Hong Kong is known for its vibrant cultural life, from theatre and dance performances to music performances and art displays. Each year, the city also plays host to many prestigious international events like the Hong Kong Film Awards (HKFA), one of the premier film prizes in Asia. These awards are judged by local film workers, critics and an independent group of adjudicators from across Asia; winners are decided upon through popular vote. To keep this award at its high standard level for more than ten years running, its organizers have doubled the prize money twice since 2000 – helping it remain at this level of excellence!
The Hong Kong Film Awards (HKFA), established in 1993, is one of the world’s first professional film awards organised by Chinese filmmakers. Award winners are decided upon by representatives from thirteen professional film bodies across Hong Kong; winners are usually announced around April. Since 2010, lottery ticket prices have been raised from $5 to HK$10 to double minimum first prizes while simultaneously maintaining first prize funds through offering lottery jackpots as an attraction factor for players and to sustain funds for future awards ceremonies.
China Daily emerged victorious this year at the awards, garnering 17 accolades across all categories, its highest ever total and far outstripping its closest competitors. China Daily senior business reporter Zhang Tianyuan won best business news writing (English), while Luo Weiteng received first runner-up for his analysis of how US Federal Reserve rate cuts affect Hong Kong stock markets and economies. Lesley Liu Xiaohan made history by becoming the first Hong Kong woman ever to claim Champion Short News Video honors with her piece Shared Changing, Shared Future that depicted how young Chinese travellers changed travel habits in Malaysia over time.
Breaking news photography won the Pulitzer Prize again this year, including an image depicting an injured man being attacked by masked anti-government protesters in China. Chinese netizens criticized the jury committee for awarding pictures that stigmatize and denigrate China, and claimed this prize would have gone to it had it been taken in the US instead.
Generocity is hosting a competition in response to recent terrorist attacks in Paris and Brussels to solicit innovative ideas on how Hong Kong can advance global development work and shape its role within “one country, two systems”. The winning idea will receive a grant of HK$5,000; find out more by visiting here.