Cover Former CEO of Mother's Choice, Alia Eyres, with her mother Phyllis Marwah and children, at the 2025 Mother's Choice Gala on May 17 (Photo: courtesy of Mother’s Choice)
Former CEO of Mother's Choice, Alia Eyres, with her mother Phyllis Marwah and children, at the 2025 Mother's Choice Gala on May 17 (Photo: courtesy of Mother’s Choice)
1 / 1
The 2025 Mother’s Choice Gala was a remarkable evening of philanthropy at the JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong
The 2025 Mother’s Choice Gala was a remarkable evening of philanthropy at the JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong, where 400 guests gathered under the inspiring theme Connecting Communities, Changing Lives. The dazzling black-tie affair raised over HK$30 million, exceeding its target of HK$25 million. The evening began with a sophisticated cocktail reception featuring bespoke creations from Bar Leone. Guests then moved to the grand ballroom, where the organisation’s vice patron, Rosanna Wong, welcomed attendees with a warm address, highlighting Mother’s Choice’s mission to support vulnerable children and pregnant teenagers across Hong Kong.
In case you missed it: Planning a trip to Doha? Here’s how to enjoy Qatar the Tatler way
Inside the gala (Photo: courtesy of Mother's Choice)
1 / 14
Sky Siu, who was appointed CEO of Mother’s Choice last year, delivered an inspiring speech outlining the organisation’s vision for every child to grow up in a loving family. “It has been nine months since I’ve been the CEO of Mother’s Choice and it’s been an absolute privilege,” said Siu. “But we are facing a child protection crisis in Hong Kong. We are still seeing that one in four children is living in poverty. [These children] are coming to us from families that have neglected them, abused them and have exposed them to prenatal drugs. What is this world that our children are being born into? Family is a game-changer; we cannot see children being born into unsafe homes. We are breaking the cycle.” Siu’s speech was met with applause, including from, of course, Mother’s Choice’s co-founder Phyllis Marwah and her daughter Alia Eyres, formerly its CEO.
A recorded message from Mother’s Choice patron Purviz Shroff also deeply resonated with attendees. Shroff, who has cared for more than 2,000 babies over the last four decades, shared a poignant story about losing her son. In a dream, she recalled, he encouraged her to dedicate herself to helping children—a calling she has faithfully embraced, helping hundreds find permanent homes.
The live auction was a highlight of the evening, with a Michael Jordan-signed Chicago Bulls jersey, donated by NBA Asia, fetching HK$1.2 million. The enthusiastic bidding reflected the community’s unwavering support for Mother’s Choice.
The most moving moment came when Devyn Gidumal, son of Tatler Front and Female winner Shalini Mahtani and a Mother’s Choice adoptee, shared his personal journey—an embodiment of the transformative impact of the organisation’s work.
Since its inception in 1987, Mother’s Choice has remained steadfast in its mission to provide critical support to Hong Kong’s most vulnerable, offering essential services for children, youth and families while working to prevent crises through community engagement. The gala’s resounding success proved Hong Kong’s commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive in a loving family environment, continuing Mother’s Choice’s decades-long legacy of compassion and care.
NOW READ
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.
