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    The HK HUB
    • What’s On

      What To Do In Hong Kong For Pride Month 2023 This June

      2023-06-06

      What’s On: The Most Exciting Events For All This Month

      2023-06-01

      Rock On: Music Festivals & Concerts In Hong Kong You Need To Attend In 2023

      2023-06-01

      What’s On: The Best Family-Friendly Events This Month

      2023-06-01

      Enjoy Free Sports Carnival At 2023 Olympic Day & Asian Games Fun Run On June 16

      2023-05-31
    • Eat & Drink
      1. Bars
      2. Food
      3. Restaurants
      4. Reviews
      5. View All

      30 Best Bars In Hong Kong To Visit At Least Once

      2023-05-25

      18 Best Coffee Shops In Hong Kong For Good And “Brew-tiful” Cafés

      2023-05-11

      Ginsanity Is Back At PMQ On May 12-13 With Over 100 Gins To Indulge Your Palate

      2023-04-18

      Hong Kong To Host 2023 Asia’s 50 Best Bars Awards Ceremony On July 18

      2023-04-12

      Popular Satay Beef Noodle Restaurant, Very Good Luck Fast Food Shop, To Close On June 1

      2023-05-31

      10 Iconic Hong Kong Street Foods & Where To Eat Them

      2023-05-17

      10 Delectable Doughnut Shops In Hong Kong

      2023-05-09

      10 Best Bagel Shops In Hong Kong You Must Try For A Bite Of Heaven

      2023-05-03

      10 Restaurants In Hong Kong For A Special Celebration This Father’s Day (2023)

      2023-06-06

      Soul Guide, A New Dai Pai Dong Themed Restaurant In Tsim Sha Tsui

      2023-06-05

      Hong Kong’s New Restaurants & Bars You Can’t Miss In June 2023 (Warning: May Lead To Uncontrollable Cravings)

      2023-06-02

      10 Steakhouses In Hong Kong That Are A Cut Above The Rest

      2023-05-31

      Restaurant Review – Modern Chinese Vegetarian at Miss Lee

      2020-03-05

      Restaurant Review: Middle Eastern Brunch at FRANCIS, Wan Chai

      2019-12-04

      Restaurant Review: Hue, Modern Australian with Harbour Views

      2019-11-27

      Review: Micasadeco & Café, Langham Place

      2019-09-20

      10 Restaurants In Hong Kong For A Special Celebration This Father’s Day (2023)

      2023-06-06

      Soul Guide, A New Dai Pai Dong Themed Restaurant In Tsim Sha Tsui

      2023-06-05

      Hong Kong’s New Restaurants & Bars You Can’t Miss In June 2023 (Warning: May Lead To Uncontrollable Cravings)

      2023-06-02

      10 Steakhouses In Hong Kong That Are A Cut Above The Rest

      2023-05-31
    • Lifestyle
      1. Beauty
      2. Fashion
      3. Entertainment
      4. Interviews
      5. Outdoor
      6. Shopping
      7. View All

      15 Amazing Day Spas & Massages You’re Going To Love In Hong Kong

      2022-12-29

      10 Best Hotel Spas In Hong Kong For Luxurious Massages & Spa Packages

      2022-04-26

      Our Review of LifeHub’s IV Drip Treatment For Glowing Skin

      2021-12-09

      Our Review Of EstheClinic’s OXYPURE Oxygenation Facial

      2021-11-18

      20 Plus Size Clothing Shops In Hong Kong For Curvy People

      2023-03-06

      Vipop Founder Lenia Pérez On How The Latin American Eco Fashion Brand Was Born

      2022-12-20

      Hong Kong Fashion Show By Lumiere Runway Hits Haw Par Mansion On 26 Nov (And We Got You 4 VIP Passes)

      2022-11-10

      Vipop Gives Us The Lowdown On Sustainable Fashion & How To Spot Greenwashing

      2022-10-17

      The Next Wave Beach Music: Hong Kong’s First Beach Carnival To Happen In July, With Sea Park, DJs & Yachts For Rent

      2023-05-25

      New York Philharmonic Returns To Hong Kong After 15 Years For Concerts On July 4 & 5

      2023-05-18

      11 Hong Kong Cinemas To Screen BTS Solo Documentaries On June 17 & 18

      2023-05-17

      Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon To Have Solo Show In Hong Kong After 5 Years, On June 10

      2023-05-10

      International Women’s Day 2023: Chinese Entrepreneur Ashley Dudarenok On Gender Equity In China, Hong Kong

      2023-03-02

      International Women’s Day 2023: 8 Women On 8 Dimensions Of Well-being

      2023-03-01

      Vipop Founder Lenia Pérez On How The Latin American Eco Fashion Brand Was Born

      2022-12-20

      “There’s A Lot To Be Done When It Comes To Laws” Protecting Women And Sexual Minorities In Hong Kong, Says SCMP Editor Salomé Grouard

      2022-06-30

      Discover The Greener Side: A Tour Of The Best Parks In Hong Kong

      2023-06-06

      Where To Go Kayaking In Hong Kong This Summer?

