Everyday is International Women’s Day when these Hong Kong women are out there slayin’! Read on and you might just find yourself a new girl crush. ;)
Hear it from Beyonce: who run the world? Girls! Guys, we love you, but let’s be real: no matter our gender, we should celebrate International Women’s Day, not least because of the fact that we all came out of a vagina. At Honeycombers, we’ve had the amazing opportunity to meet and introduce to you young female talents like Kiyoko Tsukabayashi; creatives like Vivian Yau; and incredible entrepreneurs in our Launchpad community – all of whom have been making the world go round since day one. But, there are still many more ladies out there who deserve to be recognised for their work. So, to honour International Women’s Day 2024, we’re listing more Hong Kong women who, we think, should get on your radar. #InspireInclusion
International Women’s Day 2024: Inspirational Hong Kong women
1. Ceicy Wong, Managing Director of Vegware Hong Kong
Have you ever spotted the Vegware logo on your takeaway cups? Here’s the Wonder Woman behind the brand! Believing that sustainability is the new luxury, Ceicy Wong introduced Vegware, a UK-based brand that specialises in plant-based compostable foodservice packaging, to Hong Kong in 2016. With her international background, including an MBA in luxury brand management from ESSEC Business School in France, Ceicy has comprehensive insight into the future of sustainable development around the world. Vegware has since been recognised by numerous green awards and accolades for its work towards reducing carbon footprint, diverting landfill, growing composting regions, and closing the loop through promoting compostable disposables. Vegware’s convenient and eco-friendly packaging is one of the best solutions to minimise waste in the food sector – and we’re all for it!
Find out more about Ceicy Wong and Vegware Hong Kong.
2. May Wong and Mandy Chen, Co-founders of Linguabox Group
May Wong and Mandy Chen, the co-founders of online Mandarin tutoring platform Linguabox, are devoted to paying it forward for women’s empowerment and gender equality in both the workplace and education. Having faced the challenge of balancing motherhood and business, the duo have been keenly providing flexible job opportunities for female teachers, so that they can reintegrate into the workforce and enjoy fulfilling careers without sacrificing family life. These devoted teachers then, in turn, work with their students – many of whom are girls and women in Hong Kong. By teaching them a new language like Mandarin, Linguabox opens up new employment opportunities for its adult students, and offers homework support and tailored guidance to the girls, so that they can achieve academic success and become next-generation leaders. From founder to teacher to student, Linguabox proves to be more than a female-led virtual learning platform – it is uplifting the women of today as well as the future.
Find out more about May Wong and Mandy Chen of Linguabox Group.
3. Solène Verrot, Director of EstheClinic Hong Kong
Hailing from France, Solène Verrot landed in Hong Kong in 2019 with the goal of growing her family business – EstheClinic. With her family having already cemented the reputation of EstheClinic as one of the top beauty and wellness clinics in France and Singapore over the past two decades, Solène then introduced the brand’s very own groundbreaking aesthetic technologies to Hong Kong, offering non-invasive and painless treatments to all. Solène is a firm believer in the power of self-confidence, and how feeling good about one’s body can bring a resoundingly positive effect. Under her leadership, EstheClinic Hong Kong has flourished within just a few years, boasting two locations in Hong Kong Island, a growing team, and thousands of loyal customers.
Find out more about Solène Verrot and EstheClinic.
4. Sarah Wersborg, Founder of Project S
With a motivational mantra that “life begins outside your comfort zone”, Sarah Wersborg is the mastermind behind Project S, Hong Kong’s top boutique spin and HIIT studio. The welcoming and uplifting atmosphere at Project S (along with the stunning views of the city’s skyline!) embodies her belief in the importance of physical fitness and mental health. A professional fitness trainer, entrepreneur, qualified lawyer, and ex-professional ballerina, Sarah is well equipped to manage and optimise fitness for all her clients. “Personal growth is about progress and not perfection,” shares Sarah. “The secret to getting ahead is getting started!”
So, what are you waiting for? Take the leap and join Project S’ IWD ride on 13 March (Wednesday) as we celebrate women today and every day – sign up via email while spots last!
Project S, 33-34/F, The Chelsea, 69 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, p. 2328 8211
5. Vannessa Misso-Veness, Founder of Cascade Train Teach Learn
Cascade Train Teach Learn is no ordinary education centre in Hong Kong. The founder, Vannessa Misso-Veness, is a qualified teacher and coach who provides a special approach to learning. She embeds coaching and well-being techniques into her English Language development lessons, so that students of all ages can learn more effectively, and achieve academic and professional growth. Vannessa specialises in supporting and empowering learners who deal with stress and low self-esteem; she helps them overcome these obstacles, so that they can perform better at school and be more self-aware. In addition, Cascade provides a unique model of support, which involves coaching the parents of young learners to help them understand how to better facilitate their child’s creativity and mental well-being.
