Why is Cantopop singer Chau Yan-ting performing at Hong Kong schools?

“It made me realise that even the smallest actions can leave a mark.”

In July, this sense of purpose inspired Chau to launch a year of free school performances. He aims to visit Hong Kong schools to encourage pupils to follow their dreams. He has since performed in more than 70 schools in the city.

“Looking back at my secondary school days, there were moments when I doubted myself and lacked confidence. I wished someone had been there to lift me up,” Chau said.

“Now, if I have the ability to do that for others, I feel it’s my privilege to try.”

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Chau released his first song in 2015. But he struggled for many years to find success, and it made him question if he should continue in this career.

But three years ago, his song, “Regret” (遲了悔改) went viral. It got more than 13 million views on YouTube. This year, Chau’s hit, “Three Lives of Luck” (三生有幸), topped local music charts, and the music video he directed for this song has more than 6.6 million views.

Now, Chau is one of the top five contenders for “My Favourite Male Singer” in the Ultimate Song Chart Awards Presentation next month.

“I need to embrace this moment completely because if I don’t, it’ll feel like waking up from a dream once it’s over,” he said.

He was also thankful for those who have supported him: “No one is obliged to support you, attend your shows or listen to your music. So, I’m deeply appreciative of everyone who has shown love for what I do.”

Through his school tour, Chau hopes to inspire students to tackle stress by improving their ability to persevere in tough times. Chau uses these moments to help students face what the real world can be like.

“I’m not here to paint the world as a beautiful place. I talk about its harshness, but I also emphasise that we still have to keep moving forward. It’s about being real with them,” he said.

Chau shares his advice with Hong Kong teens, but he is also learning from them.

“Interacting with them has taught me so much about what’s on their minds,” he said. “While I share my experiences, they also ask me many questions, which help me understand how I can better support them – whether through my music or meaningful discussions.”

The singer said he was especially touched when he saw how happy students were when he visited.

“Some even message me to share how much it meant to them ... I hope they know that someone in this city is truly listening to their voices,” he said.

• Reflect: How would you react if your favourite singer visited your school?

• Why this story matters: Many Hong Kong youth are struggling with their mental health. But this singer-songwriter is using his talents to give them comfort, strength and hope.