      2023-06-02

      20 Best Beaches In Hong Kong, With Gazetted & Non-Gazetted Spots

      2023-06-01

      The Best Cycling Paths & Biking Trails In Hong Kong For Beginners

      2023-04-26

      16 Best Shopping Malls In Hong Kong Every Shopaholic Should Know

      2023-05-24

      Last Chance For Shoppers To Get Free E-Coupons From MTR Malls, On May 24

      2023-05-23

      MTR Malls Will Award Shoppers E-Coupons Worth Up To HK$600 On May 17

      2023-05-16

      MTR Malls To Give Away E-Coupons Worth Up To HK$1,300, Starting May 10

      2023-05-09

      Discover The Greener Side: A Tour Of The Best Parks In Hong Kong

      2023-06-06

      Where To Go Kayaking In Hong Kong This Summer?

      2023-06-02

      20 Best Beaches In Hong Kong, With Gazetted & Non-Gazetted Spots

      2023-06-01

      The Next Wave Beach Music: Hong Kong’s First Beach Carnival To Happen In July, With Sea Park, DJs & Yachts For Rent

      2023-05-25
    • News
      1. Covid Pandemic
      2. Local News
      3. Nature & Science
      4. Society
      5. Sport
      6. View All

      Official: No More Covid Tests When Travelling To Hong Kong From April 1

      2023-04-01

      Hong Kong Drops RAT Tests To Enter Care Homes & Hospitals, From March 25

      2023-03-23

      Only Hong Kong Remains With Outdoor Mask Mandate As Macau Drops The Rule Today

      2023-02-27

      Paul Chan Expects The Recently Extended Mask Mandate To End After Flu Season

      2023-02-24

      MTR Announced New Fares Effective On 25th June & Another “Thank You Day” In August, Offering A 50% Fare Discount

      2023-06-05

      The Third Gourmet Marketplace Opens In Kwun Tong This Weekend (Free Entry)

      2023-06-01

      5 Hong Kong Bus Operators To Increase Fares From June 18

      2023-06-01

      Here Is Where And When To See The Two Giants Ducks In Hong Kong This Year

      2023-06-01

      Kadoorie Farm And Botanic Garden Discovers 8 New Wild Plant Species In Hong Kong

      2023-05-22

      Don’t Miss A Rare Hybrid Solar Eclipse Visible In Hong Kong Skies On April 20

      2023-04-06

      Catch A Ride On NASA’S Longest Mission With New 3D Dome Show At Hong Kong Space Museum

      2023-04-04

      Don’t Miss The Lunar Occultation Of Venus In Hong Kong This March 24, Next Chance In 2063

      2023-03-06

      Hong Kong Now Second Most Expensive City In Asia-Pacific To Buy Private Homes

      2023-05-30

      Hong Kong Households’ Monthly Income Increases by 2.9% To HK$28,300 In 2022

      2023-04-03

      Hongkongers Predict Over 20 Years Of Poor Health In Retirement, Highlighting Need To Plan For The Future

      2023-03-30

      100 Jobs Available On March 29 & Walk-in Recruitment Days Every Thursday At Water World

      2023-03-28

      Hong Kong To Host A Large Joint Marathon In January 2024 With +70000 Runners From 45 Asian Regions

      2023-04-13

      2023 Hong Kong Sevens: Hong Kong’s Women And Men’s Teams Announced

      2023-03-28

      Hong Kong Becomes First Asia-Pacific City To Host The FIA World Rallycross Championship

      2023-03-22

      Eco-Friendly Green Power Hike To Take Place In January 2023

      2022-12-19

      MTR Announced New Fares Effective On 25th June & Another “Thank You Day” In August, Offering A 50% Fare Discount

      2023-06-05

      The Third Gourmet Marketplace Opens In Kwun Tong This Weekend (Free Entry)

      2023-06-01

      5 Hong Kong Bus Operators To Increase Fares From June 18

      2023-06-01

      Here Is Where And When To See The Two Giants Ducks In Hong Kong This Year

      2023-06-01
    • Family
      1. Activities
      2. Education
      3. Kids
      4. Pets
      5. View All

