HCI Celebrates the Class of 2023

Tok Jun Yi Alaric  (22S7F)

Alaric, as the 49th Hwa Chong Students’ Council President, epitomised dedication and leadership. His duties included leading the Executive Committee and voicing the student body's opinions on school-related matters. Alaric diligently managed the Council elections and showed genuine care for the well-being of his fellow Council members while passionately embracing his leadership role.

“To all my Students' Council teachers and my 22S7F tutors, thank you for your constant support, advice and care for me throughout my life in Hwa Chong. Thank you for playing a pivotal role in helping me grow into a better person.”

Yam Yen Yee (22S73)

Yen Yee, as the Students’ Council Vice President, played a pivotal role in orchestrating numerous significant school events, notably the C1 Orientation and the Hwa Chong-Asia Pacific Young Leaders Summit. She spearheaded Project Liberi in partnership with New Life Stories, showcasing her leadership as the Team Leader. From its inception to its culmination, Yen Yee exhibited remarkable dedication and organisational skills, evident in the successful concert organised by the team. Her capacity to initiate and oversee projects beyond the school realm speaks volumes about her competence and commitment.

“Mr Jeremy Ng, thank you for your constant encouragement - it helped to ignite my academic curiousity and nurture a genuine love for learning.

Ms Germaine Tan, thank you for your steadfast guidance throughout my council journey.”

Clement Gwee You Qi (22S7B)

In the realm of academic and extracurricular excellence, Clement stands out with his remarkable achievements. Notably, he clinched a Gold and Special Award at the Singapore Science and Engineering Fair 2023 and secured a Silver Medal in the Singapore Chemistry Olympiad 2022. Moreover, Clement attained both an Individual Distinction and guided his team to a 1st placing at Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine Anatomy Challenge 2023. His leadership abilities were further showcased through his role as Chairman of the SMTP-GATE Committee, where he orchestrated successful events such as Homecoming and Open House for SMTP-GATE classes. Additionally, as the quartermaster for Wushu, Clement played a crucial role in the team's achievements, contributing to their 1st and 2nd Team Placings at the A-Div Wushu Championships in 2022 and 2023 respectively.

“Mrs Goh-Yip Cheng Wai, thank you for inspiring my passion in Biology, mentoring me for my first research project and for showering myself and the rest of 4i3 with your kindness. Your sincerity, compassion and dedication to teaching has inspired me to strive towards a better version of myself.”

Tan Keng How (22S7J)

Keng How's dedication to service and leadership shone brightly during his tenure as the Science Students’ Research Club Vice-President and International Science Youth Forum 2023 (ISYF) Student Co-Chairperson. Despite numerous challenges encountered at the ISYF, Keng How exemplified the school value of resilience, steadfastly guiding his team through adversity without faltering. Additionally, as a Nan Chiau Youth Mentor, he generously gave back to his alma mater by offering academic support through tutoring and providing practical assistance such as preparing meals for their night study programme, thereby demonstrating his commitment to the betterment of future generations.

“Mr Lee Gah Hung, thank you for always supporting us students and reminding us of the bigger picture.

Dr Erkan Polatdemir, thank you for always showing us the beauty in what we learn and encouraging us to look beyond academics.”

Bai Ruotong (22S7D)

Ruotong proudly represented Singapore at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair 2023, where her exceptional talents were recognised. She garnered acclaim, receiving a prestigious Special Award Presented by King Abdulaziz & his Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity, in addition to achieving the 4th Placing in the Material Science Category. The competition proved to be a profoundly transformative journey for Ruotong, providing invaluable learning experiences—from the rigorous research process to the opportunity to share her work with professionals and delegates hailing from diverse corners of the globe.

“To my research mentor Dr Kelvin Tan as well as my tutors Dr Erkan Polatdemir, Mr Wee Chorng Shin and Dr Sandra Tan, thank you for supporting me throughout my time in Hwa Chong and especially in my research journey. Your guidance and advice further fuels my passion and love for research and beyond.”

