Full Breakdown
Hong Kong Students Shine in Global Youth Storytelling Competition
1/17/2026, 9:13:56 PM
Championship Titles Awarded
Two students from Hong Kong achieved top honors in the inaugural STANCE Storytelling Competition 2025, held on Saturday. Vanessa Jane Wong, a Form Four student from the Independent Schools Foundation Academy, won the senior category, while Wan Ruixi, a Form Two student from Hong Kong University Graduate Association College, secured the junior prize. The competition, organized by the South China Morning Post and supported by Prudential Hong Kong, aimed to empower secondary school students to articulate informed and original perspectives on various issues, including personal experiences and broader social topics.
Themes and Perspectives
Vanessa Wong's winning speech focused on the emotional risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the potential dangers of becoming overly reliant on AI for companionship. She described her topic as deeply personal, stating, “After thinking about my topic a lot, I became more aware of how AI is used in more dangerous ways than before.” This reflection highlights the growing concern among youth regarding the implications of technology in their lives. Wan Ruixi's speech also contributed to the competition's overarching theme of encouraging young voices to engage with contemporary issues.
Official Statements & Responses
The STANCE Storytelling Competition was designed to provide a platform for students to express their views on significant topics. Organizers noted that the event was an excellent opportunity for participants to develop their storytelling skills and engage with pressing societal issues. The competition attracted an audience of approximately 100 people, showcasing the interest in youth perspectives on education and technology.
Criticism & Opposition
While the competition received positive feedback for promoting youth engagement, some critics argue that the focus on AI and technology may overshadow other critical issues facing students today, such as mental health and educational inequality. These dissenting voices suggest that a broader range of topics could enhance the dialogue among young storytellers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “After thinking about my topic a lot, I became more aware of how AI is used in more dangerous ways than before,” — Vanessa Jane Wong, Senior Category Winner
- “She described the competition as an excellent opportunity to develop her skills.” — Vanessa Jane Wong
What's Next
The success of the STANCE Storytelling Competition 2025 may pave the way for future events aimed at fostering youth expression and engagement. Organizers are likely to consider expanding the range of topics to include a wider array of social issues, ensuring that the voices of young people continue to be heard in meaningful ways.
