The economies of Thailand and Malaysia have been surging in recent years. Many students aspire to make a fortune in the finance and business sectors. Marwin and Lucas are among them. They received the Belt and Road Scholarship to come to Hong Kong. They are studying Global Economics and Finance and Global Business Management, respectively. Greatly admiring Hong Kong's flexibility and high efficiency, they vision to develop a career in this international financial center after graduation.

Hanifa and Albert from Indonesia received the Belt and Road Scholarship to study at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.
Studying in Hong Kong has enriched their life experiences and broadened their horizons as well as contributing to their personal growth and connecting to the outside world. In their views, what are the advantages and attractions of Hong Kong? How can these contribute to the development of their homeland?

Two PhD students from Ethiopia and Ghana have traveled a long distance to study in Hong Kong. What attracted them to Hong Kong? In this international metropolis, what observations and experiences have they had while studying and interacting with students from different places? How are they pursuing their dreams here?

Two Russian PhD students who came to Hong Kong through the "Belt and Road Scholarship", one studying Chinese literature and the other science, what are their impressions of Hong Kong? How are they adapting to life in Hong Kong? What are their goals and expectations for future development?

In the Almanty of Kazakhstan, the story of Sara Nurmukhamet unfolds like the dawn's gentle light. With outstanding academic achievements as her foundation, she sets forth on a path leading to the bustling streets of Hong Kong, firmly believing that knowledge can change one’s destiny; every dream must be nurtured through hard work to bloom into brilliance.

At the age of twenty-four, Sara seizes a scholarship to study for a Bachelor’s in Business Administration in Hong Kong Polytechnic University, immersing herself in the city’s wisdom and vitality. After two years, she not only earns her degree but also meets her Venezuelan husband, who shares her quest for knowledge. After four years of a loving courtship, they married in Hong Kong, even their wedding photos adorned with the city’s unique charm.

Sara understands that dreams are not out of reach; with passion in her heart, hope ignites. Hong Kong becomes not just a second home for her and her husband, but the launchpad for her entrepreneurial journey. She establishes a small online trading company, determined to connect Kazakhstan with the world, while also sharing her experiences as a Kazakh student in Hong Kong through her blog, inviting others to see the city through her eyes.

Ultimately, Sara’s journey serves as a poignant reminder: courage and wisdom are the best companions on the path to pursuing dreams. Through her experiences, she proves that with relentless effort, no matter where one is, dreams will eventually blossom.

Kanisa Sattayanurak grew up in Chiang Mai, Thailand, a country famous for its rice production. In Thai, "Kanisa" means "ears of rice", which seems to have destined her life to be closely connected with the land.
Kanisa graduated with a degree in architecture from Chiang Mai University and came to Hong Kong in 2018. She first completed a two-year master's program at The University of Hong Kong. After putting down model after model, Kanisa stayed at HKU to pursue a Ph.D., focusing on a very local research project: the interaction between heritage, landscape, and residents.
Whether stepping into the bustling Man Mo Temple on Hollywood Road in Sheung Wan or visiting the Roman-style structure at the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir, Kanisa felt the evolution of a city and how people understand their own history. In Sham Shui Po, Kanisa also enjoyed soybean milk and tofu pudding. Despite the seemingly chaotic old district, she discovered the mobility of people and the vitality of the grassroots in Sham Shui Po's street stalls. Studying in Hong Kong for six years, Kanisa walked between the old and new Hong Kong, observing the city from the perspective of an architecture student. Her observations deepened her understanding of heritage, landscape, and people's lives, showing that the values of preserving historical sites and maintaining original lifestyles are closely intertwined.
After six years in Hong Kong and about to graduate with her Ph.D., Kanisa will return to her hometown in Thailand to teach at her alma mater, Chiang Mai University. She says she will miss the taste of Hong Kong's food and her days exploring the city.

Minu, a student from Sri Lanka, is studying at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. She always wanted to study abroad and chose Hong Kong because she liked its international feel and diverse culture.

Minu's family is middle-class, and her father agreed to her studying in Hong Kong only if she got a full scholarship. She found that Hong Kong universities welcome international students and offer scholarships to help with costs.

At the university, Minu enjoys the mix of students and the support available. She aims to work in international business after graduation and believes her time in Hong Kong will prepare her well for that future.

Anastasia Rudakova (Ana) used to be a model in Russia and has worked in various countries and cities. In 2022, she left her full-time modelling career and came to Hong Kong for her second degree. Envisioning a future as a fashion designer, she now considers Hong Kong her second home.

Agita Pasaribu, a 32-year-old practising lawyer from Indonesia, has long been an advocate for women's rights. In 2020, she founded a mobile application to provide emotional and legal support to victims of cyberbullying and has actively advocated for the passage of the Sexual Violence Law in Indonesia.

In 2024, Agita brought her experiences to the University of Hong Kong, engaging with individuals from diverse backgrounds. This exchange invigorated her professional journey and reinforced her belief that the integration of technology and education can overcome various barriers, empowering women with a stronger voice.

By sharing her story, Agita encourages others to find their voices, challenge themselves, and change the world. She hopes to help every oppressed individual understand that technology and law can assist in breaking the silence, ensuring that every voice can be heard.