The Story of Paris( a former homeschool student in Hong Kong) : How the Spirit of RISE Became a Source of Power for Giving Back to Society

HSA Vision & Mission: RISE!

RISE — to grow with Resilience, live with Integrity, serve with Purpose, and be Empowered to thrive in society.

The Story of Paris( a former homeschool student in Hong Kong) : How the Spirit of RISE Became a Source of Power for Giving Back to Society

Eight years ago, Paris — daughter of Dr. Lai — was a Primary 4 student in a local school. Each day, she returned home burdened by unhappiness and emotional disengagement. The rigid structure of the mainstream system left her feeling unseen and unheard. In a courageous act of self-advocacy, Paris wrote a heartfelt letter to her mother, asking to be homeschooled.

Dr. Lai chose to listen — and she chose wisely. Her actions reflected a deep understanding of what truly matters in education and in life. She:

1. Listening with Empathy and Courage

Heard Paris’s voice with empathy and courage, even when it challenged conventional norms and expectations. Dr. Lai chose to prioritize her daughter’s happiness over conformity. Together, they co-created GlobalHomeEdu, a transformative curriculum that blended homeschooling, worldschooling, and life education. At age 15, Paris transitioned from homeschool to the Hong Kong Polytechnic University — not just academically prepared, but radiating the joy and emotional strength that grew from an education rooted in happiness and self-discovery.

2.  Empowering Ownership and Responsibility

Empowered Paris to take full ownership of her learning and life, fostering independence, confidence, stand-up ability and self-leadership. Dr. Lai then applied the final stage of homeschool leadership: delegation. From day two of university, Paris took full responsibility for her studies and life. Today, Paris is in her final year, thriving not only as a student but as a contributor to the HSA community — redesigning its logo, website, and co-authoring the RISE mission. Paris is rising to give back to society and make a positive social impact in Hong Kong, using her journey to inspire and uplift others who feel unseen or unheard in traditional education systems.

3. Redefining Success

Redefined success beyond grades and exams, embracing emotional well-being, personal purpose, and authentic joy as essential outcomes,   

4. Creating Alternatives

Created a transformative alternative to mainstream education, tailored to Paris’s unique needs, values, and aspirations — proving that one size does not fit all

The Bigger Message

Paris’s transformation — from disengaged student to empowered leader — is a living example of what happens when we put student well-being first. It’s a call to educators and parents to listen more, adapt more, and care more. In a time when student mental health is a growing crisis, this story offers hope and a roadmap for change.

A Critical Reflection: What If No One Had Listened?

Had Dr. Lai dismissed Paris’s plea, the outcome could have been tragically different. Like many students trapped in systems that ignore their emotional needs, Paris might have continued suppressing her distress — a path that too often leads to depression, anxiety, or worse.

This is not a hypothetical fear. It is a pressing social concern that demands our attention and compassion.

In Hong Kong, student suicide remains a deeply concerning issue. According to the Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention at the University of Hong Kong, experts have urged schools to become “a happy place” to reduce anxiety and emotional distress. Additionally, a recent report from the South China Morning Post revealed that over 90% of student suicides in Hong Kong over the past five years involved youth aged 12 and above, with contributing factors including poor mental health, academic pressure, and negative interpersonal relationships.

Written By Dr. Lai Mei Kei Vivien