A Magazine for the Women of Hong Kong December 2019 / January 2020
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A M a g a z i n e fo r t h e Wo m e n o f H o n g K o n g • D e ce m b e r 2 0 1 9 / J a n u a r y 2 0 2 0
THANK YOU!
We thank our fantastic partners for their support to the
AWA WISE Series 2019-20 Event
REINVENT YOURSELF & SWITCH CAREERS
Event is being rescheduled.
Stay tuned for new date!
VENUE PARTNER FOOD & BEVERAGE PARTNER TECHNOLOGY PARTNER
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
@awawisehk awa-wise-hong-kong Contact wise@awa.org.hk for more details.
RECONNECT WITH OLD FRIENDS
Join the
AWA
HONG KONG
ALUMNI
A Facebook group for current
and past members
of AWA Hong Kong
facebook.com/groups/310443729333943/
or search Facebook for "AWA Hong Kong Alumni"
DECEMBER 2019 / JANUARY 2020
The American Women’s
Association of Hong
Kong, Limited.
Established in 1956
We are a vibrant organization
of international women. Our
mission is to welcome and
empower women to connect
and contribute in Hong Kong.
AWARE PRODUCTION TEAM
EDITOR
15
Stephanie Chan
aware@awa.org.hk
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Samantha Merton
CONTRIBUTORS
Stephanie Chan
Contents
Annie Fifer
Carmela Gollogley
Vanessa Lenzlinger
Nimmi Malhotra
Augusta Nichols-Even
Andrea Roth
Vasavi Seethepalli
Gail Sousa News from the Board 2
GRAPHICS
AWA Enjoys 3
Jacky Ngan Better Know a Member 5
ADVERTISING MANAGER Catching Up with AWA’s Scholarship Recipients 6
Rehana Sheikh
advertising@awa.org.hk 12 Calling All English Speakers! 7
Thick Air in Hong Kong: Insights from Experts 8
Introducing the Champion: Alisa Camplin 12
PUBLISHED & PRINTED BY
R&R Publishing Ltd. Maligayang Pasko! Filipino Christmas Traditions 14
2126 7812
info@rrpublishing.com.hk Charity Bazaar 2019 15
www.rrpublishing.com.hk
Sparkling Wines to Kick Off the Holidays 21
Calendar 22
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE AFTER READING.
21
The AWA office is open from Monday-Thursday 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM. We are closed on Hong Kong public holidays.
VISIT THE AWA WEBSITE: www.awa.org.hk LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/awahk
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @AWA_HK FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: @awahongkong
Any opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author only and do not represent the opinion of the American Women’s Association.
Any reliance by the reader upon any recommendation or opinion in this publication is at the reader’s own risk.
The AWA accepts no responsibility for any loss which may result from such reliance.
Copyright 2019. The content of the AWAre publication is the property of the American Women's Association.
Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited. Information from within the publication
may not be distributed without the express written consent of the American Women's Association.
NEWS FROM THE BOARD
News from the Board
By Gail Sousa, 2nd Vice President,
Membership
IT’S ALWAYS interesting when one attends different story, listen attentively and show respect and kindness to
events but takes away complementary ideas. I recently other.
attended an AWA WISE networking event where I had 45 As VP of membership I was in charge of our
seconds to “tell my story” to someone I didn’t know. It Welcome Back Breakfast earlier this fall. I felt it was time
makes you think: what is important or different to tell to refresh the format, so I decided to mix things up: new
someone so they’ll remember me? Being succinct and room layout, a buffet breakfast set up outside the
offering something memorable is especially important in a ballroom, club and activity representatives mingling
networking environment. Afterward we discussed what it inside the ballroom, vendors, a panel discussion with
means to tell your story: how to highlight your three speakers representing different types of AWA
background, recall conflicts or tough scenarios (and the members, and random seating to encourage meeting
solutions), and explain how those experiences might be new friends. I loved how many of you stayed to chat
useful in the future. It can be hard to admit failures or more after the presentation. This event always reminds
setbacks, but discussing and then moving past them me of all the great things AWA does. Seeing
helps us grow and be successful. representatives from all facets of our organization
The day after the networking event was our board engaging with everyone in attendance was wonderful.
development day, an annual mini-retreat when members As was depicted throughout the morning, we really do
of the board set priorities for the year ahead and learn offer something for everyone.