      What’s On: The Best Family-Friendly Events This Month

      2023-06-01

      Book A Free Guided Tour At The Recently Reopened Pokfulam Farm

      2023-05-30

      10 Amazing Summer Camps In 2023 Your Child Or Teen Will Love

      2023-05-13

      Fun Fun Inflatable Water World: Water Park With 4 Giant Slides Reopens In Ma On Shan

      2023-05-12

      ESF To Allow Students To Apply To Any School In Hong Kong (No Zoning Requirement) From August 1

      2023-06-01

      10 Amazing Summer Camps In 2023 Your Child Or Teen Will Love

      2023-05-13

      Hong Kong School’s Summer Study Tour To North Pole Costs A Whopping HK$180,000

      2023-04-04

      End Of Secondary School Daily RATs On March 1, Primary, KGs And Special Schools Continue Till March 15, At Least

      2023-02-22

      Summer Messy Bubble 2023: Fun With Foam, Inflatable Pools & Painting, Only On June 17

      2023-05-29

      Hong Kong Disneyland’s Tarzan Treehouse To Reopen In 2023

      2023-05-23

      Watch 50+ Screenings At The International Children’s & Youth Film Carnival 2023, From July 8-August 19

      2023-05-19

      “World of Frozen” To Open In November As Hong Kong Disneyland Expands Weekly Opening Days Starting Mid-June

      2023-05-15

      2 New Pet-Friendly Gardens Open In Hong Kong At K11 Musea & Tai Yuen Commercial Centre

      2023-05-31

      Dog Dog Shipcation: Unleash The Fun With The First-Ever Dog-Friendly Victoria Harbour Tour On April 29-30

      2023-04-12

      30 Places To Adopt A Pet In Hong Kong, From Dogs, Cats, Rabbits, Birds To Reptiles

      2023-04-12

      Yum Cha With Your Dog? Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour Launches A “Doggy Dim Sum Cart” (And A Dog Hotel)

      2023-03-13

      ESF To Allow Students To Apply To Any School In Hong Kong (No Zoning Requirement) From August 1

      2023-06-01

      What’s On: The Best Family-Friendly Events This Month

      2023-06-01

      2 New Pet-Friendly Gardens Open In Hong Kong At K11 Musea & Tai Yuen Commercial Centre

      2023-05-31

      Book A Free Guided Tour At The Recently Reopened Pokfulam Farm

      2023-05-30
    • Culture

      Tsing Yi Bamboo Theatre Reopens From May 19-23 For Tin Hau Birthday Celebrations

      2023-05-18

      Cheung Chau Bun Scrambling Contest Final To Take Place On May 26

      2023-05-17

      All You Need to Know About Dragon Boat Festival: The Meaning Behind Races & Where To Watch Them In 2023

      2023-05-15

      Man Mo Temple: A Sanctuary For Prayer And Conflict Resolution In Colonial Hong Kong

      2023-04-27

      The Cultural Guide To Buddha’s Birthday Or ‘Bathing Of Buddha’ Festival

      2023-04-24
    • Sustainability

      What Are The Ethical & Environmental Impacts Of Mining Gemstones?

      2023-03-30

      Hong Kong To Begin E-Ferry Trials In 2024

      2023-02-22

      How BIRON® Creates Lab-Grown Gemstones That Rival Natural Gems

      2023-02-20

      Vipop Gives Us The Lowdown On Sustainable Fashion & How To Spot Greenwashing

      2022-10-17

      Greenwashing: How To Distinguish Between Real Sustainability Practices & Marketing Tactics?

      2022-07-11
    • Wellness
      1. Diet
      2. Fitness
      3. Health
      4. View All

      Bust the Belly Fat: Nutrition for Healthy Weight Loss and Maintenance

      2018-02-27

      Hong Kong’s Top Gluten Free Restaurants and Cafés

      2014-12-01

      Fit & Well Festival 2.0 Returns To Central Harbourfront This Summer

      2023-06-02

      New Era Martial Club: Hong Kong’s First Action Stunts Academy Teaches Wire Work, Prop Gun-Handling & Fight Sequences

      2023-04-05

      Fitness + Wellness Expo (FWE) 2023: Hong Kong’s Biggest Fitness Event Returns This May

      2023-03-31

      10 Muay Thai Studios You Should Visit In Hong Kong To Kick The Stress Away

      2022-09-29

      Digital Addiction Diseases: 6 Negative Side Effects Of Using Mobile Phones For A Long Time

      2023-03-27

      The Cultural Guide To Traditional Chinese Medicine, An Ancient System Of Wholistic Health

      2023-02-21

      5 Self-Care Trends To Look Out For In 2023

      2023-01-18

      What Is Occupational, Emotional, And Pandemic Burnout?

