In what ways do you take after your mother?

My mother is meticulous and her attention to detail is second to none. Whether it’s putting together the most stylish outfit or chicest table setting, she never fails to amaze. I like to think this is one of the many traits I have inherited from her.

What is something you don’t see eye to eye on?

Hoarding. I believe in not holding on to items for the sake of it. This includes my angel wings that I wore on Halloween when I was six. My mother, on the other hand, holds onto everything. I lost the angel wings battle.

What is your favourite memory together?

Mum and I take a trip once a year, just the two of us. Paris remains an unchanged stop on our itinerary. I love that she shares the same excitement as I do in exploring different cities we’ve never visited before, like Baku or Florence. I can’t wait to resume that tradition.

What is your most treasured item that your mother has passed down to you?

Her Chanel bag from 1988. It was the first designer item she ever purchased for herself after working tirelessly to start and build the family business with my dad in 1987. It’s so much more than just an accessory to me: it’s a symbol of her hard work and dedication. One day I hope to be able to pass something down to my children that can hold as much value [to them] as this bag does to me.

In what ways did motherhood change you?

In countless ways. Suddenly it wasn’t about me any more; it was about my children. I learnt to be more selfless and compassionate. Patience was never one of my virtues, but that changed overnight. I learnt to be more organised and methodical. There is so much to think about when it comes to their well-being and education, and I am still learning. Because of my children, my capacity to love knows no bounds. It’s a magical journey and I am enjoying every moment of the ride. It’s also easy when you have a great support system. My husband is the best partner and team player.

How did your own mother influence your parenting style?

My mother was loving but firm. Growing up, I thought she was too strict and didn’t afford me much freedom. Times were different then. I was a bit of a rebel in my teen years—yes, I know that’s hard to believe. My parents never would have approved of me dating my husband back in the day. I used to sneak off with him as a teenager to little cafés in Sai Kung and Lei Yue Mun, places we knew we wouldn’t bump into my parents’ friends. I also used to skip classes at school and go to the movies or parties. I can’t mention some of the other things I used to do, but let’s just say I was no angel. When I had my own children [Shalene, 26, and son Dhiraj, 31], I promised myself that they would be allowed to have a voice and follow their dreams. One thing my mother did teach me was to try and do as much as I could, independently. That has paid off and today I am grateful for her life lessons. 

What is your favourite memory of Shalene as a child?

It would have to be our first cruise together in the Caribbean when she was six. It was such a happy time together with the family. Another favourite moment was during kindergarten when Shalene won the award for best handwriting in her year group. She was so shy and refused to go on stage to collect her award.

Do you have any family traditions?

Some traditions are very important to our family, such as [Indian festival of lights] Diwali. Another valued tradition is Raksha Bandhan, which is a [traditional Hindu] celebration of a sister’s love for her brother. It is a way of preserving our culture. Of course, Sundays are sacred to our family, as this is the day we all get together and spend quality time together.

How do you two maintain your close bond?

I set aside time to do activities, such as board games, puzzles, movies and travelling. It is during those times that the conversation flows and we confide in each other. We love eating out so we always talk about new restaurants to try, like 888FatFatFat, Bâtard and Frantzén’s Kitchen. We both love fashion so we are always exchanging thoughts about new trends.

What about Shalene makes you most proud?

She’s a very confident young lady and has a strong sense of compassion and kindness, which I admire. She takes her responsibilities seriously and I am in awe of her drive where work is concerned. I appreciate that she does not take things for granted, despite having come from a privileged background.

See also: Dear Santa: Janice Chan-Choy, Candice Suen-Sieber, Yuda Chan and Fiona Kotur's Christmas Wish Lists