Four Staff, Alumni Recognised with Impact Awards

The University of Hong Kong presented its first-ever Impact Awards to four university and industry leaders Wednesday, part of HKU’s largest-ever Innovation Week Main Event.

Designed to honour members of the HKU community who have successfully translated knowledge, research, and innovative ideas into meaningful economic and social impact, the awards underscore that innovation extends beyond technological advancement to include the transformation of public services and the improvement of quality of life.

Nominees were put forward by Faculty Deans and the Director of Development and Alumni Affairs, while awardees were selected by a cross-sector judging panel based on demonstrated impact, innovative thinking, and entrepreneurial spirit.

The 2026 recipients include:

Professor Sophia Chan Siu-chee - The Director of the HKU Primary Health Care Academy and Head of the WHO Collaborating Centre for Health and Nursing Workforce Development in Primary Health Care, Professor Chan was recognised for her work translating health services research into public policy as Hong Kong's first nurse to serve as Secretary for Food and Health, and for advancing preventive and community-based primary healthcare across the city.

Professor Chun-hung Chu – The Associate Dean (Research and Knowledge Exchange) of the Faculty of Dentistry, Professor Chu was honoured for pioneering the translation of Silver Diamine Fluoride research into a widely adopted, non-invasive approach to preventing childhood dental caries. Over the past two decades, his work has improved oral health outcomes for children and influenced public oral health policy in Hong Kong and beyond.

Ms Doris Leung – Founder and CEO of Diamond Cab, Ms Leung was celebrated for pioneering Hong Kong’s first licensed barrier-free taxi service for wheelchair users, improving accessibility and mobility while advancing social entrepreneurship and inclusive transportation.

Ms Poman Lo – The Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Regal Hotels Group, Ms Lo was recognised for championing the integration of psychology, mindfulness, and Buddhist studies into ESG initiatives while launching iClub Hotels, Hong Kong's first carbon-neutral hotel brand.

The accolades reflect HKU’s commitment to fostering an ecosystem where research not only generates knowledge, but also drives sustainable development and societal well-being.