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SCMP Reporter

Galvin Chia Kau-yun, 17,  Chinese International School
Che Guevara - aside from being a fantastic pop culture icon, he cared deeply for the welfare of people. He fought tooth and nail for his beliefs,  attempting to establish a Cuba where the people's needs came first.
Justina Lee Sik-chi, Maryknoll Convent School, 16
I admire Nelson Mandela most. His leadership in the fight against apartheid and his determination - even after 27 years in prison - is stunning. He negotiated with the South African government, despite their differences.
Joei Chan Xilan ,15, Maryknoll Convent School
I love Napoleon. I learned from him that though I might be the smallest student in my year, I can make the biggest difference in the world. So, people who are suffering from Napoleonic complex (aka short-man syndrome), no more inferiority! We know we're short. Fear us.
Tanya Mehta, 14, Delia School of Canada
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was a 'Mahatma' (which means great soul) and 'Bapu' ( which means father) to the whole of India. He pioneered the 'Satya-greh' (non-violent protest) and helped India achieve independence. His faith in truthfulness and honesty makes him the favourite person of every Indian.
Shruti Srinivasan, 16, Delia School of Canada
Leonardo da Vinci is the most fascinating person ever. He was a true genius, both in art and science. His paintings are famous, especially the mysterious Mona Lisa. He was also very scientific and invented many things, though he never  produced them.
Hwa Young Kim, 15, Chinese International School
Although not so prominent in Hong Kong, the historical figure I admire most is Lech Walesa. He founded the Soviet Bloc's first trade union - Solidarity - and played a large role in bringing democracy to Eastern Europe and, eventually, Russia.
Sonia Chandiramani, 14, St Margaret's English Co-Ed Secondary School
'Genius is one per cent inspiration and 99 per cent perspiration.' Thomas Edison, the man who was deaf yet  registered more than 1,000 patents and even improved our  beloved telephone. All this from a man who only had three months of official schooling!
Lai Cheuk-wai, 16, Fanling Kau Yan College
I choose the woman who is on the US$1 gold coin - Sacagawea. She is one of the Shoshone tribe. Besides, she was the translator and the guide of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark in 1805. Without her help, North Dakota would never have been discovered.
Chan Kin-kan, 15, Diocesan Boys' School
Einstein is admirable but still we have Hawking nowadays. Washington was honest but that is not so uncommon, is it? Who would accept unfair judgments, be criticised, be crucified without resisting? Jesus would, for love.



Question of the week: Which historical figure do you admire most?