Cover Jeffrey Andrews, manager, Christian Action (Photo: Affa Chan/Tatler Hong Kong)
Jeffrey Andrews, manager, Christian Action (Photo: Affa Chan/Tatler Hong Kong)
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World Day of Social Justice reaffirms the commitment to human dignity and fundamental freedoms
Throughout history, social justice champions have led transformative movements, challenging oppression and fighting for fundamental rights. Martin Luther King Jr’s vision of racial equality, Nelson Mandela’s defiance of apartheid and Malala Yousafzai’s unwavering advocacy for girls’ education have reshaped societies and inspired generations. Their legacies remind us that justice is not inevitable—it is won through persistent advocacy, courage and solidarity.
Yet, the fight is far from over. Millions still face poverty, social exclusion and discrimination based on race, gender, disability or economic status. Observed annually on February 20, the World Day of Social Justice serves as a global reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and human dignity and the urgent need for inclusive policies and collective action.
In Asia, social justice leaders continue the fight, driving systemic change through advocacy, collaboration and grassroots action. Among Asia’s Most Influential, these changemakers challenge inequality, amplify marginalised voices and push for fair opportunities to make justice a universal right.
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Luong The Huy, director, Institute for Social, Economic and Environmental Research (Vietnam)
Above Luong The Huy, director, Institute for Social, Economic and Environmental Research
Luong The Huy, director, Institute for Social, Economic and Environmental Research
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Luong The Huy is a social justice advocate and legal expert dedicated to advancing the rights of marginalised communities. His activism began in 2008 with volunteer work supporting the LGBTQ+ community, later joining the LGBTQ+ organisation ICS Center in 2011, where he focused on public awareness, education and policy advocacy.
From 2013, he played a key role in shaping legal reforms, contributing to amendments in Vietnam’s Marriage and Family Law and Civil Code while also representing the country in the United Nations. Huy has also served as the director of iSEE, a nonprofit championing social equity for ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals and other disadvantaged communities. He continues to drive change through research, legal reform and community initiatives, particularly in mental health and social inclusion, fostering a more just and equitable society in Vietnam.
Read Luong The Huy’s full profile on Asia’s Most Influential
Rozana Isa, executive director, Sisters In Islam (Malaysia)
Above Rozana Isa, executive director, Sisters In Islam
Rozana Isa, executive director, Sisters In Islam
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Rozana Isa has been a steadfast advocate for women’s rights for over two decades, dedicating her career to advancing gender equality within the framework of Islam. As the executive director of Sisters in Islam (SIS), she spearheads the organisation’s mission to promote justice, freedom and dignity, ensuring that women have the knowledge and agency to advocate for change.
Under her leadership, SIS has been a formidable force in legal and policy reforms, engaging with policymakers, media, NGOs and grassroots movements to address issues such as Islamic Family Law, moral policing and religious freedoms. Beyond advocacy, the NGO plays a pivotal role in research and outreach, fostering a more inclusive and progressive society by challenging discriminatory practices and equipping women with the tools to assert their rights. Rozana’s work highlights the connection between faith and feminism, emphasising that equality and justice are fundamental principles.
Jeffrey Andrews, manager, Christian Action (Hong Kong)
Above Jeffrey Andrews, manager, Christian Action (Photo: Affa Chan/Tatler Hong Kong)
Jeffrey Andrews, manager, Christian Action (Photo: Affa Chan/Tatler Hong Kong)
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“My hope is to build a truly multicultural and united community,” said Jeffrey Andrews, the pioneering social worker and tireless advocate for ethnic minority rights in Hong Kong. Born to Indian parents, Andrews has experienced discrimination firsthand, shaping his deep commitment to social justice, inclusion and systemic change.
As the manager of Christian Action’s centre, the drop-in facility for refugees and asylum seekers, he plays a crucial role in providing food assistance, counselling and legal aid to some of Hong Kong’s most marginalised communities. But his impact extends far beyond frontline services. Andrews is also a bridge-builder, fostering cross-cultural understanding through initiatives like United Colours of Christian Action, a refugee football team that promotes racial harmony and challenges social stigmas. His unwavering dedication to reshaping narratives around race and belonging has been recognised, having received accolades from the Hong Kong government and Manchester United.
Read Jeffrey Andrew’s full profile on Asia’s Most Influential
Tatler Asia’s Most Influential is the definitive list of people shaping our world today. Asia’s Most Influential brings together the region's most innovative changemakers, industry titans and thought leaders who are driving positive impact in Asia and beyond. View the full list here.
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