As Hong Kong students receive their 2025 Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) exam results today, McDonald’s Hong Kong is rolling out its largest-ever DSE Student Party to help ease the pressure.
Running from July 15 to July 20 at The Wai in Tai Wai, the event comes in response to growing concerns about student stress levels. A recent survey by Hok Yau Club found that over 80 percent of this year’s DSE candidates are experiencing higher stress than last year, with uncertainty about future career paths being their biggest worry.
As one of Hong Kong's largest youth employers, McDonald's Hong Kong is committed to nurturing talent. Ms. Randy Lai, CEO of McDonald’s Hong Kong hosts a private session for DSE employees, demonstrating the company's strong support.
A fun-filled escape for students
The six-day carnival offers students a much-needed break with interactive game booths, a McDonald’s-themed graduation photo zone, and a basketball shooting challenge.
Participants who complete all six game booths can redeem a free Big Mac via the McDonald’s app, while supplies last.
To further address student anxieties, Hok Yau Club has set up an on-site booth where social workers provide personalized counseling on stress management and career planning.
Adding to the lively atmosphere, local band ROVER, made up of DSE alumni, took the stage as "DSE Support Team Captains," sharing their post-exam experiences and lifting spirits with energetic performances.
Mr. Kevin Kam, McDonald's Hong Kong Chief People Officer, delivers a motivational speech to a group of McDonald's DSE employees before the event.
Mr. Leung Kwok Shing, Executive Director of Hok Yau Club, alongside two distinguished graduates from McDonald's Hong Kong's 'Professional Diploma in Management Development (Qualification Framework Level 5)' program, delivered insightful sharings, offering valuable strategies for managing stress and exploring alternative pathways beyond traditional academic pursuits.
Exclusive support for McDonald’s DSE employees
Ahead of the public event, McDonald’s hosted an exclusive preview party for over 100 of its DSE student employees, giving them a chance to unwind before their results are released.
The gathering featured career-inspired games and motivational talks from McDonald’s leadership, including CEO Randy Lai, who reinforced the company’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
Lai stated that as one of Hong Kong's largest youth employers, they are committed to their philosophy of 'McDonald’s Means Opportunities'.
She emphasized their dedication to offering rewarding career paths to DSE graduates and warmly invited all students to join their McFamily and grow with the company.
Career growth at McDonald’s
For those considering their next steps, McDonald’s offers manager trainee positions with a starting monthly salary of HK$17,500 and a flexible five-day workweek.
The company’s "Professional Diploma in Management Development" (QF Level 5) program enables ambitious employees to fast-track their careers, with the potential to become a restaurant general manager in just 30 months—while earning a qualification equivalent to a bachelor’s degree. Since its launch in 2023, 270 managers have successfully completed the fully sponsored program.
The career growth opportunities at McDonald’s are exemplified by employees like Kelly Ho, now a restaurant general manager at IFC Mall, who started as a part-time crew member at 18 and became the youngest manager in her district by age 20.
Another inspiring figure is Jacky Chan, a 25-year McDonald’s veteran who oversees 250 employees at Admiralty Centre and credits the company’s leadership training for his long-term success.
Extended recruitment and special food deals
To further assist students in their job search, McDonald’s will convert five of its restaurants into special recruitment centers from July 21 to July 31, offering on-site personality assessments to help candidates find roles that match their strengths.
In addition to career support, McDonald’s is helping students stay positive with limited-time HK$1 food deals available on the McDonald’s App until July 18, including a $1 Apple Pie with any Extra Value Meal, a $1 McCafé Americano, and a $1 Big Fanta.