about each other’s working and So I encourage you to spread the
communication styles. One of our word. As strong as our membership
first activities was to pick a photo is, there are still many women — your
from our phones, show it to another friends — who are unaware of the
board member whom we did not breadth of AWA. Why not invite
know well, and explain what the someone to a volunteer event,
photo meant or why it was important fundraiser, WISE networking event,
to us. The activity reminded me of coffee morning or OWL? All our
the exercise the night before: tell ongoing activities allow for guest
your story in 45 seconds. It was participation — it’s an easy way for
interesting how seeing an image nonmembers to get a glimpse of
and listening to a descriptive what they are missing out on.
narrative can aid in knowing and Between now and year-end, bring a
remembering a person. friend along to an activity you are
Later we spent time on listening attending. It’ll be a good warm-up to
for cues in conversation of what’s our “Share the Love” membership
important to someone. Picking up drive, coming in February.
on something, remembering it and Happy holidays. I hope you enjoy
asking about it in the future can celebrating with family and friends.
forge great teamwork and And don’t forget to come out and
productiveness. We all have raise a glass at the AWA holiday
different styles and motivators, but party at the bar at the Armoury in Tai
we should all be able to tell our Kwun, on December 4 from 6:00 to
7:00 PM.
2 AWARE December 2019 / January 2020
AWA ENJOYS
Walking Tour with Jason Wordie: Western District
Sunset Survivors Yau Ma Tei Walk with Lindsay Varty
Traditional Chinese Medicine 101 with Claire Cheng
Welcome New Members
Anita Atapattu Heather Latva-Kiskola
Caroline Bouquet Patricia Mahadevan
Maria Brusuelas Shalini Mahtani
Jacqueline Deley Nimmi Malhotra
Justyna Gomula Toni Mandoli
Molly Grogan Julie Murray
Megumi Harker Adrienne Ogier
Sigrid Haszonits Stacey Osborn
Stephanie Heydolph Tina Over Mid-Levels Coffee
Claire Ikeda-Thew Maitreyi Rao
Anne Jacquet Mary Roche Barry
Lorraine Keeble Priya Subberwal
Melodie Konforti Sandy Sveden
Seow Ling Lynn Lan
December 2019 / January 2020 AWARE 3
AWA ENJOYS
Pink Walk for Breast Health
Halloween Pub Quiz at Little Creatures, Kennedy Town
Human and Animal Interaction in Hong Kong:
CityU Veterinary College
AWA Afternoon Book Club, October
meeting. The group will meet next on
December 10 to discuss The Prophet,
by Kahlil Gibran, and January 14 to
discuss Washington Black, by Esi
Edugyan. For the list of books and
dates through next May, visit the
AWA website under Activities –
Ongoing Clubs and Sports –
Afternoon Book Club.
4 AWARE December 2019 / January 2020
FEATURE
Better Know a Member:
Lee Ann Verderese
How long have you lived in Hong Kong? Since August
2016.
How long do you think you are going to stay/live in Hong
Kong? I will be moving to New York City this summer of 2020,
so I will have lived here for four years.
Where are you from, and where have you lived? I was
born in Cincinnati, Ohio and moved to New York after
university to join Macy’s department store in their
management training program. After a long career in buying
and executive management for Macy’s, my husband’s job
took us to Geneva, Switzerland. We had young children and
thought a “few years” in Switzerland would be a great
experience. Our stay in Geneva ended up being 14 years,
after which we relocated to Hong Kong — also with my
husband’s company.
Children/family status? My husband and I have three
children: Olivia, who is a senior at Syracuse University in the
U.S.; Lucas, who is a senior at HKIS; and Cai Rose, who is in
year 13 at South Island School. We will be attending three
graduations this May!
What is your idea of perfect happiness? Being with family
and friends doing something I love, such as travel, sport or
relaxing together at a beach.
What is the quality you most like in a man? Humor,
kindness and integrity. (Cannot choose just one!)
What is the quality you most like in a woman? Same as What do you wish someone had told you in advance of
above. your move? Don’t bring your baby grand piano!
