Cover Members of the Tatler community unite in celebration of International Women's Day, coming together to share why this day (still) holds such importance

Members of the Tatler community unite in celebration of International Women's Day, coming together to share why this day (still) holds such importance

In honour of International Women’s Day, members of the Tatler Community came together to honour the remarkable strength and accomplishments of women from all around the world. 

From Anne Wang-Liu, who serves on the board of governors for Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre, who shares with us a quote she lives by, to Feiping Chang, one of Hong Kong’s most photographed women, who is a proud advocate for prioritising our physical and emotional well-being, as well as men allies like Ryan Sun, Chibo Tang and Edwin Pun—here they share with us what makes them feel powerful and who their female inspirations are.

Also read: How entrepreneur Jiwon Park challenged the patriarchy, tackled online abuse and is empowering women to take charge of their sexual wellness

Anne Wang-Liu

Tatler Asia
Above Anne Wang-Liu (Photo: Kiu Ka Yee / Tatler Hong Kong)

International Women’s Day fosters a more inclusive and equitable society. It provides an opportunity to recognise the contributions of women in various fields and inspires positive change for future generations.

When I'm feeling low, I speak to my daughters. When I hear the enthusiasm in their voices and feel the exuberance in their experiences, I take pride in them becoming strong, compassionate women. I look up to my mother because of her strong work ethic and her compassion for others.

I also admire Melinda Gates for her unwavering dedication to philanthropy, women’s empowerment and global health initiatives. “Stay courageous, be strong, be extremely kind and—above all—be humble,” is a quote by Serena Williams that has become my go-to mantra.

Alison Chan El-Azar

Tatler Asia
Above Alison Chan El-Azar (Photo: Kiu Ka Yee / Tatler Hong Kong)

I look up to my mother. It hasn’t always been that way, but as I grew up as a woman, I got to know her better for the woman she is. She has been through quite a bit in life and she reinvented herself in her 40s. She went back to law school, studied hard and is now a very successful barrister. This showed me that it’s never too late to find yourself at any age, and that’s really inspiring.

I always think about what I want to accomplish and how I want to feel every day. Trusting my journey and trusting who I am and where I want to be ultimately leads to freedom. It’s very important for me to feel free and be at peace. I feel most powerful when I'm taking charge of my life, when I am authentic and when I am not dependent on other people’s validation.

Feiping Chang

Tatler Asia
Above Feiping Chang (Photo: Kiu Ka Yee / Tatler Hong Kong)

I celebrate International Women’s Day not just because of the historical context and the fight for women’s rights, but because many of the issues are still relevant today. It’s also a great time to tell yourself and the women that you love their strength and worth.

My role as a mother is what makes me feel powerful. I have shared publicly about my journey with IVF and pregnancy, and it’s just amazing to witness what my body is capable of and how I am growing and evolving every single day as a woman. Never forget to prioritise your physical and emotional well-being. You can only help others around you when you’re happy and strong within yourself.

Eleanor Lam

Tatler Asia
Above Eleanor Lam (Photo: Kiu Ka Yee / Tatler Hong Kong)

International Women’s Day is a time when we can reflect on all the achievements that women have made. It’s also an important opportunity for us to further educate, inspire, and empower future generations without division.

My mantra is "I am enough" and, as a woman, I feel most powerful when I am surrounded and supported by the other strong and confident women in my life. To have a solid, genuine support system is very empowering because I truly believe that we are always more powerful together.

Ryan Sun

Tatler Asia
Above Ryan Sun (Photo: Kiu Ka Yee / Tatler Hong Kong)

The woman who inspires me the most is my wife, Sandee. When we started dating she taught me how to be a good partner. After becoming a parent she taught me how to be a good father too, and how to be patient with my kids.

My first tattoo was [an emblem] for love and respect, meaning love all and respect all. Hong Kong has good gender equity, but I would love to see it on a bigger scale. [This is important to me because] 65 per cent of my staff [at Fotomax] are women, and 70 per cent of my customers are women too!

Victoria Tang-Owen

Tatler Asia
Above Victoria Tang-Owen (Photo: Kiu Ka Yee / Tatler Hong Kong)

I feel powerful when I’m able to express myself authentically, without the fear of judgement or societal expectations, which is very empowering. I always strive to be the best version of myself and my go-to mantra is:  “Be a voice, not an echo”.

Nick Lau

Tatler Asia
Above Nick Lau (Photo: Kiu Ka Yee / Tatler Hong Kong)

Gender equality means breaking down barriers and stereotypes. It’s about embracing and promoting a more inclusive society. I hope for a future where young girls are empowered to chase their dreams and have equal opportunities and representation.

Ming Ho Tang

Tatler Asia
Above Ming Ho Tang (Photo: Zed Leets / Tatler Hong Kong)

Celebrating International Women’s Day is important because it is a day to recognise and celebrate women’s achievements. It also increases awareness for women’s equality.

As a woman, what makes me feel powerful is knowledge. I feel powerful when I am confident and comfortable with myself.

