University student Samantha Yeung Pui-pui says, “The philosophy of the scholarship constantly reminds me to apply what I have learnt to meaningful causes for the benefit of more people.”
To many people, lacrosse is a relatively unfamiliar sport. For Samantha Yeung Pui-pui, an awardee of The Hong Kong Jockey Club Compassionate Leader Scholarship in 2024, the sport has strengthened her willpower and taught her to overcome adversity, inspiring her ambition to give back to society through education.
Samantha, a third-year physical education student at The Education University of Hong Kong, is also a member of the Hong Kong, China Women’s Lacrosse Representative Team. Her connection with the Club stretches back to her secondary school days at the Jockey Club Ti-I College. She also joined the Jockey Club Community Lacrosse Programme and has now benefited from the Club's scholarship. As she remarks with a smile, “From secondary school to university, the Club has accompanied me every step of the way.”
When she first considered applying for the scholarship, she hesitated, feeling the weight of the expectation to give back to society. Ultimately, she chose to seize the opportunity. “I plucked up my courage to submit the application and it opened the door to new possibilities.” Beyond academic results, the scholarship values empathy, a sense of responsibility and passion for community service—values that closely align with Samantha’s own beliefs.
Focused development with scholarship support
For years, Samantha juggled her studies, training and part-time work, often feeling the pressure of managing it all. The scholarship covers her full tuition fees, alongside academic and living allowances that ease her financial burden, allowing her to dedicate herself fully to her studies and athletic training.
The overseas academic allowance provided by the scholarship also enabled her to travel outside Hong Kong for a six-month academic exchange in Australia, broadening her global perspective. “I took more sports-related courses and met friends from all over the world,” says Samantha. The experience brought valuable insights into both her academic and personal growth.
Promoting lacrosse and serving the community through education
With lacrosse officially included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, Samantha is actively promoting the sport while planning for her long-term development. She aims to become a professional and socially engaged physical education teacher. She recognises youth mental health as a prominent social challenge in Hong Kong. “Today’s students face immense academic pressure. Sports can help them rediscover joy amid their busy schedules and learn to adopt a positive mindset when confronting adversity.”
Samantha believes lacrosse has unique educational value. It teaches young athletes to abide by rules during high-intensity competition, respect opponents and manage emotions. Team matches also nurture mutual respect and collaboration. Looking ahead, she hopes to help the next generation develop a positive mindset and enhance their mental well-being. She believes sports do more than strengthen bodies and minds—they unleash positive energy. “Physical education should not merely teach techniques; it should convey a spirit of perseverance, helping young people expand their social circles and master the art of getting along with others.”
Living out the spirit of a “compassionate leader”
Beyond financial support, the scholarship offers a wide range of experiential learning opportunities, including visits to a JC LevelMind Wellness Hub. The initiative strives to enhance young people’s mental wellness, operating dedicated spaces across all 18 districts of Hong Kong where teenagers can unwind, recharge and join stress-relief activities. Through this experience, Samantha gained a deeper understanding of the importance of peer support for young people and of learning to embrace setbacks positively. “It means I can face future failures with optimism. One day, I hope to serve as a role model for my students.”
These experiences have deepened her understanding of what the scholarship truly represents. “I want to put my knowledge to meaningful use and help more people. A positive action should bring happiness to the greatest number of people—this is exactly what it means to be a ‘compassionate leader’.” For her, this phrase is no longer an abstract slogan, but a constant reminder to apply her expertise in her future physical education and community work, inspiring younger generations and actively living out the ethos of “compassionate leadership” through a commitment to serving others.
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