The hk prize is an international award to recognise scientists whose research has had a substantial impact on society. Open to researchers worldwide and selected through an impartial process without sponsorship or committee influence, it offers both monetary rewards and global exposure to winning scientists.
The winner of this year’s hk prize in the category Life Sciences and Medicine was Stuart Orkin, a professor at University of Hong Kong. He and his team found that altering a protein called BCL11A in stem cells could reactivate fetal haemoglobin production, enabling the treatment of sickle cell disease. The US Food and Drug Administration has since approved two treatments based on their research.
At the 41st Hong Kong Film Awards (2023), the director of police-and-robbers actioner Raging Fire, the final film of Benny Chan, took best picture and best action choreography, while the documentary Broad Daylight – about a reporter exposing abuse in care homes – won best short feature. Also honoured were a trio of young Hong Kong filmmakers in the new talent category: Wong Sui-pong’s Obedience, about the microcosm of a Hong Kong neighbourhood; Edmond Tang Wing-on’s Making Waves, which explores Hong Kong’s surf culture; and Joanna Ho’s My Nineteen Year Old Self, a coming-of-age drama.
Hong Kong’s art scene is thriving, as shown by the number of artists on this year’s hk prize shortlist. This year’s ’Colours of Humanity’ art prize challenges entrants to probe different aspects of our changing world, with the theme encouraging explorations on diversity, equity and inclusion at home and abroad. Organised by Justice Centre Hong Kong, and supported by Goethe-Institut Hong Kong, the prize is a celebration of visionary submissions and a platform to spark discussion.
The hk prize is an international competition to identify and reward individuals and groups with innovative ideas on the topic of sustainable development, with cash prizes, shopping vouchers and F&B perks up for grabs for the winners. Its unique international principles cultivate a spirit of innovation among young people and inspire the next generation to make a difference in the world. To date, more than 14,000 entries have been submitted across its various categories. The competition was founded in 1961 and is now run by a non-profit organisation with support from a wide range of donors. Click here for more information.