Cover Joanna Hotung, Brian Henderson and Claire Goodchild at The Women's Foundation gala on November 13 (Photo: courtesy of TWF)
Joanna Hotung, Brian Henderson and Claire Goodchild at The Women's Foundation gala on November 13 (Photo: courtesy of TWF)
1 / 1
The Women's Foundation brought together 450 guests at The Ritz-Carlton on November 13 for its annual fundraising gala, raising more than HK$1.3 million through a silent auction and pledge to advance gender equality in Hong Kong
The Women's Foundation held its annual gala on November 13 at The Ritz Carlton in Hong Kong and was emceed by Jennifer Wannenmacher. It featured a powerful speech from Fiona Nott, the foundation's Chief Executive Officer, who drew on her personal journey to illustrate the transformative power of community support.
"I was told I would never make it in law. I applied anyway," Nott told guests. "When I left my corporate role, people said my career was over. When I experienced sexual violence, I was told to stay quiet. I didn't take that advice."
Nott emphasised that gender inequality affects persons of all genders, ages and socio-economic backgrounds. She highlighted the stark reality facing many in Hong Kong, noting that one in five families live in poverty. "It's the elderly woman. A single mother. The middle-aged women who feel invisible and who no-one will employ," she said.
The foundation announced the launch of a new programme for underserved women, providing critical life skills in communications, finance and AI, whilst building support systems that replace isolation with hope. "Women turning to one another and saying the words that change everything: You're not alone. You are capable. You matter," Nott said.
Joanna Hotung, Fiona Nott, Lena Harilela and Felicity McRobb (Courtesy of The Women's Foundation)
1 / 9
A highlight of the evening came from personal testimonies. Iris Lo, associate professor in the department of sociology at Hong Kong Baptist University and Byron Phillips, partner at Hogan Lovells, shared letters to their younger selves. University students Apple Lo and Nathan Cheng participated in a conversation about their experiences in The Women's Foundation's programmes.
Nott shared the story of Young Allies programme participant Chapman, who realised inequality existed in his own home after seeing his mother working full-time whilst carrying the entire household load. He responded by creating a weekly chore roster with his family. "It seems so simple, but it's profound," Nott said. "Now imagine that shared responsibility multiplied across households in Hong Kong. This is how we shift culture."
The funds raised will support The Women's Foundation's ongoing research, advocacy and programmes focused on three main goals: challenging gender stereotypes, empowering women in poverty and advancing women leaders. As Nott concluded: "Together, we are writing Hong Kong's next chapter where no one is held back, and allyship is the norm."
Now read:
From drag queens to cancer survivors: how wigs transform identities
The values that make us: Nicol David and Ann Marie David on motherhood, role models and memories
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.