What has been your favorite AWA moment? The recent trip Where is your favorite travel destination? Japan. I’ve
to Bhutan is my new favorite AWA memory. Fabulous tour, visited three times, but would definitely like to spend more
great organization, very fun group of people, plus lots of time there.
hiking, exploring, eating the local food and participating in Where are you going on your next trip? Singapore with my
local customs. Amazing! I also have really enjoyed the two teenagers.
classes and have learned to play mahjong, bridge and golf What do you most value in your friends? Support.
while meeting new people. What is your current state of mind? Cannot wait until all the
What do you most love about HK? I love having access to college applications are in!
outdoor activities while living in an exciting and vibrant city. In If you could change one thing about yourself, what would
15 minutes, I can be at the beach or on a hiking trail. Best of it be? I would like to find the courage and time to launch my
both worlds. I also like how easy it is to meet people and next career/business/project — my next chapter during the
make friends in the large expat community. empty nest phase. It’s never too late!
What do you dislike or find most challenging about HK? “Better Know a Member” is a series highlighting the diversity
Not much to dislike here for me, just the polluted air days. of AWA’s membership. To suggest a subject (or to volunteer
yourself!), please contact Annie Fifer at annefifer@gmail.com.
December 2019 / January 2020 AWARE 5
FEATURE
Spanish
OUR
Summer Una
Degree Program: Bachelor
of Arts Cultural Studies,
Year 4
Internship: Product
Catching Up with AWA’s development for Future
Genius, maker of educational
Lingnan University games for marginalized
children (Barcelona)
Scholarship Recipients Una already felt
passionate about utilizing
social media platforms to
By Augusta Nichols-Even, Education and Scholarship Chair
give a voice to marginalized groups, particularly around
gender discrimination. Working closely with David, the
impassioned founder of Future Genius, sparked Una’s
I HAD THE privilege of catching up with the three Lingnan imagination to develop educational games for students with
University students to whom the AWA awarded scholarships specific needs, such as ADHD students in Hong Kong and
for summer internships abroad last spring. Mary, Una and China. She credits the experience with making her “more
Rabia spent six weeks in Spain gaining valuable experience self-sufficient, adaptive, and globally informed.”
living in Europe and working with startups. For all three, this
was their first experience living away from home and having Rabia
to be self-sufficient. Degree Program: Bachelor
These impressive young women, true to their generation, of Business Administration
are certain to find ways to contribute to society in the future. Marketing, Year 4
They are especially grateful to the AWA for affording them Internship: Market research
this valuable experience. and promotional design and
production for Elzerouno, a
marketing communications
Mary and game design company
Degree Program: Bachelor of (Madrid)
Arts (Honors) Translation, Rabia, inspired by Malala
Year 3 Yousafzai and the fight for
Internship: Script translation women’s rights, already described herself as “determined,
for Cloud Guide, a mobile hard-working, creative” when we interviewed her for the
app for tourists (Barcelona) scholarship. Her market research for Elzerouno was so
Mary learned sign compelling, the company is expanding to Asia. And she was
language growing up to entrusted with launching a Kickstarter campaign for a new
communicate with her deaf game, conceptualizing the reward to attract contributors: a
parents. Out of this grew a limited-stock custom game controller. She then researched
passion for language, manufacturers in China and signed a deal in the final week of
influencing her choice to study translation. Over the course of her internship, receiving praise and a job offer upon
the internship she found her speaking voice, which came graduation.
across clearly in her new confidence communicating in
English. Because of this program, she said, “I feel more
knowledgeable, more passionate, and have a stronger belief
in what I am doing.”
6 AWARE December 2019 / January 2020
FEATURE
Calling All English Speakers:
AWA’s Local School Programs Need YOU!
“One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can
change the world.” —Malala Yousafzai
English language volunteering in local schools has been
a pillar of the AWA for decades, spearheaded by women
who honor the next generation by sharing the gift of
education. Every English language program we currently
offer is in need of fresh volunteers this year to fill the shoes of
those who have left Hong Kong. In Mei Foo, the Kei Chun
Primary School alone has 17 volunteer opportunities open
(see chart, right); classrooms full of children eager to learn
from you. You may leave a lasting impression that can
change the world.
Email coordinator Shirley Andruko at andruko@shaw.ca to
learn more about the Mei Foo program or to sign up. Email
addresses for all other program coordinators are listed on the
Contact Information page at the back of this magazine.
December 2019 / January 2020 AWARE 7
FEATURE
Thick Air in Hong Kong?
Insights from the Experts
By Andrea Roth
IF YOU HAVE BEEN in Hong Kong in the past
two months, you have noticed those days when
visibility was low and the view out of the window
was hazy. The air seemed to be of a grayish to
yellowish color, and you might even have felt a
bit of a scratchy feeling in your throat. In short,
the air pollution level was so high that you
couldn’t help but see and feel it. You are not
alone. Ninety-one percent of the world’s
population lives in places where air quality
exceeds World Health Organization (WHO)
guideline limits.
