Alysha Bibi’s Story
Faculty of Social Sciences
BJ

Alysha Bibi proved that journalism can be a force for change. Pursuing a double major in Journalism and Geography, she bridges storytelling with real-world action - channelling her academic rigour into tangible advocacy for global peace.

In 2024, Alysha was selected as one of the top seven HKU students to attend the 3rd Global Peace Summit organised by the Humanitarian Affairs Asia at the United Nations in Bangkok. The summit addressed critical global issues, including the Israel-Hamas conflict and genocides in Cambodia and Rwanda. This experience motivated her to bring peacebuilding discussions to more students in Hong Kong.

Alysha (fourth from the right) alongside keynote speakers from the 4th Global Peace Summit.

Shortly after the summit, Alysha joined the organisation, kickstarting her six-month placement as a Global Peace Associate in Bangkok, Thailand. She was chosen from 500 global candidates and expressed that it was a real honour and privilege to represent Hong Kong internationally. As the youngest intern in the organisation’s incredibly diverse team, she worked to engage Hong Kong undergraduate students in partaking in peace talks, reaching out to local universities and youth organisations. She also volunteered at underprivileged schools in Bangkok, teaching English while integrating lessons on the UN Sustainable Development Goals—empowering students with both language skills and global awareness.

Alysha with her students while volunteering at a primary school under the Thai Ministry of Education.

Reflecting on her journey, Alysha emphasises that small actions can create big impacts. What are her top two pieces of advice for young people? “It's okay to start small. Growth comes from daring to try, even if you stumble, because every attempt teaches you something. The real failure isn’t falling short; it’s staying stagnant, refusing to move forward.” She also advises, “Find a good mentor—it can take you far.” a lesson she learned from Sir Peter Mathieson, former HKU president, who spoke at the 12th University Scholars Leadership Symposium organised by the Humanitarian Affairs Asia.

Alysha (second from the right in the back row) with the Humanitarian Affairs Asia team.

Alysha’s story is a testament to the power of youth leadership in fostering global understanding and change. With her drive and compassion, she continues to inspire others to take meaningful steps and further her work in the humanitarian field.

Written by:
Alan Lim
Year 5, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine
April 2025