      2022-12-19

      Fit & Well Festival 2.0 Returns To Central Harbourfront This Summer

      2023-06-02

      New Era Martial Club: Hong Kong’s First Action Stunts Academy Teaches Wire Work, Prop Gun-Handling & Fight Sequences

      2023-04-05

      Fitness + Wellness Expo (FWE) 2023: Hong Kong’s Biggest Fitness Event Returns This May

      2023-03-31

      Digital Addiction Diseases: 6 Negative Side Effects Of Using Mobile Phones For A Long Time

      2023-03-27
    • Travel
      1. Hotel Reviews
      2. Staycations & Hotels
      3. Travel Guides
      4. Travel To Hong Kong
      5. View All

      Review: Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour Hong Kong

      2022-02-09

      Review: Four Seasons Sayan, Bali

      2018-11-09

      Review: Weekend Escape At The Grand Lapa, Macau

      2015-10-02

      Review: Family Staycation At The Grand Coloane Resort, Macau

      2015-08-19

      20 Best Staycation Package Deals In Hong Kong For Your Next Special Occasion

      2023-02-09

      The Ultimate List Of Hong Kong’s Best 5-Star Hotels, For A Luxury Stay In The City

      2022-07-28

      12 Luxurious 5-Star Hotels In Manila, The Philippines’ Capital Region

      2022-06-08

      8 Best Budget-Friendly Hostels in Hong Kong

      2021-09-13

      What Are The International Covid-19 Testing Requirements For Passengers Departing Hong Kong?

      2023-01-03

      19 Best Travel Destinations To Visit In Asia-Pacific (With Entry Requirement Details)

      2022-10-05

      20 Places To Visit In Singapore And How To Get There

      2022-06-28

      The Traveller’s Guide For Exploring Palawan Island: What To See & What To Do

      2022-05-17

      Cathay To Give Away 450 Tickets To Hong Kong From South Africa, Starting June 6

      2023-05-30

      Hello Hong Kong: How To Get The Free Airline Tickets, Vouchers, Gifts [UPDATED]

      2023-05-29

      Hong Kong Airlines Gives Discounted Round-Trip Tickets From Seoul To HK, Starting May 23

      2023-05-23

      Cathay To Give Away 6,480 Tickets To Hong Kong From Australia & New Zealand Starting May 29

      2023-05-22

      Cathay To Give Away 450 Tickets To Hong Kong From South Africa, Starting June 6

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      Hello Hong Kong: How To Get The Free Airline Tickets, Vouchers, Gifts [UPDATED]

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      Hong Kong Airlines Gives Discounted Round-Trip Tickets From Seoul To HK, Starting May 23

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      Cathay To Give Away 6,480 Tickets To Hong Kong From Australia & New Zealand Starting May 29

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    The HK HUB
    Home»Lifestyle»Interviews»Interviewing 7 Bias-Breaking Women For International Women’s Day
    Interviews

    Interviewing 7 Bias-Breaking Women For International Women’s Day

    Danielle LamBy Danielle Lam2022-03-07Updated:2022-03-09No Comments22 Mins Read
    international women day 2022 interview

    March 8 is International Women’s Day. This year’s theme, #BreakTheBias, is all about working towards a society free of gender stereotypes and discrimination, where differences are known and celebrated. A 2020 study by the UN found that 90% of people have bias towards women. The HK HUB speaks to 7 women who are breaking the biases that give rise to gender inequality, pushing against the harmful prejudices of women’s lack of bodily integrity or that men make better leaders than women as they meaningfully walk their own avenues of life, whether it be in business, teaching, or charity work.

    Content of this article hide
    Ashley Dudarenok — China marketing expert
    Charlotte Tottenham — ImpactHK
    Jing Fang — Body confidence coach
    Lilian Cruz — Domestic worker
    Sarah Anderson — Teacher
    Sarah Vee — Founder of Women of Hong Kong
    Shirley Johnson — Sustainable entrepreneur

    Learn about who these powerful women’s heroines are, what barriers they’ve encountered because of their gender, and their most important advice for other women.

    Ashley Dudarenok — China marketing expert

    Ashley is a renowned China digital expert, entrepreneur, bestselling author. She’s a LinkedIn Top Voice in Marketing with 80,000 followers, a Holmes Report Asia’s Top 25 Innovator, and in 2021, she received the Women Leadership Award by IPWS and was named the Young Business Leader of the Year.