Li Xinrui (22S7D)

Li Xinrui's unwavering passion for the sciences led to remarkable achievements. Notably, he clinched the 2nd position in the Physics and Astronomy category at the International Science and Engineering Fair. Additionally, Li Xinrui's prowess in physics was further highlighted by his attainment of a Gold Medal at the International Young Physicist Tournament 2022. Beyond his scientific endeavors, Li Xinrui's contributions extended to music, where his participation as a member of the Chinese Orchestra played a role in the CCA being honored with a Certificate of Distinction at the 2023 SYF Arts Presentation.

“I would like to thank Dr Erkan Polatdemir and Mr Pang Biaojin, as well as my high school teachers Mr Rudy Lee and Mr Fong Cheng Shek for all the care, support and knowledge you have given me!”

Lin Zongkai (22A14)

Zongkai's deep-rooted passions for history and politics have been evident since his youth, guiding him to delve into these subjects through the Humanities Programme. His keen interest in current affairs further inspired him to take on the role of President of the Students' National Education Council (SNEC), where he actively contributed to the student community. Additionally, Zongkai's love for languages manifested in his role as the playwright for High School’s Chinese Society (Drama), significantly contributing to the CCA's achievement of the Distinction at the Singapore Youth Festival 2021. Moreover, his commitment to philanthropy was demonstrated through his role as an Organising Team Member of Project Edelstein, which benefitted the Bone Marrow Donor Programme, showcasing his dedication to making a positive impact beyond academia.

“Ms Clara Khoo, thank you for being such a good mentor to me. As my history teacher and SNEC teacher in-charge, you were invaluable in providing me guidance in my journey, as well as supporting my growth as a leader. All this was only possible due to your great selflessness and dedication to your work and your students.”

Sng Yun Wen Faith (22A14)

Faith demonstrated unwavering commitment as a student of both the Humanities and Bi-Cultural Studies Programmes. Her academic excellence was recognised with a Second Prize at the Singapore-China Virtual Youth Forum 2022 and a Certificate of Commendation from the 2023 John Locke Institute Essay Competition. Additionally, Faith played a pivotal role as the Apollo Deputy Faculty Head, actively engaging in diverse activities aimed at fostering unity and camaraderie within the Faculty.

“Thank you to the many teachers I’ve been privileged to learn from and work with. In particular, I’d like to thank my Civics Tutor, Mr Benjamin Hathaway, for his unwavering support and limitless cheesy knock-knock jokes, and Ms Clara Khoo, for her tireless dedication and infectious passion for History.”

Koh Shing Yee (22S7B)

Shing Yee made significant contributions to various community causes, participating in 12 projects with different local organisations and embarking on 2 overseas Community Involvement Programme (OCIP) trips to Vietnam. Her efforts impacted a wide range of beneficiaries, including underprivileged children, the elderly, and others in need. Notably, Shing Yee served as the Team Leader of Project Afterglow with Assisi Hospice, where her team conducted a comprehensive project to address the diverse needs of the organisation and its beneficiaries. From active fundraising to essential responsibilities such as van escort and in-patient ward duty, Shing Yee and her team formed meaningful friendships and bonds with the patients. Additionally, she took on the role of CIP Council Secretary-Treasurer, further demonstrating her dedication to serving the community.

“Ms Janise Phang, Dr Edwin Lim, Ms Jaslyn Kan, Dr Wee Juan Dee and Ms Melissa Koh, thank you all for your mentorship as CIP Council tutors.

Mr Ma Zhou, Ms Tan Choon Siew and Ms Karen Ong, as your 22S7B student, thank you for your inspirational kindness, patience and belief in me.”