Lindsay Jang

Tatler Asia
Above Lindsay Jang (Photo: Eugene Kan)

Women should be celebrated every damn day, but having International Women’s Day draw focus to women’s issues is important, and I love how it’s exponentially growing every year.

There is no greater power than being a woman. We are divine beings, and we always have been. I'm so happy to be alive at a time where women are taking over.

Joyce Tam

Tatler Asia
Above Joyce Tam (Photo: Stephanie Teng / Tatler Hong Kong)

One of the greatest powers is women cheering other women on. That is why our girlfriends and our mothers are always our best advocates.

I will quote Serena Williams: “Every woman’s success should be an inspiration to another. We’re strongest when we cheer each other on.” Feminine power is not loud, it’s soft. We are able to influence without coercion. The world may not always see it, but man—it’s effective.

Antonia Da Cruz

Tatler Asia
Above Antonia Da Cruz (Photo: Joyce Yung)

Well, why not celebrate it? It’s a chance for us to celebrate all that women have done for humanity and to put a spotlight on the inequality and biases towards women that we still have to face today.

On a separate note, it’s incredible that our bodies can give life. Being able to have children and to provide my son [Enzo] with all his basic needs and tools for success makes me feel powerful.

Alex Jiaravanont

Tatler Asia
Above Alex Jiaravanont (Photo: Alex Maeland / Tatler Hong Kong)

My mother is a dynamite fuse. Light her up and she will not stop until things get done. She taught me perseverance and her passion applies to everything—from the way she earns money to the way she takes care of her loved ones.  

I remember coming back home from college and the house was decked out in shiny trophies. Apparently, while I was gone for a year, she took up golf and became the local club champion. I was not surprised because that’s just what she does. She is consumed by anything she touches.

Unfortunately, my mother grew up before women fully obtained equal opportunity, so I can only imagine what she could have achieved if she grew up today. This is why I think it is important to observe International Women’s Day. Despite the progress in the past decades, we must continue to ensure everyone is able to realise their full potential. International Women’s Day is a great occasion to celebrate the extraordinary contributions from women and allow their stories to inspire future generations.

Chibo Tang

Tatler Asia
Above Chibo Tang (Photo: Affa Chan / Tatler Hong Kong)

This day is important because it’s an opportunity to spotlight high-achieving women who can inspire others. Gender equality should mean that society as a whole can regard people of all genders without bias or discrimination. Men and women should be viewed with the same lens and perspective.

Edwin Pun

Tatler Asia
Above Edwin Pun (Photo: Affa Chan / Tatler Hong Kong)

International Women’s Day is an essential global observance that recognises and honours the achievements of women throughout history, their contributions to society, and the ongoing struggle for gender equality. By recognising and honouring women’s accomplishments, International Women’s Day inspires collective action towards creating a more equitable and inclusive world, where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality for all.

My mother has always been a constant source of strength. She has made countless sacrifices to provide for our family, putting her dreams and aspirations on hold to ensure our well-being and education. Her relentless determination to create a better life for our family has fuelled my own aspirations and motivated me to work hard towards my goals. Her sacrifices have taught me the importance of empathy, compassion and the willingness to go above and beyond for the ones we love.

Gender equality is not only about addressing visible injustices but also challenging deeply ingrained attitudes and norms that perpetuate discrimination. It calls for creating an inclusive society where everyone can thrive, regardless of their gender identity or expression.

Alan See

Tatler Asia
Above Alan See (Photo: KC Chan)

I grew up with two extremely talented, smart and hardworking sisters. They were no doubt a reflection of my super mum. Their efforts have shaped my life, so it is important to me that their efforts and hard work are rightfully recognised, especially on a day like International Women’s Day.

There are so many talented, hardworking and inspirational women in my life. I am now also married to Pearl [Shek], who is nothing short of extraordinary. Gender equality means giving ladies the recognition, rights and opportunities that they rightfully deserve.

Calvin Wang

Tatler Asia
Above Calvin Wang (Photo: Affa Chan / Tatler Hong Kong)

It’s important to recognise the progress of gender equality, honour the visionaries who have [made sacrifices] and who have paved the way and encouraged our community to find equality.

In the past, our society undervalued the instincts and inputs of women. For example, after my parents got married, my mum didn’t work, but her insights and wisdom on all aspects of life continued to keep my family on track. She’s the catalyst to our growth, yet she’s never eager to take credit. She’s the “invisible hand” behind the scenes.

All living and sentient beings should be seen and treated equally. Seeing this allows us to build a good foundation of compassion within our community, and hopefully will lead us to a more harmonious and kinder society.

Credits

Content Direction  

Zoe Yau

Styling  

Ahy Choi

Producer  

Tara Sobti

Photography  

Kiu Ka Yee

Photographer's Assistant  

Lun

Videography  

Kobe Mok

Videography  

Hugo Fok

Videography  

Mok Chi Kuen

Lighting  

Godfrey Lai

Production  

Nicole Ma

Make-Up  

Kit Li

Hair  

Dickson Chan

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