CB students to represent Hong Kong in National Tax Competition

Two final year students from the Department of Accountancy won the First and Second Prizes in the EY's Young Tax Professional of the Year 2016 (Hong Kong). The event was organised by Ernst & Young (EY), one of the largest international professional networks offering audit, assurance, tax, and corporate finance services.

Phoebe Yip Yan Yi and Ivan Chau Chun Hei, named the First Prize and Second Prize respectively, showcasing their extensive knowledge and understanding on both the Hong Kong and international tax systems during the competition. Out of the 110 semi-finalists from 10 institutions from Hong Kong and Macau, Phoebe and Ivan were among the eight contestants who were selected for individual presentation in the final round. Their outstanding performance much impressed the panel of judges and brought them the top two honours.

Phoebe said, “It is a good opportunity to consolidate my tax‐related knowledge. Now, I am more confident to start my career as a tax accountant after this contest.”

Ivan highlighted the challenges in the competition, “The debate was the most challenging part to me. I had to study a wide range of taxation topics and analyse local tax issues beforehand, and to prepare a speech to present the topic. It needed to be done articulately and thoughtfully.”

Both students would like to express their deep gratitude to their advisors Dr Raymond Wong, Assistant Professor, and Mr David Yip, Senior Teaching Fellow of the Department of Accountancy, who gave them assistance and advice throughout the competition. The students were grateful to their advisors’ guidance in delivering professional speeches and presentations.

“Dr Wong and Mr Yip were very supportive to me. They have been giving me lots of encouragement on study and career planning,” said Phoebe.

Phoebe and Ivan are going to represent Hong Kong in a national competition which will be held in Shanghai in April. They will compete with other winners from the mainland China and Taiwan, and will have the chance to participate in the international round if they win in the national competition. We wish them all the best in their competition!

The EY competition aims to identify young talents with a passion for tax issues. The contest can enhance professional skills and develop careers, and presents an opportunity for participants to share experiences with people from a range of backgrounds and cultures.