    Ashley is the founder of a China-focused digital marketing agency Alarice and China digital consultancy ChoZan. Her top-rated YouTube vlog covers China’s tech, the Chinese consumers, new retail ecosystems and digital marketing. Ashley is a regular media contributor and has been interviewed by the BBC, the SCMP, Forbes, Bloomberg among others.

    What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

    It’s a day to celebrate women and unity, progress and strengths. In the Soviet Union, where I was born, 8th March was one of the top holidays of the year. People would celebrate women’s achievements in science, sport, work among others. We’d give flowers, cards and gifts to our mothers, teachers and each other, but most importantly that was a day of unity, love and celebration of progress. So it remains in my heart today.

    What barriers or struggles have you experienced as a woman, in life or your career?

    I’m fortunate to never have experienced barriers or struggles because I’m a woman. I had many ups and downs as a person and entrepreneur, but never those I could associate to my gender. Perhaps because I was conditioned to look beyond biases and focus on getting things done, rather than on barriers to getting things done. It’s hard to say. Likely, I’m just very fortunate to be a product of time, culture and upbringing where women were as empowered as men.

    ashley dudarenok in hong kong
    Ashley Dudarenok is an entrepreneur, author, and speaker on digital marketing in China

    What does the idea of female power mean to you?

    Strength and leadership, confidence and creation. In order to lead others, one must first lead herself. If something in your life and business isn’t working, work on yourself first. Any empowerment comes with a fundamental shift towards a better psychology. I find it crucial to teach women, girls, and all humans to use the power of psychology to shape better mindset. Female power is human power. Human power is in the fitness of our mindset and strength of the heart.

    Who is your woman inspiration, and why?

    I’m inspired by men and women alike, by animals, nature, animals and the grandness of the universe. Today I’m particularly inspired by the bravery, strengths and compassion of civilian Ukrainian women.

    What accomplishment are you most proud of?

    Building a successful business that bridges China and the West, empowers its team and brand and consumers we serve. For an entrepreneur, business is her contribution to the world, the way to serve the world on a different scale. I’m grateful and proud to have such a vehicle in my life too.

    What’s the one piece of advice you would give to other women?

    I don’t give advices to others, but if you ask me to share my experiences, the things that helps me most on my business journey are: being unafraid, working on my psychology, doing things faster, being genuine and transparent and having fun along the way.

    Charlotte Tottenham — ImpactHK

    charlotte tottenham impacthk

    Charlotte Tottenham is a former journalist who works for homelessness charity ImpactHK. Her work as a writer, editor and documentary producer – as well as writing a philanthropy column for the Financial Times – has given her an interest in how people’s stories are told. Something she now brings to her work in the social impact space.

    What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

    For me, it should be a day for solidarity and allyship; we have a very long way to go and the more people we can bring into this conversation – however they might identify – the more progress we can make towards equality.

    What barriers or struggles have you experienced as a woman, in life or your career?

    Walking around all the cities I’ve lived in, London, Edinburgh, Delhi, Hong Kong, it has been commonplace to be harassed and heckled. Studies show that people who experience sexism were three times more likely to develop poor mental health over the following years.

    In Hong Kong, it is more systemic; let’s not forget that the gender pay gap in Hong Kong is around 22% and paternity leave is a staggering 5 days. There are times when I find these odds wearing – to simultaneously be held back from succeeding – and other times, when I feel privileged and grateful that my barriers are microscopic in comparison to the vast mountains we placed in front of so many women.

    impacthk teaching self defense homeless empowerment
    ImpactHK works to support and empower Hong Kong’s homeless population

    What does the idea of female power mean to you?

    For me, female power is about using what autonomy and agency you have to advocate and make space for others. It’s also about doing what you can to redress the balance. For example I studied literature in university but the vast majority of our set texts were by male authors – so in 2020 I thought it was about time I absorbed some more female perspectives, and made it my new year’s resolution to only read books by women.

    See also
    11 Out-Of-The-Box Valentine's Day Gifts And Activities For Romantic Couples

    Who is your woman inspiration, and why?

    One of my heroines is a UK firefighter called Sabrina Cohen-Hatton. She actually experienced homelessness in her teens, living on the streets or between hostels for two years. Now she is one of only six female fire chiefs in the UK and uses her work in behavioural neuroscience to help inform better decision-making in the fire service.

    I’m a strong believer in lived experience leadership – after all you cannot be what you cannot see – and I admire that she has become a leading voice in inspiring young women to become firefighters.

    What accomplishment are you most proud of?

    I moved to Hong Kong in 2019 without a job, but with my sights set on working for a homelessness nonprofit called ImpactHK that I had admired from afar. Its ethos really resonated with me and after volunteering for a few months, I persuaded the founder to give me a job. I built my team from the ground up and I’m exceptionally proud of the work we do together to help people overcome the experience of homelessness.