Qiu Xinyu (22S7G)

Driven by a fervent desire to serve the community and the public, she assumed leadership roles in initiatives like 'Project from the Heart' with the Singapore Heart Foundation. Additionally, she dedicated her time to volunteering regularly at the Interact Club of Sembawang, a community public-health-based Interact Club, and participated in Meet-the-People sessions at Bukit Batok. Following her secondary 4 education, she proactively reached out to professors to explore research opportunities and had the privilege of collaborating with Dr. October Sessions from the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health. Her research project earned recognition, ultimately receiving a Merit award at the Singapore Science and Engineering Fair in 2023. Furthermore, Xinyu served as the Secretary-Treasurer of the Chinese Orchestra, showcasing her multifaceted dedication to both academic pursuits and extracurricular activities.

“Ms Soh Swee Keng, thank you for your unwavering trust in me; you've supported me to pursue my dreams and encouraged me to keep going when I faced challenges. May we continue to stay in touch even upon graduation ❤️”

Pan Congchang (22S6G)

Congchang's remarkable achievements in sports culminated in him being named Sportsboy of the Year 2023. Notably, he clinched a Bronze Medal at the 2021 Southeast Asian Games Canoeing Men’s K4 500m event and achieved first placings at the 2023 National School Games Canoeing K1 500m and 1000m races. Additionally, Congchang served as an Organising Team Member of MDAS-HCanoe Paddle the Extra Mile, benefiting the Muscular Dystrophy Association Singapore. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, he spearheaded the proposal of a revised event structure, implementing extra measures to ensure compliance with safety protocols. His team demonstrated remarkable adaptability, often having to adjust to new situations at short notice, showcasing Congchang's leadership and resilience in the face of adversity.

“Ms Wang Yitian, thank you for your unwavering support and guidance throughout my two years in Hwa Chong.

Mrs Violet Teo, thank you for always believing in me.”

Esther Tay Shee Wei (22S7D)

Esther achieved a significant milestone by breaking Singapore’s women's pole vault record at the National School Games 2023, clearing an impressive height of 3.37 meters. Her accomplishment was the result of remarkable discipline, effort, and rigorous training. Additionally, Esther had the honor of representing Singapore in the Asian Under-20 Athletics Championships, further showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport. Beyond her athletic pursuits, Esther played a pivotal role as the Track and Field Captain, serving as a crucial mentor to her peers and juniors. In her role as the CCA Council President, Esther and her team orchestrated various leadership events, including the CCA Leaders Camp, demonstrating her exceptional leadership skills. Moreover, Esther took on the role of organising team leader for Project Haircatchers’ inaugural public, physical carnival, showcasing her commitment to community engagement and service.

“Mrs Cheng Ming Li, thank you for poring over chemistry resources to answer my out-of-syllabus questions and chatting with me for hours.

Dr Melvyn Lim, thank you for your valuable advice when I led Project Haircatchers and also when I was applying for scholarships.

Coach David Yeo, thank you for your patience and wisdom in my pole vault journey.”

Chia Sin Jie (22S6D)

Sin Jie's tenure as the Music & Dance Society Vice-President was marked by distinction and achievement. Under her leadership, the CCA showcased its talent through numerous dance performances at schoolwide events, including Dance Night and National Day Celebration. The CCA's exceptional performances earned them a Certificate of Distinction at the SYF Arts Presentation (International Dance), highlighting Sin Jie's effective stewardship. Additionally, Sin Jie demonstrated her dedication to academic excellence as a computing student, earning the CSIT Scholarship in both 2022 and 2023. Her commitment to both artistic and academic pursuits exemplifies her multifaceted talent and drive for success.

“I would like to thank Mr Lee Yung Hei, my Civics Tutor, and all my subject teachers for their unwavering support during my journey in JC. Special thanks to Mr Kor Zhi Yang for his patience in reviewing my essays and AQ during consultations, and for reminding us to practise self-care during challenging times. I am also immensely grateful to my CCA teacher, Ms Chen Phi Fern for her constant guidance in nurturing my leadership skills.”