Cover Gigi Chao (Photo: Amanda Kho)
Gigi Chao (Photo: Amanda Kho)
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Gigi Chao is the executive vice-chairman of Cheuk Nang Holdings, an investment holding company specialising in property; the founder of Faith in Love Foundation, a charity she established in 2008 to support underprivileged children in Hong Kong; an architect, coder, and outspoken LGBTQ+ advocate. Ask her to pick her favourite role and she’d be hard-pressed to find an answer.
Describe what you do in one sentence.
I build social capital by bridging the divide between traditional industries, technology and social movements.
How does your business make a difference?
I think about what makes business fun. For me, it’s doing something new, creative and impactful. With that in mind, I can galvanise people to participate at different levels of the community.
What’s the secret of your success?
Never giving up and having a vision for my future. Even if you have a general feeling, rather than something specific [for your future], find strength to make it happen and find courage to make tough decisions.
What lesson did you have to learn the hard way?
I’ve learnt to always listen to what people have to say, but to draw my own conclusions about what it means, and what action should be taken.
Above Gigi Chao (Photo: Amanda Kho)
Gigi Chao (Photo: Amanda Kho)
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Do you have any mentors? If so, who are they and what is the best piece of advice they have given you?
When we think about mentors, we tend to think of an older person that has experienced a lot—and hence is able to give advice. I think this mental stereotyping should change. I learn a lot from the younger kids, too. I hear “that’s not the way it’s done” sometimes from the younger generation, and it makes me realise that a conservative point of view is not actually an age issue— it’s a habit issue.
What is something about you that surprises people?
I love Web3 gaming and have learnt many finance tricks [from it], about how human motivation is captured through gamification.
So much of what you do comes down to human connection. What are your thoughts on this?
I am actually an introvert. I love people, but only when we can connect authentically. I treasure the moments when connections can cut through the noise.
What is a cause you are passionate about?
Marriage equality in Hong Kong. [Striving for it] redefines human relationships [and] ensures that they are inclusive.
What quote do you live by?
“We are the ones we have been waiting for”, by the Pulitzer Prize winner Alice Walker.
If you could go back in time, what would you tell your younger self ?
You’ve been doing great. Spend 15 minutes a day on skincare and your 40-year- old self will thank you.
You wear so many hats. Are you looking to add more to your résumé?
Stay tuned—my next hat is just around the corner.
Credits
Photography: Amanda Kho
As Content Director at Tatler Hong Kong, Tara shapes the brand's editorial vision across social, digital and print, and reports on Asia's most influential figures — from CEOs and leaders across business, style and the arts. In her dual role as Head of VIP, she also drives the planning and execution of Tatler's flagship IPs, curating star-studded events and building 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.
