The historic halls of St Peter’s College, University of Oxford, buzzed with inspiration as 27 Hong Kong Jockey Club Scholars (JC Scholars) embarked on their journey with the Oxford Character Project as part of the Oxford Character and Leadership Programme. From January 4th to 10th, 2025, they participated in a bespoke programme designed to be more than a leadership course–it was a call to action for developing a lifelong commitment to character. Through a blend of thought-provoking lectures, hands-on workshops, and daily reflective practices, the programme challenged the JC Scholars to deepen their self-awareness, identify their character strengths and areas for improvement, and go beyond their comfort zones. As one of the scholars shared, “This program has profoundly transformed my outlook on life. Reflecting on my values, strengths, and weaknesses has aligned my actions with my core beliefs, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling life.”
Central to this transformation was a wide range of sessions covering topics such as “Good Leadership”, led by Dr Edward Brooks (Executive Director, Oxford Character Project), and “Leadership and Power,” conducted by Melissa Jones Briggs (Lecturer, Stanford Graduate School of Business), which provided fresh perspectives on navigating influence and authority. Dr Michael Lamb’s (F.M. Kirby Foundation Chair of Leadership and Character, Wake Forest University)) insightful discussion on “Questions of Character and Leadership” encouraged participants to appreciate the nuances of character leadership and adopt practices that work for them. Additionally, drawing from her experience coaching Rhodes Scholars, Professor Doyin Atewologun (CEO and Founder of Delta) offered practical insights to support students in their leadership development. Dr Corey Crossan’s (Research and Teaching Fellow, Oxford Character Project) workshops motivated participants to adopt a growth mindset by integrating key character virtues into their leadership journey. With a strong focus on temperance, integrity, and humanity, these sessions provided actionable strategies to help scholars achieve their personal and professional goals while embodying impactful leadership. As a scholar reflected, “Before the program, I thought character was fixed, something you either had or didn’t. Now I know that character can be developed with intention, reflection, and consistent effort. This realisation has motivated me to address my shortcomings and grow.”
These interactive sessions were further complemented by engaging workshops, such as a series of improvisation exercises conducted by the Oxford Imps. Through the exercises, scholars learned to embrace spontaneity and be resilient in the face of uncertainty. The scholars also participated in a public speaking workshop at the Oxford Union, where public speaking coach Simon Bucknall introduced techniques to enhance their communication skills as leaders, immersing them in the Union’s legacy of challenging perspectives and inspiring change.
The programme wasn’t confined to the classroom; it used the unique history of Oxford as a dynamic backdrop to explore pressing questions of leadership. A multimedia-guided tour of Christ Church College delved into Oxford’s tradition of shaping world leaders. Adding a critical perspective, the “Uncomfortable Oxford” tour challenged scholars to confront the city’s complex history and issues of power, inequality, and ethics. Finally, guided tours of iconic Oxford landmarks like the Ashmolean Museum and the Bodleian Library brought the university’s rich history to life, offering a glimpse into centuries of intellectual and cultural legacy. Through these enrichment activities, the city of dreaming spires became an integral part of the programme, sparking curiosity at every turn.
An Oxford trip isn’t complete without the quintessential experience of formal college dinners, and the programme ensured that scholars embraced this tradition. Formal dinners at St Peter’s College, St Edmund Hall, Brasenose College, and Harris Manchester College allowed scholars to engage with distinguished guests, including Professor Tim Soutphommasane and Revd Dr Jonathan Brant, who shared their invaluable insights on life and leadership. These gatherings also fostered a sense of community, as the scholars connected with Graduate JC scholars and learned about their experiences of studying at Oxford.
The programme not only encouraged scholars to view leadership as a lifelong journey grounded in character, but it also provided them with the mindset and strategies to develop their character virtues. By emphasising the central role of character in leadership, it inspired participants to strive toward becoming wise thinkers and good leaders who bring meaningful change within their communities. As one JC Scholar thoughtfully concluded, “I now view my life not just as a quest for personal success but as an opportunity to positively impact others and contribute to the greater good.”