The HKBU Foundation records with deepest sorrow the passing of Dr. Rafael Aharoni, BBS, Honorary Director of the HKBU Foundation, on 11 June 2024. 

Born in Israel and educated in the United States, Dr. Aharoni embarked on his entrepreneurial journey at an early age, focusing on the manufacture, import and export of diamonds. He first visited Hong Kong for business in 1969, and eventually moved to the city permanently in 1989.

As Chairman of the Israeli Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong for over two decades, Dr. Aharoni made significant contributions to fostering trade and development between Israel and Hong Kong, Macau, and Mainland China. His strong commitment to charity and community service was evident through his leadership roles in various non-profit and humanitarian organisations, including the Rotary Club, and ZAKA Search and Rescue. In recognition of his valuable contributions, Dr. Aharoni was awarded the Bronze Bauhinia Star (BBS) by the HKSAR Government in 2012.

Dr. Aharoni was also a long-time friend of HKBU. Since 2016, he made multiple generous donations to support the University’s international student exchange programmes, enabling students to broaden their horizons and build self-confidence through overseas learning opportunities.

The Foundation conveys its heartfelt condolences to Dr. Aharoni’s family at this time of bereavement. He will be remembered for his remarkable contributions to both the University and Hong Kong.