While there is little you can do about the air
quality, you can still make informed decisions on
how to react to high levels of air pollution. This is
why the AWA Environmental Committee
organized a panel discussion about Hong Kong
air on October 18. Here is what we learned from
L to R: Dr. Michelle Wong, Dave Ho, Sonalie Figueiras, Chiara Rodriquez, Patrick Fung
the very knowledgeable speakers who shared
facts, insights and tips with us. neurodevelopment and childhood obesity. Dr. Ho stated that
pollutants harmful to fetuses have even been detected in the
Why does air pollution matter and who is placenta of pregnant women. Moderator Sonalie Figueras,
at risk? the founder of the Green Queen website, added that a recent
According to Dr. Michelle Wong, senior communications university study in China found a link between “silent
manager at the Hong Kong University of Science and miscarriages” and high levels of air pollutants. Other
Technology (HKUST), air pollution contributes to 7 million vulnerable groups include the elderly, people with heart and
deaths globally every year, including deaths due to strokes, lung conditions and people with already stressed body
heart and lung diseases and cancer. Several air pollutants defense systems, such as smokers.
have been identified as potentially harmful to our health,
especially fine particulate matter, often referred to as PM2.5. How bad is the air in Hong Kong and what
High PM2.5 readings are considered a risk for long-term are the main causes?
health, as those particles can deposit in the lungs and other It came as a surprise to me that the air quality in Hong Kong
organs. Ozone, another air pollutant, poses the highest risk has improved substantially over the past six years. Yet
for short-term health. Dr. Marco Ho, the president of the Hong despite the progress, pollution levels are still too high,
Kong Institute of Allergy, confirmed a correlation between exceeding the guideline limits recommended by the WHO.
excessive ground-level ozone and asthma episodes, Pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and PM2.5 can be
especially in children. captured at the source or reduced by eliminating the
Young children are particularly vulnerable as they breathe sources, such as diesel vehicles or sulfur-rich fuel for vessels.
more often and their respiratory systems are still developing. Ozone can’t be as easily controlled, as it is formed by
Patrick Fung, CEO of the Clean Air Network, a local NGO, chemical reaction and influenced by a combination of factors.
explained that air pollution can affect children’s health in In California, for example, it took more than 40 years to bring
many ways, including not only respiratory problems such as the ozone levels down to the recommended level, said David
asthma, chronic bronchitis or reduced lung function, but also Ho, assistant director of the Hong Kong government’s
8 AWARE December 2019 / January 2020FEATURE
Environmental Protection Department (Air Policy Division). air pollution even further, as Dr. Wong explained. They have
Vehicle emissions are responsible for 90% of roadside air developed the app PRAISE-HK, which provides real-time
pollution, Fung explained. Their impact is increased in urban and forecasted air quality and health risk information down to
areas through the “street canyon effect,” caused by high the street where you are located. The data are generated by
buildings on both sides of the street that create a wind a complex and very comprehensive modeling system that
shadow and trap emissions. uses artificial intelligence. Comparison between modeled air
The improvement of the air quality in Hong Kong has quality data and measured air quality (using sensors on
been achieved through a mix of government policies. One smart lamp poles) in a test area in East Kowloon confirms
important factor is the close cooperation with Guangdong PRAISE-HK’s data to be over 90% accurate.
province, as air doesn’t stop at frontiers. The cooperation
includes the management of a regional monitoring network What can you do?
and the joint establishment of emission reduction targets. Dr. Ho, of the Hong Kong Institute of Allergy, has three
Yet there remains a lot to do. Fung suggested looking at recommendations: First, take vitamins E and C to defend
other cities worldwide for potential future air quality against the effects of ozone. Second, don’t engage in
improvement policies, such as introducing traffic-free areas outdoor exercise when air pollution levels reach very high
in the city or banning sales of cars that run on fossil fuels. He levels (red or brown on AQHI). Outdoor exercise at those
also pointed out that environmental injustice exists in Hong levels will be harmful for everyone, not just vulnerable
Kong. Schoolchildren, who spend their days in poorly populations. Finally, wearing a mask might help to prevent
ventilated school buildings, and roadside workers, for the worst effects, if only to defend against viruses that are
example, are exposed to higher health risks on days with often activated by high air pollution.