As a result of working closely with parents, Cascade offers regular workshops and talks about conscious parenting. It hosts facilitation sessions about personal development for women and mothers, too – join the next one on 26 and 27 April!
Cascade Train Teach Learn, Seymour Place, 60 Robinson Road, Mid-levels, Hong Kong
6. Nishita Mehta-Jasani, Founder of Nishita Fine Jewelry
Mindful glamour takes a front seat with the celebrated work of Nishita Mehta-Jasani. A fourth-generation fine jeweller, Nishita is all about using her expertise for the greater good. Her brand, Nishita Fine Jewelry, boasts exquisitely crafted designs that not only empower women, but are also responsibly sourced and sustainably produced. What’s more, Nishita has a knack for turning clients’ old jewellery into modern treasures, artfully incorporating gems and gold from beloved past pieces. By giving heirlooms a new lease of life, recycling materials, and reducing waste, she ensures her jewellery is as eco-friendly as it is splendid. True to the UN’s sustainable development goals, her commitment to responsible production is nothing short of inspiring. Driven by a mission to shake up the way we think about fine jewellery, Nishita’s brand stands tall on the values of authenticity, responsibility, and trustworthiness. The result? Jewellery that lets women look fab without a shred of buyer’s remorse!
Find out more about Nishita Mehta-Jasani and Nishita Fine Jewelry.
7. Anita S. K. Cheung, founder of iLiving
Hear us out when we say: International Women’s Day isn’t just about women! Anita S. K. Cheung, the founder of iLiving Wellness Centre, celebrates the diverse expression of femininity which goes beyond appearance. Believing that everyone, regardless of gender, possesses the vital life forces of yin and yang, Anita sees the ability to relax, feel, receive support, trust and access intuition, as well as the capacity to be spontaneous, compassionate, and creative are all positive manifestations of the yin (or the “feminine”), and is much needed in our world.
She believes in integrating both the left and right hemispheres, inspiring us to embrace our “wholeness” of yin and yang for the good of all. Well-versed in a wide spectrum of healing modalities, including nutrition and health coaching, bioresonance, aromatherapy, hypnosis, trauma release breathwork, akashic reading, and much more, Anita offers a comprehensive approach to healing and is dedicated to facilitate optimal well-being in one’s physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions.
Enjoy a Quantum Health Scan, or take part in the upcoming Family and Systemic Constellation Workshop in March to commemorate International Women’s Day in Hong Kong with Anita S. K. Cheung and iLiving!
iLiving, 11/F, So Hong Commercial Building, 41-47 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
8. Coco Alexandra Chan, holistic consultant
It’s always inspiring to see people channel their greatest hardships into their biggest strengths. Coco Alexandra Chan has done just that, and seeks to help others do the same. A former PR professional, Coco spent a lot of time running from her emotional baggage. After being told she had chronic anxiety, she transformed her life with aromatherapy and soul-work. Coco has now aligned her spiritual, physical, and mental well-being and aims to be a guide to others’ path to soul alignment. It certainly wasn’t an easy journey to get to where she is now, which is why we consider her an inspirational woman in Hong Kong.
Find out more about Coco Alexandra Chan.
9. Victoria Chuard, Founder of Just Peachy
From building the biggest eco-conscious cloth diaper selection in this city, to eventually creating her own design-patented diaper, Victoria Chuard and her brand, Just Peachy, are a godsend to many Hong Kong parents. While she had to shift her focus from her multi-brand maternity and baby boutique to solely growing Just Peachy, Victoria has continued to demonstrate her passion and tenacity by providing sustainable, high-quality, and accessible products to families. Her children, who wouldn’t wear anything but Just Peachy’s “Feel Good” kids underwear collection, are testament to her success!
Find out more about Victoria Chuard and Just Peachy.
10. Juliette Eav, Nutrition Coach at Newtrition
It takes guts to step out of your comfort zone – but Juliette Eav has done it! Originally a digital marketer with little ambition, Juliette took two years to redevelop herself and build a vision of a new, purposeful life. She has since reborn into a health enthusiast, on a mission to transform lives through nutrition. By combining her passion in nutrition, her culinary skills, and her talent in content creation, she’s now a nutrition coach, aspiring to be a well-rounded positive influencer. Through her videos, she shares her journey, mindset, philosophy, and zest for life with a dash of humour and complete authenticity.
Find out more about Juliette Eav and Newtrition.
11. Nicole Denholder, Founder and CEO of Next Chapter
#WomenSupportingWomen is what Next Chapter is all about. Based in Hong Kong, this rewards-based crowdfunding platform is open to female entrepreneurs across Asia. It was set up by Nicole Denholder, an Australian who lives in Hong Kong. After settling in Hong Kong and eventually leaving her job in finance and consulting, Nicole came up with Next Chapter. On International Women’s Day 2024, we’d like to shout out to her passion for female entrepreneurship and empowerment, as well as her determination to change the way funding systems work for women.
