OWN Academy’s purpose-driven education is unlocking potential – it’s helped these teens take ownership of their studies and their future

The traditional education system has not evolved to meet the demands of today’s digital economy, says OWN Academy founder Natalie Chan

Encouraging young people to pursue a career they are passionate about is integral to OWN. ‘I realised it could be possible to love your job,’ 18-year-old says

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Hong Kong-based education platform OWN Academy, founded by Natalie Chan, gives students career direction. Photo: OWN Academy

Published: 2:45pm, 19 Jun 2021Updated: 10:42am, 17 Aug 2021

Alanna Sethi had just moved to Hong Kong from Britain when the coronavirus pandemic hit.

Social distancing quickly became part of daily life and classes at the Australian International School, where she had just enrolled, shifted online. Sethi soon found herself questioning what she wanted, not just from the education system but from life itself.

Having struggled with mental health issues – and supported friends who, too, were struggling – Sethi was determined her career choice would be motivated by happiness, not money. In July last year, she made the switch to home schooling.

“I’m now doing three internships,” says the 17-year-old via Zoom.

Alanna Sethi (left) and Yui Kurosawa say OWN Academy gives them focus, and a better idea of what career they want to pursue. Photo: OWN Academy

Sethi says the internships would not have been possible without OWN Academy, a Hong Kong-based, purpose-driven education platform that helps connect students to companies with real-world learning through skills training, workshops, lectures, and mentor and internship opportunities.

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