    What’s the one piece of advice you would give to other women?

    Learn about your own unconscious bias – the social stereotypes that form outside your conscious awareness. I consider myself a feminist, but I have still internalised a lot of society’s patriarchal nonsense.

    Women being called bossy can be put down to the phenomenon of ‘likeability bias’, which is based on deep-rooted assumptions. We anticipate that men are going to be more assertive, so when they lead, it feels natural to us. We expect women to be community-minded and kind, so when they assert themselves we like them less. The good news is that when you start to become aware of it, you can unlearn this bias.

    Jing Fang — Body confidence coach

    jing fang authentic energy

    Jing Fang is the founder of Authentic Energy personal transformation & body confidence coaching, focusing on helping women improve physical and mental well-being so they love themselves from the inside out. Born in China, raised in Australia, worked hard and played hard in Hong Kong for 10 years, Jing now lives in Vancouver, Canada.

    After overcoming her own body image struggles, Jing decided to take on a body-positive and holistic coaching approach to empower women to cultivate a sustainable healthy and happy lifestyle, without stressing about diet, body comparison, fear of judgement, and an unhealthy relationship with food.

    What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

    IWD is a day to celebrate women from all backgrounds, our feminine energy, our achievements, and our power. It is a day for us to be extra loud and extra proud of who we are as women, to let more people be aware of women’s significance, that we are as powerful and capable and intelligent as men. In fact, every day is IWD to me, every day I am proud to be a woman, proud of other women in this world. Why do we only celebrate women that one day of the year?

    What barriers or struggles have you experienced as a woman, in life or your career?

    In my teenage years I was always told by male teachers or friends that I was too bold in expressing my opinions. As an Asian woman, people expected me to be conservative and keep my opinions to myself. When I was in a long term relationship in my 20s, I played small and never spoke of my needs and wants, afraid my boyfriend would leave me. The more insecure I became, the more disrespect I got. As a fitness coach, with the pressure of always having six pack abs, I struggled with serious body image issues which affected me emotionally, and I developed an unhealthy eating behavior.

    jing fang fitness coach
    Jing overcame the body image struggles associated with being a woman and fitness coach

    What does the idea of female power mean to you?

    Female power means being a graceful and gentle warrior. Power doesn’t necessarily mean that we have to dominate and be ready to fight all the time. It is the ability to be strong and confident, and also have that unique feminine tenderness and calmness to balance everything. It’s about having that beautiful Yin-Yang harmony. 

    Who is your woman inspiration, and why?

    My mother, without a doubt! She raised me by herself, and she never complained a word during hardship, always showing me how to live life to the fullest and explore the world whenever you can. She has travelled to more than 40 countries, and not even Covid can stop her!  I am so grateful that I have a mother who is also my best friend, who introduced me to personal development at a young age and taught me how to be emotionally and financially independent. Her lessons always stay with me, and she is the reason why I am never afraid of changes or moving my life to another country.

    What accomplishment are you most proud of?

    I’d have to say it’s allowing myself to change my career direction because I trusted my gut feeling and I wanted to be aligned with my mission and vision, instead of following what everyone else was doing, or what people expected from me.

    What’s the one piece of advice you would give to other women?

    #OODM! You will see this hashtag in my community and social media a lot. It stands for Other’s Opinions Don’t Matter. Learning how to not care about what other people think about you is such a crucial lesson for all women, because we tend to care too much about what others think of us! As a result of caring too much about what other people say about us, we give our power away, we stop being authentic and real, we start to people-please! The first step to reclaiming your power, and stepping up your confidence is to stop caring about what other people think of you. Next time when you catch yourself saying “I’m afraid that people are gonna think….” just close your eyes and say “OODM”.

    Lilian Cruz — Domestic worker

    lilian cruz domestic worker hong kong

    Lilian Cruz is a foreign domestic worker from the Philippines who has lived in Hong Kong for over 30 years. During this time, she has worked for two families for 16 and 18 years respectively, raising their children and caring for their elderly members, while supporting her own family back home. Her daughter has now successfully immigrated to Canada.

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    What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

    I believe that this day commemorates all the sacrifices and suffering of women throughout time while also recognizing the efforts of women today. All year round there are certain holidays for certain causes and it is nice knowing there is a day dedicated to us, to learn about and also be celebrated for our successes and achievements.

    What barriers or struggles have you experienced as a woman, in life or your career?

