Every spare surface in Anson Chan’s home must be buried under awards. During her more than 40 years in the public eye as a politician and human rights campaigner, Anson has ceaselessly fought for democracy, defended press freedom and raised Hong Kong’s profile on the world stage—work that has earned her international acclaim and countless prestigious honours.
Award ceremonies have been some of the more glamorous moments in Anson’s political career, but they also give her a rare moment to pause and reflect on her achievements and values. “It is, of course, always gratifying to know that one’s efforts are appreciated,” Anson says.
“Winning the Power and Influence Women of Hope award in 2016 reinforced my view that power and influence should not be used for personal gain and self-aggrandisement, but to make a difference to our community and to bring hope to people. We all have a contribution to make.”
See also: Meet The Women Of Hope 2018 Award Nominees
A win-win situation
Jo Soo-Tang, founder of the Women of Hope initiative, couldn’t agree more. When she established the non-profit in 2014, Jo had two goals in mind: she wanted to raise awareness of and funds for the Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation (HKAHF) while simultaneously celebrating women making a difference in Hong Kong.
To achieve these objectives, Jo set up a platform through which members of the public could vote online for inspiring women working in a variety of sectors, with the winners announced at a glamorous fundraising lunch for HKAHF. It’s a win-win situation.
The first year, there were only 60 guests and it was a “very small, intimate affair,” Jo remembers. But that informal gathering is now a distant memory. Every year, Women Of Hope has grown, honouring more inspiring women and raising more funds for the HKAHF. This year’s event will be held on May 18 in the ballroom of the JW Marriott.
“I am very proud of how it’s grown in terms of attendees, sponsors, who have become friends, and especially the number of committee members involved,” Jo says. “It takes a village to do anything, so relationships are key to any event of this nature.” One of Jo’s earliest supporters was Sharie Ross-Tse, who sits on the board of governers of the HKAHF.
See also: A Day In The Life Of Sharie Ross-Tse