SOTY 22/23: second runner-up in the Community Contributor category aims to make meaningful contributions to society
- Martin Lui Kwan-kit is the chair of the Red Cross Youth Unit 49 and he works to improve the lives of homeless individuals
- The 17-year-old hopes to become a barrister with a focus on human rights law
Martin Lui Kwan-kit is a Form Five student at Ying Wa College. Photo: HandoutWhen Martin Lui Kwan-kit took on the task of organising a visit to homeless individuals in Yau Tsim Mong district, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of unease.
As a Form Five student at Ying Wa College and the chair of the Red Cross Youth Unit 49, he was responsible for arranging the trip for lower form students. He was troubled by worries about potential parental objections and fear among students.
However, the 17-year-old’s apprehension transformed into a powerful realisation as he embarked on the experience.
“[People are] willing to talk to you and share their grievances, and you get to understand their difficulties,” Martin recalled.
During these visits, he witnessed first-hand the immense challenges faced by homeless individuals, particularly their struggles with drug addiction and health issues such as diabetes and slow wound healing; it was often difficult for people to follow medical advice to keep their illnesses in check and heal infections.
Motivated to make a difference, Martin collaborated with registered nurses to visit locations where the homeless resided, providing crucial assistance in wound care. Often encountering severe wounds that had deteriorated to the point of potential amputation, he also faced the additional challenge of hygiene maintenance during these visits.
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Over time, Martin’s perspective shifted as he realised the people he met were open to engaging in conversation and sharing their life stories. It became essential to build trust and forge genuine connections in order to have smoother interactions.
Armed with this new-found understanding, Martin aimed to involve more of his classmates in future visits, using his own experiences to guide and reassure them. To address safety concerns, he proactively communicated with parents, emphasising the purpose and significance of these visits.
In recognition of his outstanding community service, Martin was honoured as the second runner-up in the Community Contributor category at the Student of the Year Awards, a prestigious event organised by the South China Morning Post and solely sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club.
Looking ahead, Martin aspires to become a barrister, focusing on human rights law. Driven by the strong values instilled in him since childhood, he intends to continue dedicating his free time to community service.
He firmly believes engaging in such activities shines a light on the world’s harsh realities, adding that it was satisfying to know he made a meaningful contribution to the community while alleviating others’ suffering.