As my journey with the Laidlaw research program draws to a close, I find myself reflecting deeply on what it means to be a global citizen and an ethical leader. Participating in the Laidlaw program has not only enriched my academic and research capabilities, but also transformed my worldview; it has compelled me to think beyond borders and act with integrity in every sphere of my life. In an era defined by rapid interdisciplinary innovation and complex global challenges, embracing these values feels more important than ever. The interconnectedness of our world means that our actions resonate far beyond our immediate environment, touching every domain of humanity and requiring us to lead with empathy, responsibility, and a commitment to the greater good.

This summer, I had the privilege of conducting research at the HKU Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, working in collaboration with the School of Biomedical Sciences and the HKU iGEM 2024 Team. Under the guidance of Dr. Rio Sugimura, our project delved into pioneering strategies for cancer immunotherapy – specifically, the development of CAR-Ma, an approach that integrates humanized nanobodies with multi-modal RNA technology. Our mission extended far beyond scientific discovery; we aspired to tackle pressing global health challenges by enhancing immune system coordination and overcoming cancer’s sophisticated mechanisms of immune evasion. Immersed in a dynamic team of innovative, inquisitive, and internationally-minded collaborators, I came to truly understand that medical research transcends borders. Diseases do not recognize boundaries, and neither should our solutions. This experience deeply ingrained the values of global citizenship in me, reminding me that impactful science is built on collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared responsibility to improve lives on a global scale.

Throughout the program, the leadership seminars and ethical leadership courses, such as those from HKU Horizons and the Oxford Character Project, have made a profound and memorable impact on me. I learned that ethical leadership is not just about making the right choices in times of crisis, but about embedding values such as honesty, accountability, and humility into everyday decision-making. It is about recognizing the power that comes with leadership and the responsibility to use it to serve others, especially the most vulnerable. My research experience has reinforced my belief that ethical leadership requires courage: the courage to ask difficult questions, to admit when you do not have all the answers, and to seek solutions collaboratively.

Looking ahead, I am excited to continue this journey by working with TSN in Boston over the summer, contributing to digital healthcare solutions that aim to bridge gaps in access and quality. I am committed to applying the lessons of global citizenship in every context I enter. I will strive to lead by example, fostering inclusivity and openminded-ness, while advocating for people- and community-centered, ethically responsible innovations in the context of global issues. The Laidlaw Scholarship has truly been a transformative experience, empowering me not only to push the boundaries of knowledge but also to do so responsibly and with a global perspective.