Jonathan Frichot
Faculty of Social Sciences
BASc 2026
Jonathan Frichot (BASc 2026) is a First Class Honours graduate of the Faculty of Social Sciences, holding a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences with majors in Interdisciplinary Studies and Music. Originally from Mauritius and awarded the HKU Scholarship for Future Leaders, he has long balanced the arts and sciences as a composer, performer, conductor, dancer and sustainability advocate. His capstone explored how sound experiences in nature deepen environmental connection, His university years included serving as an HKU Ambassador, being the Head of Dance of Astréas, winning the inaugural Doming Lam Composition Prize, with “One Voice” premiered by the HKU Chamber Singers.
Most valuable lesson from your time at HKU?
My most memorable lesson is to hold on to my dreams and fight for them, because no one else will. I realised this on exchange, and since returning to Hong Kong I have actively created my own opportunities. That mindset led to the first HKU Doming Lam Composition Prize, conducting an ensemble, and joining the Percussion Ensemble. Pushing past my fear of recording a short video also opened the door to becoming an MC for ReThink HK, while sharing my passion for music secured the role of musical director for the HKU Mentorship Kickoff Ceremony two years running. These experiences taught me that my proudest achievements come from simply having the courage to try.
Tell us how has HKU shaped you as a person
HKU taught me how to lead with character and showed me that I already have what I need within myself. When I first arrived, I wondered whether a small islander could leave a mark in such a big place. Over time I grew more confident in who I am, a realisation deepened by joining the first cohort of Lead4Life. The programme taught me that leadership does not require changing myself; it begins with understanding my uniqueness, strengths and flaws. Knowing myself better gave me the confidence to lead my own life and others, and the assurance that I can overcome whatever comes my way.
The most important thing I discovered about myself during my time at HKU is...
"that I am capable of more than I think"