Literary Journal Celebrates Aspiring Young Writers

[The content of this article has been produced by our advertising partner.]

The City University of Hong Kong’s (CityUHK)  Department of English (EN) Student Publication Team proudly hosted a launch ceremony on 19 May for Halfway Home XV, celebrating the latest edition of its annual literary journal. The project provides a platform for aspiring young writers to showcase their literary talents under a specific theme. This year’s theme, “Birth”, encouraged writers to explore its metaphorical depths – examining whether life is the only result of birth. The journal features works by CityUHK students, secondary students and acclaimed international writers.

The book launch ceremony celebrated the literary achievements of all contributors. Professor Jason HARDING, Head of EN, delivered an inspiring opening speech highlighting the publication’s continued success and its role in fostering creative expression. An awards ceremony followed, recognising Outstanding Writers for their exceptional pieces. A reading session added a personal touch to the celebration, as writers shared their published works and offered insights into their creative journeys. This unique exchange gave the audience a greater understanding of the inspirations and creative processes behind the featured stories and poems. 

The EN Student Publication Team thanked the talented students involved in the making of Halfway Home XV. Their contributions not only enriched this year’s edition, but also reaffirmed the publication’s mission to nurture a vibrant environment for aspiring writers to grow and thrive. 

Outstanding Writers – Poetry
Nicola Wan – For From It Flow the Springs of Life
Jeenendra Agarwal – A Life Born or a Life Half-Lost
Chow Cherlin – Birth

Outstanding Writers – Short Stories
Ng Kai Yeung – Après Moi, le Deluge
Siu Yan Lin – I Should've Never Been Born
Ethan Quayle – Anthropocene

Outstanding Writers – Non-fiction
Lee Yan Shing Joshua – No Longer Hong Kong, Not Quite
Singapore: My Belated Birth as a Hong Kong Singaporean