Event Highlight | Funder Insights Webinar Series: Lee Hysan Foundation (30 July 2025)

Cecilia introduced Lee Hysan Foundation’s background, guiding principles, funding approach, and some impactful projects led by CUHK professors during the webinar. (Photo: Social Innovation Team) 

The recent session of the Funder Insights Webinar Series, spotlighting Lee Hysan Foundation, drew nearly 90 attendees, underscoring the strong interest in this highly informative webinar.

The session featured an engaging presentation by Ms Cecilia Ho, President of Lee Hysan Foundation, who shared the Foundation’s guiding principles, funding approach, and a selection of impactful projects led by CUHK professors. Her talk also delved into the Foundation’s philosophy on social impact measurement, offering a comprehensive view of its commitment to driving meaningful social change.

Cecilia showcased a variety of projects spearheaded by CUHK academics and researchers, demonstrating how Lee Hysan Foundation supports knowledge transfer and social innovation across diverse domains such as arts, sciences, and education. Among the highlights were the contributions of S-KPF-funded professors who have forged impactful partnerships with the Foundation. Notable figures include Prof Gladys Tang, founder of SLCO Community Resources, Prof Agnes Chan, founder of Pro-Talent, and Prof Tan Lee, founder of Vocofy.AI. All of them have collaborated with the Foundation to create substantial social impact through their initiatives.

The interactive Q&A session proved to be a standout moment, with many participants eagerly raising questions. Participants showed keen interest in the co-creation and stakeholder engagement embedded in the Foundation’s partnerships and funded projects, as well as its perspective on social impact.

Cecilia took the opportunity to highlight that Lee Hysan Foundation employs a unique ‘formula’ for impact measurement, tailored to the nature and features of each project rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach. She explained that this method incorporates both qualitative and quantitative indicators, developed in discussion with project teams to identify the most effective measurements that reflect the social impact of their work.

This webinar underscored the strong synergy between CUHK and Lee Hysan Foundation, reinforcing their shared mission to advance social innovation. Interested individuals can view the full webinar recording at this link. As we continue to facilitate such platforms, the webinar opened new avenues for academics and social innovators to explore funding opportunities and amplify their contributions to society.

For CUHK academics and researchers aiming to transform their research into tangible impact, Social Innovation Team is offering Impact Consultation sessions. Whether you’re conceptualising a new project or enhancing an existing one, we’re here to help you explore funding opportunities, connect with potential partners, and turn your research into real-world impact. Reserve your session here.

Prof Suzanne So from the Department of Psychology wasengageing Cecilia with a thoughtful question in the Q&A session. (Photo: Social Innovation Team)

Details: https://www.orkts.cuhk.edu.hk/en/news-events/announcements/event-highlight-funder-insights-webinar-series-lee-hysan-foundation-30-july-2025