    As women, we are always underestimated and perceived by society as inferior beings. We are judged worse or put in a double standard. But the worst experience I have been put through is not being taken seriously. We are constantly being talked over as if we cannot form opinions that can be respected. When we get upset, we are told we are overreacting. But I’ve realized we don’t need the approval of men or other people to feel validated.

    What does the idea of female power mean to you?

    Women’s power is having the ability to give birth to a new life. Women’s power is when a woman no longer feels that ‘she is just a girl’. When her existence is not determined by how well she outperforms men. When she no longer needs to prove that she can do everything that men can do. When her existence is independently whole in herself. God has given a lot of power to women.

    Who is your woman inspiration, and why?

    The most inspiring woman of my life is, of course, my mother. It is my mother who never left my hand no matter how angry, depressed, or hopeless I was. She held me, cried with me, and loved me at my worst. She never got irritated even if I kept crying one whole day, one whole month, one whole year. She is the reason why I have a positive outlook in life and fight to be better every day. I know every mother is the greatest warrior for her children, and my mother is the best example of it.

    What accomplishment are you most proud of?

    I am most proud that I was able to raise my two children on my own. Despite a lot of hardships I faced in life, and being far away from each other, we have built a lifelong relationship with each other that is priceless and that I will always treasure.

    What’s the one piece of advice you would give to other women?

    To always believe that you can do better every day. Improving is an everyday struggle but we are in control of how we live. We should always think of the positive side to lessen overthinking or heartaches. After all, we are women. We adjust, build, and maintain. We should be proud of our achievements and always strive to be happy.

    Sarah Anderson — Teacher

    sarah anderson teacher hong kong

    Sarah Anderson came to Hong Kong from Minnesota, USA 6 ½ years ago. A teacher at an international school who has sent a majority of the last two years teaching virtually because of the pandemic, on the weekends you’re likely to see her on a hiking trail or jumping into a waterfall, having conquered the entire MacLehose Trail in three months – and you’re unlikely to see her without an iced coffee.

    What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

    International Women’s Day to me is a special day to remember where we came from as women, and look forward to where we want to go in the future. It’s a day to celebrate as well, all the wonderful women around us, who have been there to support us.

    What barriers or struggles have you experienced as a woman, in life or your career?

    I think mental health has been one of my biggest struggles in life. My anxiety stems from a place of caring too much about certain things that I can’t control. However, I also see this as a place of strength that I am brave enough to feel compassion this deeply for people.

    What does the idea of female power mean to you?

    Female power to me means being able to express yourself and feel comfortable and proud of who you are as a woman.

    Who is your woman inspiration, and why?

    I look up to Malala. I read her story a couple of years ago, and really admire how she was brave enough to fight for her education, even though it got quite dangerous for her at some points along the way. As a teacher I really value education, and believe it is essential for everyone to get a good education regardless of their gender.

    What accomplishment are you most proud of?

    I am most proud of the fact that I had the chance to teach all of the children I have taught in these past 6 ½ years. I am a kindergarten teacher, and I really love being able to teach children how to be kind to others, how to communicate with others, how to solve problems, and how to be a good leader. Some of the proudest moments in my life are when I see my students getting along well their classmates, helping each other out if another student is struggling, comforting or helping another student who is sad, etc.

    What’s the one piece of advice you would give to other women?

    Don’t be afraid to just be yourself, and love yourself. I spent a lot of my early twenties trying to wear the perfect outfit, and meet a cute guy on a night out with friends. All that time and effort never really paid off. I met my husband volunteering and doing something that I love – helping people. Now we are helping people side by side, and he loves me for who I am, not what I look like on the outside.

    Sarah Vee — Founder of Women of Hong Kong

    sarah vee women of hong kong

    Sarah Vee is a Filipino solo-parent who founded Women of Hong Kong in 2021, a community of over 3,500 women that encourages members to connect, collaborate and create a safe and supportive space where women can thrive.

    What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

    The power we hold as women when we embrace what we’re truly capable of. We’re multifaceted – there’s so much proof in the past decade of what women have accomplished! International Women’s Day is an opportunity for us to reflect on that and inspire others to reach our highest potential.

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    What barriers or struggles have you experienced as a woman, in life or your career?

    I would never change anything about being a single mother, however I would encourage others to be more mindful and inclusive of solo parents at work and social circles. We carry a unique set of responsibilities. I don’t have the capacity to stay ‘overtime’ at work or attend Sunday brunch, but that doesn’t mean I don’t care to!

    What does the idea of female power mean to you?

    Women are more likely to be intuitive, creative, and integrative with a heightened emotional radar – the power comes with realizing that these traits can be our biggest advantage! Empathy is powerful, and I believe it can change the world.

