On this year’s National Day, during the “Speech Under the National Flag,” our school’s Class 6B student LI LOK CHING shared with all students her experience of joining a volunteer service trip in Manila, the Philippines, during the summer holidays. The trip enabled Li to grasp the true meaning of “Servant Leadership”: “To serve, but not to be served,” meaning to serve others rather than be served. She recalled renovating facilities for a local church and painting under intense heat. Although it was hard work, seeing the residents’ smiles made it feel priceless. When interacting with children in the community, she further realized that one can be content and happy even without material abundance, and that those who serve are equally healed and inspired. She encouraged the student leaders taking office in the new school year to integrate this “people-oriented, service-before-leadership” spirit into school organizations, and then extend it from the campus to the wider community. This is the commitment that today’s youth leaders should possess.

Li also said that this experience made her understand that going to different places for exchange and encountering the unknown will surely broaden one’s horizons. Only by bravely stepping out of one’s comfort zone can one discover one’s potential. Confidence is built through every attempt and through not being afraid of making a fool of oneself. Whether serving the community under scorching heat or travelling to a foreign land to engage in dialogue with the world, this reminds students: “Growth always happens outside the comfort zone.” This year marks the opening year of the country’s 15th Five-Year Plan. Li encouraged students not to underestimate their own strength, but to bravely step out of their comfort zones, explore the world, and strive to become responsible student leaders who will contribute to the future prosperity of the motherland and Hong Kong.