Cover Cissy and Donnie Yen with David and Avisha Harilela at The One Humanitarian Awards (Photo: courtesy of The One)
Cissy and Donnie Yen with David and Avisha Harilela at The One Humanitarian Awards (Photo: courtesy of The One)
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The One Humanitarian Awards brought together influential figures like Donnie Yen and Cissy Wang, but the true stars of the evening were the humanitarians honoured for their exceptional contributions to society
Where? Holiday Inn Golden Mile
Who? Donnie Yen, Cissy Wang, David Harilela, Shirley Hiranand, Divia Harilela, Reyna Harilela
Here’s what you missed:
On November 19, the prestigious The One gala dinner and award ceremony took place at the Holiday Inn Golden Mile. This annual event, a staple on the city’s social calendar, brought together influential figures, including international film star Donnie Yen and wife Cissy Wang, director of Bullet Films Productions. Other notable attendees included Shirley Hiranand, Divia Harilela and Reyna Harilela. The event, whose theme was Magic of Love, was expertly hosted by model and actress Sarika Choy.
A highlight of the gala was Jasmine Yen's captivating performance of her new single, Z.
Also read: Meet Dr Mona Minkara, the blind scientist redefining accessible travel and adventure
David Harilela
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The true stars of the evening were the six humanitarians honoured for their exceptional contributions to society. Over HK$2.5 million was awarded to these remarkable individuals from Africa, India and Hong Kong.
Mathew Varghese, an orthopaedic surgeon renowned for pioneering reconstructive surgeries for polio sufferers in India, was named The One International. Father John Wotherspoon, a dedicated priest aiding drug addicts and the homeless in Yau Ma Tei, was awarded The One Hong Kong.
The international finalists included Dr Satish Gogulwar, who delivers life-saving medical services to tribal communities in India and Dr Paul Thistle, a surgeon and educator making significant strides in Zimbabwe.
Hong Kong finalists featured Elli Fu Nga-nei, founder of J Life Foundation, which supports the underprivileged community and Morgan Lam Kai-fai of Hope Through Music, which empowers disadvantaged youth through musical education.
Launched in 2012 by David Harilela and Rotary International District 3450, The One Humanitarian Award celebrates individuals who have dedicated their lives to alleviating pain, suffering and poverty.
The One has recognised 74 heroes and contributed over US$3.3 million to humanitarian projects, impacting more than 300,000 lives globally.
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Credits
Photography: Courtesy of The One
As Content Director at Tatler Hong Kong, Tara shapes the brand's editorial vision across social, digital and print. She also drives the planning and execution of Tatler's flagship IPs. In her dual role as Head of VIP, she reports on Asia's most influential figures — from CEOs and leaders across business, style and the arts — 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.
