While students often look up to role models in the wider community, many also find them within their own school, including at Malvern College Hong Kong (MCHK). And seeing a peer navigate the same academic and social challenges to achieve something special can make success feel attainable for other students, too.
The team at MCHK knows this all too well. That’s why it offers an array of opportunities spanning sports, music, leadership, design and more, and actively encourages students to cultivate their unique talents, embrace challenges and step into leadership roles. Role models are introduced from all areas of life, from the Hong Kong Sevens to the Hong Kong Philharmonic.
Here, we take a look at some who have done exactly that over the past year at MCHK, with a spotlight on eight achievements on both a local and international stage. The Malvern pupils involved are not just role models for their peers today; they’re also being equipped with the skills and confidence to become role models in their respective fields tomorrow.
#1 Natural Science & Innovation
At the prestigious Global Natural Science and Innovation Competition held at Imperial College London, a Malvern team, the “Handy Helpers”, secured the gold medal in the U16 category. Between them, the five pupils showcased a groundbreaking project: a personalised arthritis assistance glove featuring advanced custom software integration. Their design highlighted the practical medical utility of technology while addressing the needs of users and prioritising comfort.
Timothy Barrett, Head of Design at MCHK, says the international success underscores the school’s strong emphasis on creativity and collaboration. “We have a very strong design community and wins like this showcase and celebrate that culture.”
#2 Dance
Following impressive performances in the 2026 Hong Kong Squad Selection Competition and other events, dancer Vianna Leong competed in her first World Dance Sport Federation (WDSF) event, the Bailando Open Championships in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Pitted against 70 athletes from Kazakhstan to Vietnam, Vianna achieved an impressive fourth-place finish. She also earned one gold, two silver and two bronze medals in supplementary categories.
While this achievement in itself makes Vianna an amazing role model for the school and the community, the Malvern team says she is now focused on climbing the ranks, with aspirations of reaching the world number one position.
#3 Leadership
Malvern College Hong Kong hosted its inaugural TEDx MCHK Youth event earlier this year, with the theme “Visions Vs Illusions”. Ten pupils and teachers shared their insights and perspectives, each crafting their experiences into a talk of up to 18 minutes in length.
The school says the event transformed a collection of ideas into a compelling showcase of thought leadership, encouraging the audience to think differently and embrace new ideas along the way.
#4 Rugby Sevens
A group of MCHK pupils showcased their sportsmanship and teamwork as part of the Flying Kukris squad at the iconic Hong Kong Sevens this year. The U9/10 girls’ team secured a thrilling 4–3 victory in their showcase match on the main pitch, cheered on by the enthusiastic Sevens crowd. The team also got the chance to feature in the traditional march past, meeting the Hong Kong China team and rugby legends Dan Carter, Brian O’Driscoll and Bryan Habana. Malvern says, “It was a special weekend that served as a wonderful reminder of the opportunities that sport can provide, both within the school and beyond.”
#5 Malvern’s Got Talent
This year’s Malvern’s Got Talent event was another celebration of the creativity of the school’s Prep 1–6 pupils. With more than 300 audience members looking on, performances included aerial hoop and ballet displays, martial arts demonstrations, magic tricks, energetic dancing and speech-making, and the sounds of piano, harp, flute and traditional strings. “The event again highlighted the bravery it takes for young performers to step into the spotlight and share their talents,” says the school.
#6 English, Science & The Arts
The Chinese National Academic Pentathlon (CNAP) is an opportunity for students to showcase their skills across English, Science and the Arts. This year, two MCHK teams embraced the challenge, engaging in speech writing, research and exhibit-creation while developing confidence, teamwork and critical thinking abilities.
After three days of rigorous competition, both teams ranked among the top 10 overall. One achieved an impressive second place for their themed speech and also won the Best Exhibit award for their exceptional environmental project. The other was honoured with a Rising Star Award in the Liberal Arts category.
#7 Outdoor Adventure
The Adventurous Young People (AYP) programme at MCHK provides pupils with opportunities to build confidence, independence and lifelong friendships. Recently, the programme’s Bronze teams embarked on an invigorating hike around the base of Sunset Peak. Pupils camped overnight at the Nam Shan Campsite, where they developed outdoor skills by preparing meals from their expedition menus. On the final day, they showcased their resilience and teamwork by completing the last 16 kilometres of the hike to Tung Chung, supporting each other along the way.
#8 Senior Orchestra
The Senior Orchestra at MCHK performed alongside the Hong Kong Philharmonic, playing with “confidence, poise and expressive musicality” according to the school. Among the highlights was a stunning solo performance by Music Scholar Charis Chan, which captivated the audience. “The event highlighted the opportunities available at Malvern for developing musical skills and also served as a testament to the importance of collaboration and teamwork,” says the school.
A word from the Headmaster
MCHK Headmaster Edward Wright on how pupils can strive to emulate their peers who are featured on these pages – plus who his own role model was when growing up.
“The first step in emulating role models is always the most difficult. Moving from ‘thinking about’ to ‘starting’ is an achievement that many don’t take. The beginning of a school year has always been my favourite time in the educational calendar – the endless possibilities that a new school year brings ensure an unmistakable sense of optimism. But real growth happens when pupils turn inspiration into action. To emulate their peers, pupils don’t need a master plan on day one. They need the courage to take the risk and dive in.
“Growing up near Newcastle in North East England, I was lucky to have many possibilities for local role models. The one that made the biggest impression on me was rugby player Jonny Wilkinson. He championed the dedication needed to reach the top of any field. The great thing about athletes is that their effort is visible. When I would watch the Newcastle Falcons train before a match, the sheer volume of kicking practice he did, long after the others had gone inside, was astounding. And it was coupled with humility and respect that he showed both within the teams he played for and towards his opposition.”
Malvern College Hong Kong is at 3 Fo Chun Road,
Pak Shek Kok, New Territories.
3763 0111 | malverncollege.org.hk
This article first featured in the Autumn 2026 issue of Expat Living magazine. You can buy the latest mag or an annual subscription, or read the digital version for free now.
