The founder of WHWHK tells us how she multitasks and why her friends constantly compare her to Cinderella

Between playing the role of mother and wife, or visiting centers and checking on programs created and wholly supported by Women Helping Women (WHWHK), Mahnaz Lee is committed to taking care of herself, whether it’s keeping an active lifestyle and eating clean (like anyone else – she admits to struggling to cut sugar from her diet completely).

Although she may be seen at a variety of events, Lee explains why she rarely stays out past her bedtime – and why she is an absolute sucker for a great cupcake or two:


I enjoy the fast paced lifestyle Hong Kong offers, between the cityscape and the lights to the greenery and ocean views, this city truly has it all

I love the infectious energy that people have here, the convenience and efficiency – it makes it easier to juggle different commitments and get a lot done, so I can’t complain 

When I need a fresh cup of coffee or just want to catch up with friends I like to head to MO Bar or Cova – the atmosphere is great and adds to the overall experience

If I need a stronger drink, I enjoy a glass of champagne, preferably Veuve Clicquot or Dom Perignon

I really enjoy keeping fit and maintaining an active lifestyle so I ensure I am working out at least three to four times a week at the American Club in Tai Tam. I love the panaramic views of the South China Sea – you totally destress whilst having a great workout 

My friends often call me “Minderella” because whenever I go out I always have to leave by midnight – I rarely stay up late because I simply can’t function the next day! I always try to get at least eight hours of sleep each night and on that note, I hardly allow myself to get drunk because I just think it does more damage to my body than good 

When I’m in the mood to splurge and indulge a little, I enjoy browsing around the Landmark in Central, a lot of my favourite designers are there, I like the selection from Valentino and Alexander McQueen to Carven, Marc Jacobs and Paule Ka

My husband and I love to travel, I especially enjoy visiting Europe, mainly Italy, France, and London – there’s so much history and it’s a nice change of environment and pace. A little shopping also never hurts right? Otherwise I like travelling to spa destinations regionally, I’ve heard a lot about The Farm in the Phillippines so that’s on my list for the moment

My guilty pleasure has got to be cupcakes – I love the red velvet and banana foster from Sift! I used to bake them at home myself but I only allow myself a treat once in a while, eating clean sadly means cutting sugar which is really tough – what is life without a bit of sweets?

Over the years I learned how to do my own hair and make-up because I didn’t want to get frazzled the day of the event when I’m running around town – so instead of running to the salon I like to nap, that way I look extra fresh before an event

Sevva is definitely one of my favourite dining destinations, Hong Kong has so many places to eat it’s hard to narrow them down! If I’m not obligated to attend an event then I prefer to eat something light and simple at home

If I’ve been away from Hong Kong for a while, I love indulging in my favourite comfort food, right now it’s the Hainan chicken rice at the Grand Hyatt


Photography by King Fung