The contrasts of life: how motherhood reshaped Mani Fok’s definition of protection

Being able to fend for yourself is the foundation that makes other forms of protection possible, along with preserving a strong sense of self, and not losing yourself while caring for others. “Many women are accustomed to prioritising those around them, but you must leave room for your own value and personal development. Only by standing firm yourself can you have the ability to protect everything you cherish.”

Standing firm extends beyond Fok’s own life and family to the industry that has shaped her career. “Having been immersed in this industry for over 30 years, I often reflect on the idea of promises,” she says. These span promises to herself, to remember her original aspirations and respect creativity; to her family, to maintain a work-life balance; and to the field of music and entertainment. A promise, like the one upheld by HSBC Life, to be your life partner and help you keep your promises to the people you care about most.

 “My ultimate commitment to this industry is to safeguard Hong Kong's unique cultural DNA, cultivate fertile ground and build platforms for the next generation to thrive,” she adds. “The commercial commitment is to originality. Creativity and commerce should not be at odds; instead, they should complement and elevate each other. Only by striking this balance can our company achieve sustainable growth and go the distance.”

Fok opened up about her experiences and the promises she’s making in conversation with Tara Sobti, content director and head of VIP at Tatler, who has helped build Tatler’s communities of the region’s most influential people—including high-profile women in different stages of life. Their meaningful dialogue draws on their respective backgrounds to explore their perspectives on what a promise truly means—to themselves, and to the future.

Tara Sobti: This campaign centres on the promises women make. What is the ultimate “promise” you hope to fulfil?

Mani Fok: My ultimate promise to this industry is to safeguard Hong Kong’s unique cultural DNA and build platforms for the next generation to thrive. Creativity and commerce should elevate each other. Only by balancing both can a company continue to thrive.

Tara Sobti: As content director and head of VIP at Tatler, one of my greatest joys is to work with extraordinary women every day. When you think about the next generation—your daughter, your niece or a young woman just starting her career—what is one thing you wish they would know about protecting their future?

Mani Fok: Raising my daughter Hanni changed my understanding of “protection”. I once thought protecting my artists meant sheltering them from professional dilemmas. But becoming a mother taught me that you can’t shield them from every setback. It is about giving them support and the courage to face risks and to make their own judgements.