Find out more about Nicole Denholder and Next Chapter.
12. Chef Teya Mikhael, Head Chef of Maison Libanaise
Chef Teya Mikhael has come full circle from her grandmother’s humble kitchen to commanding her own team, weaving the culinary wisdom of women into every dish she creates. Chef Teya cherishes memories of her childhood hours spent in the kitchen, where the women in her family turned simple ingredients into sumptuous feasts, sparking her own culinary journey. Now, after over six years at renowned kitchens across Lebanon, she’s continuing their legacy at Maison Libanaise under Black Sheep Restaurants. Drawing on the resonant flavours and recipes passed down through the generations, Mikhael crafts dishes that are more than just meals; they’re treasured memories that carry the echoes of the women who inspired her. She stands as a testament to the enduring wisdom of women, as grandmothers and mothers pass down their knowledge to the next generation of female chefs.
Find out more about Chef Teya Mikhael and Maison Libanaise.
13. Lara Jefferies, Managing Director of Plug
At the tender age of 24, Lara Jefferies already had the savvy of a CEO with decades of experience. Back when she had just three years of PR experience under her belt, she bravely launched her own agency, Plug, and took on heavyweights like Google, Nespresso, and Fenty Beauty. Fast forward a decade, and Lara has transformed Plug into a titan of the industry, bagging over 20 awards and earning recognition as one of APAC’s Women to Watch. Beyond her accolades and her sharp execution in the global markets, Lara’s commitment to mentorship and passion truly uplifts her team. She’s a trailblazer who raises the bar for young women founders across the world.
Find out more about Lara Jefferies and Plug.
14. Sylvia Tang, CEO of Apex Property
What’s the secret behind the success of a leading property developer? Meet Sylvia Tang, whose lifelong passions for architecture and skiing inspired her to set up Apex Property, right in the heart of Niseko’s snowy slopes. With 15 years of real estate experience across the Asia Pacific regions, Sylvia has been bringing extensive knowledge and a fresh lens to the male-dominated property world. Her pioneering spirit is evident in how she’s able to uncover overlooked opportunities and revitalise landscapes with a keen architectural eye. Representing the power of a creative and dynamic female property developer who’s managed to construct an empire by doing what she adores, Sylvia says, “I hope I can inspire other women to pursue their dreams in the real estate industry, and that my success can empower others to break barriers and achieve their goals.”
Find out more about Sylvia Tang and Apex Property.
15. Abby Cadman, Managing Director; and Tegan Waters, General Manager of Feste Group
Abby Cadman and Tegan Waters are the dynamic duo managing Feste Group, leading the company to new heights in the event planning industry with their resilience and fiery passion. As Managing Director, Abby has steered Feste from its initial acquisition through to its expansion, demonstrating remarkable tenacity, particularly through the trials of a pandemic. Her commitment to her hospitality dreams is the heartbeat of Feste’s vibrant culture. Working in tandem, Tegan, as General Manager, brings her 15 years of rich experience to the table, orchestrating events with effortless grace and a dash of innovation. She’s a mentor at heart, fostering her team’s growth upon the foundation of complete trust. Together, their grit and wholehearted dedication not only propel Feste forward, but also cultivate a platform to nurture up-and-coming talent.
Find out more about Abby Cadman, Tegan Waters, and Feste Group.
16. Erin Cho, Executive Dean of PolyU School of Fashion and Textile
The first female Asian dean in The New School’s century-long history, Erin Cho has brought her daring ideas to the School of Fashion and Textiles at Hong Kong Polytechnic University – and is reshaping the global fashion industry as we know it. Her leadership pushes boundaries with an innovative, human-centred approach that covers everything from materials science to production and distribution. Under Erin’s guidance, the school is at the forefront of emerging technologies, connecting them with the evolving world of fashion. This forward-thinking approach has catapulted the institution to the top spot worldwide in both research and education. Additionally, Erin’s commitment exceeds academia; she’s dedicated to making a positive impact on society, be it through creating therapeutic garments or pioneering sustainable textiles. We call for more recognition for pioneers like Erin on International Women’s Day 2024!
Find out more about Erin Cho and PolyU School of Fashion and Textile.
17. Sarah Garner, Founder of Retykle
So many clothes, so little space – and way too much waste! Luckily, Sarah Garner and Retykle have come to our rescue. Retykle is a sustainable fashion concept that allows parents to recycle their children’s clothes by selling, donating, or swapping them with other kids’ apparel on the platform. This all started in 2016 when Sarah left the corporate luxury fashion industry and started her own business, fuelled by her passion to make a positive impact on the environment and community. Thank you, Sarah, for contributing to the planet (while also making second-hand shopping for kids that much easier)!
Curious about her secrets to success? Read our full interview with Sarah Garner.
Find out more about Sarah Garner and Retykle.
