HKSTP’s Trip to Silicon Valley Inspired Young Talent to Be Next Generation Tech Leaders

(Hong Kong, 30 October 2023) – Led by a delegation of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), six winners of the Talent Game On 2K23 challenge embarked on an eye-opening journey to the West Coast of the US. Through the immersive experience of the thriving Silicon Valley innovation ecosystem and networking occasions with prestigious universities, young talents from all backgrounds were encouraged to explore the infinite possibilities in the I&T industry.         

The five-day itinerary was packed with visits to global leaders in AI computing and semiconductor NVIDIA and AMD; tours at iconic tech companies, including Google and Apple; exploring the School of Engineering and networking events with students and entrepreneurs at Stanford University, as well as insightful sharing sessions from the Stanford’s Professor and senior executives from Microsoft and Plug and Play.

Fun-filled activities were also arranged for the youngsters to experience cutting-edge technologies firsthand. For example, they explored the magic of VR with a first-of-its-kind immersive demo and the latest generation of smart glasses at Meta.

Ms Fanny Wong, Head of Talents and Human Resources, HKSTP, said, “As Hong Kong enters a golden era of innovation and technology, an exciting future lies ahead, not only for those from STEM disciplines but for all.”

“HKSTP’s Talent Game On and the trip to Silicon Valley are ideal showcases for young people to get a glimpse of the flourishing I&T ecosystem, inspiring them to explore the possibilities and pursue a career in I&T. By unleashing the potential of our next generation, we strive to strengthen our talent pool and establish Hong Kong as an international I&T hub.” She added.

Attracting over 102,000 participants, the Talent Game On 2K23 challenge was held in the first half of this year, featuring the “Talent Quest” virtual game, “Park Exploration” experience sessions, “Battle with Bosses” interviews with Park companies’ experts, among others. Two of the winners regarded the whole journey as inspiring, especially in the aspect of life planning.

“Technology is my passion and the reason why I’m studying AI and Machine Learning. But I had no clear sense of where it would take me. With insights from HKSTP programmes and Silicon Valley, where I had the opportunity to learn from real-world tech executives, I now believe that technology will lead me to a rewarding career in Hong Kong, the GBA, the UK and maybe even the US,” said Jeffrey Chang, a master’s student in Computing at Imperial College London. He also worked part-time at a Park company and was a champion in a hackathon co-organised by HKSTP.

Another winner Evan Tao said, “The Talent Game On has been a mind-blowing experience for me to connect with all those brilliant innovators and the I&T ecosystem. Hong Kong and HKSTP could be a springboard to new opportunities around the world that I had never contemplated.” Evan was a marketing professional from the mainland with 10-year experience in the FMCG industry. After completing a master’s degree in Hong Kong and an internship at Science Park, he is studying for a master’s in Advanced Management at the School of Management, Yale University.