenges in recent years, and I see sports can drive social change. I truly believe the best of Hong Kong is yet to come.”
In her new-found role, Lee will be provided with expert guidance and coaching, access to sport and sport-for-development network, and seed funding of US$10,000 (HK$78,000) to turn her ideas into impactful and sustainable initiatives.
“It’s a 10-day journey for 16 youths, aged 11 to 13, to hike a 178-kilometre trail in Hong Kong, filled with a set of mission-based mental challenges,” Lee said. “The core idea is to target individuals who could greatly benefit from this growth opportunity.