Cover Beatrice Ho with her mother Daisy and grandmother Lucina (Photo: courtesy of Ho)

As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to celebrate the women who have shaped our lives. Tatler spoke to members of the community, including Jasmine Yen, Ayla Sham and Elva Ni, who shared heartfelt tributes to the leading ladies in their lives—we have to admit, some of them left us a little misty-eyed

To commemorate Mother’s Day, Tatler invited six influential members of our community to share heartfelt tributes to their mothers. Breaking away from the clichés, we sought genuine, honest reflections that capture the unique and profound relationship between daughters and their mothers. The result is a collection of quotes that beautifully conveys the impact their mums have had on their lives. On behalf of all of us here at Tatler, Happy Mother’s Day—to those who are mothers, who have lost mothers and to those who yearn to be mothers. 

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Jasmine Yen, singer-songwriter

Tatler Asia
Above Jasmine Yen with her mother Cissy (Photo: courtesy of Jasmine Yen)

“My mum is renowned for her surprises. I remember when I was eight years old, my mum surprised me by taking me on the [Taiwanese airline Eva Air] Hello Kitty aeroplane. I thought it was the coolest experience. The walls and interior of the aeroplane were pink and the meal came in the shape of Hello Kitty. It was truly an unforgettable experience for me. My mum constantly brings—and loves to bring— joy to those around her. Another surprise she is famously known for is keeping it a secret when she travels from Hong Kong to Los Angeles to see my great-grandmother who lives there.  I will forever be in admiration of my mother and I hope I can do the same gift of surprise-giving too. 

Hi Mama,  I have you named on my phone as Wonder Woman because you truly are my biggest superhero. You can do it all.  I am so grateful to have such a strong and loving female role model like you. Thank you for all that you do, not just for me, but for didi, baba and the whole family. I hope to become half as magnificent as you, mama. Everyday is Mother’s Day.”

Ayla Sham, KOL and Tatler’s Asia’s Most Stylish honouree

Tatler Asia
Above Ayla Sham with her mother Chingmy (Photo: courtesy of Ayla Sham)

“I love being by my mother’s side and spending time with her. Even though I’m 22, I still make her put me to sleep and sit by my bed until I fall asleep. I love that she’s the last face I see before I go to my dreamland.” 

Beatrice Ho, KOL and Tatler’s Asia’s Most Stylish honouree

Tatler Asia
Above Beatrice Ho with her mother Daisy and grandmother Lucina (Photo: courtesy of Beatrice Ho)

“One of my favourite memories with my mum is spending major holidays in Los Angeles together. We celebrated all my milestones there: from learning how to ride a bike to leaving for boarding school to graduating from college— Mum, I’d like to express immense gratitude for your dedication, unconditional love and undying loyalty. You always know what looks best—even if I initially disagree. Most significantly, thank you for being someone who has never broken a promise to me, for teaching me the importance of integrity, and for believing in me so much that saying ‘I can’t’ was never an acceptable answer.”

Nadia Harilela, executive, 1880 Hong Kong

Tatler Asia
Above Nadia Harilela with her mother Reyna (Photo: courtesy of Nadia Harilela)

“Mummy, thank you for showing me what it truly means to be a strong woman; for raising me to be independent and for supporting me through all the highs and lows on the way. You’re the strongest person I know.”

Vanessa Wong, founder and managing director, W.H.Y art advisory

Tatler Asia
Above Vanessa Wong with her mother Catherine (Photo: courtesy of Vanessa Wong)
Tatler Asia
Above Vanessa Wong with her mother Catherine (Photo: courtesy of Vanessa Wong)

“My mum has always been my role model. She has taught me to be kind, strong, courageous and sincere. Her wisdom and guidance have shaped me into the person I am today. I have instilled the same values and morals in my daughter.

Ever since I was young, I have always admired my mother’s passion, dedication, commitment and perseverance. She works hard and has accomplished many dreams of hers such as curating meaningful and impactful exhibitions and fostering cultural exchange. I have worked with her and I know how dedicated and resilient she is. She has inspired me to grow and to improve myself everyday. 

Dear Mum, you are an incredible mother, my best friend and my most honest critic. You have been my pillar of strength throughout. Thanks for loving, caring and believing in me. I am so blessed to have you as my mother.”

Elva Ni, KOL and co-founder of Be Earth Yoga Studio

Tatler Asia
Above Elva Ni with her mother Nancy (Photo: courtesy of Elva Ni)

“Happy Mother’s Day to the woman who raised me to be the strong and independent woman I am today. You are the best role model I could have ever asked for. I love you forever and always.”

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Tara Sobti
Content Director & Head of VIP, Tatler Hong Kong
Tatler Asia

As Content Director at Tatler Hong Kong, Tara shapes the brand's editorial vision and reports on Asia's most influential figures — from CEOs and business leaders to designers. In her dual role as Head of VIP, she curates star-studded events and builds the relationships and communities that define the brand. Born and raised in the Middle East, she honed her craft in Dubai, crafting communication strategies for luxury brands across the Gulf. Follow her on Instagram @tarasobti.