    Who is your woman inspiration, and why?

    Sara Blakely because of her positivity, consistency and grit. (Editor’s note: Blakely is an American businesswoman who founded Spanx.) Embarrassment is the cost of entry, she paid the price in her early years and wasn’t afraid to look like a fool to get to where she is today. Also, I absolutely love how she treats the people within her business!

    women of hong kong event
    Women of Hong Kong brings 3,500 women together to make meaningful personal and business connections

    What accomplishment are you most proud of?

    Aside from my amazing 11-year-old boy and launching Women of Hong Kong, I’m proud of the level of self-awareness I’ve acquired in the last two years. I’m much more mindful about how I live my life, my shortcomings, and accepting what’s within my control. This has allowed me to reflect on my behaviors that influence my son’s growth, which is top priority. 

    What’s the one piece of advice you would give to other women?

    Breathe and let it go if it’s not within your control. Think of solutions and possibilities instead of spiraling into the “bad news” – it’ll save you the stress!

    Shirley Johnson — Sustainable entrepreneur

    shirley johnson entrepreneur

    Shirley Johnson is CEO and artistic director of eco-friendly lifestyle brands Resolar and A New Leaf, founder of Radiance Within professional coaching services for women and pre- and post-natal mothers, and award-winning author of titles like “Cancer I Forgive You”, a story about the mindset shift Shirley had to make to reach a point of forgiveness and healing after her son’s brain cancer diagnosis in 2020.

    What does International Women’s Day mean to you?  

    It means that a big gap when it comes to equality between men and women remains. Hence such a day still has its raison d’être. Men and women aren’t the same, in many senses. However, both men and women ought to be given equal opportunities to allow their potential to maximise. And each individual, whether female or male, should be encouraged to shine as bright as possible.

    What barriers or struggles have you experienced as a woman, in life or your career?

    I majored in Japanese when I was at university. I started my working life with one of the top Japanese corporations in the world. I witnessed how a senior female manager was expected to serve tea at a meeting, while her junior male colleague fast-tracked his career and went to become her superior within one and a half years of my working there. Then when I became a mother, I realised that there was a serious inequal expectation between parents. Everything a father does for a child is a merit, while that by a mother is a given.

    What does the idea of female power mean to you?

    I think many people have a misconception about women empowerment. Many assume it is to put a female into a leadership role. Or help a female to build a career such that she is financially as ‘powerful’ as her male counterparts. To me, the ultimate ’empowerment’ is to gift her the belief that “she is enough” and she “deserves” just simply by being “her”.  In many cultures, still, just being born as a girl remains a ‘curse’ to her family. This is the kind of ’empowerment’ I am determined to gift my daughter, such that she will never have to seek external sources or ‘power’ to fill that void, because the power lies within her.

    Who is your woman inspiration, and why?

    Louise Hay, the motivational author of “Heal Your Body” and “You Can Heal Your Life” that has sold over 40 millions copies to date. I feel related to her as we both had very similar tough childhoods. I particularly find people inspiring when they rose from a place with no one to support, love, and believe in them but themselves. Her teachings about self-love have changed my life for the best. She left such a legacy, helping others to heal themselves, body, soul, and mind even long after she’s passed.  She inspired me to become a transformational coach. Like her, I want to help my clients heal the past and build a future they truly desire and deserve.

    What accomplishment are you most proud of?

    I remember very well how embarrassed and sad I felt at school whenever teachers asked us to bring baby and family photos to build a family tree. Because I had none. I did not know how I looked like as a baby, and the fact that no one loved me saddened me. To go from that to entirely embrace and love myself was the most challenging thing I’ve done to date and I am proud of it. Because of my capability to love myself, I was able to remain calm during my son’s brain cancer journey, relieved myself from the guilt that all parents in our situation would have, such that I could focus on my son’s and my own well-being during such difficult time.

    What’s the one piece of advice you would give to other women?

    The only opinion that matters is our own. Many women are consumed with worries about how others see them or what others would think of them. A very good example is the way they dress. I worked in the luxury industry for a decade, never managing to save a dime because I spent much on maintaining the glamourous façade I thought I had to keep up to hold my job. But in hindsight, nobody cared, because I did not care what my colleagues wore to work at all. The idea of others judging us buds from our own very mind.

    Header image credits: Priscilla Du Preez via Unsplash

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    Born in Canada, Danielle is deep diving into the things that make Hong Kong a city of intermingling identities, and bridging the information gap as someone trying to navigate the city herself as a cultural inbetweener. Sometimes this means examining culture and local people’s stories, and other times it means drinking all the milk tea and doing walking explorations of peripheral districts.

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