Puppet master and spinal muscular atrophy sufferer among the unsung heroes taking home 2018 Spirit of Hong Kong Awards
Inspiring individuals honoured for the ‘extraordinary’ ways they lead their lives and their richness of spirit in contributing to the community
A puppet master and a videographer helping retirees capture their final wishes are among the inspiring individuals who have won this year’s Spirit of Hong Kong Awards, organised by the South China Morning Post to honour residents who make the city a better place to live.
Hong Kong’s No 2 official, Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, was guest of honour at the ceremony on Friday. He was joined by awards patron David Akers-Jones, who was chief secretary from 1985 to 1987.
“Seeing these unsung heroes, I find myself so insignificant,” Cheung said. “I can hardly hold back the tears whenever I meet them and present awards to them.”
The top official earlier met some of the winners, including Josy Chow Pui-shan, who went home with the Overcoming Personal Challenge Award.
The English and linguistics student is afflicted with spinal muscular atrophy and has only minimal use of her hands. But the condition has not stopped her pursuing her dreams.