As part of WAB's 30th Anniversary, a special prize was created to celebrate the achievements of WAB students and staff who embody the attributes of the Profiles of WAB Alumni.  

27 applications were submitted. This series of articles aims to highlight and honor the achievements of all applicants. The remarkable stories and powerful evidence of their learning journeys at WAB showcased so many of the attributes of the WAB Alumni Profile.  

This week we will start with the Student Award Winners: 

Jeremy Azzopardi 

As a student at WAB since 2010, Jeremy submitted an application that highlighted his attributes as a WAB learner through his diverse and impactful actions. His learning and commitment to a sustainable future were shown through his water quality assessment in Beijing during the COVID period and his proposed solar roof design for the school. He has engaged in significant learning beyond the curriculum, connecting his passions for sustainability and advocacy, with his work was featured as part of Global Online Academy’s Catalyst Conference. He has shown innovation and leadership in co-founding the WAB Precious Plastic Club, and through this volunteer work at the China Cultural Center in Malta, he has used his language skills to deepen intercultural understanding.  
 
Jeremy’s leadership and advocacy work was clear throughout his application and his ability to think and communicate clearly, critically, and creatively is highlighted by his involvement in co-organizing and presenting at TEDxYouth at WAB and through multiple engagements, service, and advocacy projects within and beyond WAB.  

"I am enormously grateful to WAB for this Award, and for all that this institution has done to shape who I am today. After 15 years, I look forward to continue advancing the values of the 'Profile of WAB Alumni' beyond High School. I have learned to never be afraid to make a difference, and to have the courage to dream, and to dream big," expressed Jeremy.  

Hannah Tang  

Through her application, Hannah used stories of her experiences to illustrate how she embodied the attributes of a WAB learner. She has demonstrated a deep curiosity and passion for learning that is driven by asking questions, seeking answers, and enjoying the process of discovery. She showcased her innovative spirit through her example of developing an AI-powered app to address depression that enables individuals with similar symptoms to engage in group conversations.  

An accomplished and community-minded dancer and storyteller, Hannah’s China-Global connectedness and desire to make a difference was told through her story of working with orphans in Beijing and teaching them dance as well as her narrative of making dance at WAB more collaborative and inclusive as the leader of the APAC Dance Team and Dance Club. Hannah shared how her TEDx speech on science versus religion used storytelling and metaphors to foster understanding as a great example of communicating complex ideas clearly and fostering a deeper understanding?of the topic. 

"At the beginning of 10th grade, I read a book written by famous physicist Richard Feynman. He taught me how to play with physics, how to see the beauty of physics, and how to be humble. I now apply the same principles when learning everything. Ask, think, and find out, desiring to understand the beauty of our world," said Hannah.  

Eloise Wester 

Eloise demonstrated the attributes of a WAB learner by showing resilience and self-directed learning by overcoming language barriers when transitioning to WAB in Grade 6. One example shared was how she used Khan Academy to re-learn key material in English, and this was a habit that supported her learning through middle school. 

A black belt in Taekwondo, student council member, co-leader of the World Scholar’s Cup, and an accomplished musician, Eloise has shown her skills as a future-ready innovator with her effective use of AI for task optimization. Her actions towards social innovation, service, and apprenticeship show her dedication to caring and connecting members of our community and the world beyond. An example includes her organization of the Battle of the Bands event where she connected with and learned from industry experts as well as raised money for early childhood education. Eloise shared multiple examples of her deep intercultural competence, her engagement in many community initiatives, and how she has promoted community well-being through initiatives like "Little Acts of Kindness".  

“I’m so honored to be a recipient of this award. It’s truly motivated me to continue to find ways to contribute to this amazing community,” Eloise stated.

Stay tuned to this series as we share more highlights from all the Profiles of WAB Alumni Awards applicants.