high air pollution. He demanded to formulate a plan to Dr. Wong advises using the forecasting data of PRAISE-
improve air quality for everyone in the community. HK to make informed decisions about the best time and
location for a family outing, for example. The HKUST team is
What is the best way to inform yourself in the process of refining the app to allow for personal
about the current and forecasted levels of exposure tracking and personal symptom reports.
air pollution? A big thank-you to the panelists, Dave Ho, Dr. Marco Ho,
There are several apps and websites that inform users about Dr. Michelle Wong and Patrick Fung; to moderator Sonalie
the current air quality in Hong Kong. What’s confusing Figueras; to Chiara Rodriquez, chair of the AWA
though is that they tend to give different measurements and Environmental Committee, for having organized such a
assessments of the level of air pollution. As I write this article, brilliant panel discussion; and to Explorium Hong Kong for
the current air quality is rated as fair by Australia, moderate generously sponsoring a fabulous venue for the event.
(6) by Hong Kong and red (exceeding the maximum level of
ozone by 123%) by the WHO. The reasons
for these different assessments are
threefold: first, not all indices take into
account the same air pollutants; second,
they base their evaluation on different
health guideline limits per pollutant; and
third, they weigh the importance of single
pollutants within the combined index
differently.
The Hong Kong government uses
AQHI, a health-based air quality index.
Thirteen general and three roadside
stations deliver data that are then evaluated
against 10 levels of health risks, based on
the correlation between level of air pollution
and hospital admissions. As ozone has the
highest impact on short-term health, it’s
weighed as the most important factor in the
AQHI. While levels of almost all pollutants have decreased, levels of ozone (O3) have increased
HKUST has improved information about strongly. Chart courtesy of David Ho, assistant director, Environmental Protection
Department (Air Policy Division)
December 2019 / January 2020 AWARE 9Have you wondered where the money raised from the many AWA activities,
G N I S I A R D N U F
fundraising events and membership fee goes? Many AWA members, both
new and old, may be curious how we fund the work that we do.
A W A
W H E R E D O E S
Y O U R M O N E Y G O ?
Revenues from fees and advertising support essential
R E V E N U E overhead expenses including our office, utilities and salaries.
MEMBERSHIP FEE ASIAN TOURS FUNDRAISING EVENTS
ADMIN FEE
BAZAAR, FASHION SHOW, GALA + MORE!
The net revenue earned via
fundraising events is used to fund
our charitable giving & scholarships
HOW DO WE DECIDE WHERE TO GIVE?
LOCAL TOURS ADVERTISING
(AWARE MAGAZINE, NEWSLETTER)
ADMIN FEE
AWA Charitable Donations
Committee (CDC) has a rigorous
process to vet local Hong Kong
charities for distribution of our
fundraising dollars
E X P E N D I T U R E
WHO DO WE GIVE OUR MONEY TO?
UTILITIES SALARIES
OFFICE EXPENSES PROFESSIONAL
10 AWARE December 2019 / January
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December 2019 / January 2020 AWARE 11FEATURE
Introducing the Champion,
Alisa Camplin By Vasavi Seethepalli
An Olympic gold medalist and motivational speaker, Alisa talks about her transition to success
THE FIRST Australian woman to win a gold medal at the
Winter Olympics, aerial skier Alisa Camplin overcame many
barriers to pursue her passions — from learning to ski at the
age of 19 to setting up her own consultancy business. At the
time of her Olympic victory in 2002, she was also working as
a senior executive at IBM. Camplin now works with both small
and large organizations across various industries to help
them achieve success in a competitive world.
You were slated to speak about career transitions
at AWA WISE’s November event (currently being
rescheduled). How does the subject relate to you?
I’ve had many significant transitions in my professional
career. More generally, I’ve been continuously evolving for
two decades, and I’m always working to narrow the gap
between the life I’m living and the life I desire.
From a very young age, I was inclined towards elite sport.
While studying for a double degree in IT and business, I took
up skiing so I could become an aerial skier. I joined IBM after
graduating and began training for the Olympics, working on
my basics and doing my first somersaults. For a few years I
enthusiastically juggled a sports career parallel to my
accelerating professional career. Eventually, as I got closer to
the Olympics, I needed to take unpaid leave from IBM to
100% focus on achieving my ultimate potential as an athlete.
After winning the gold medal in 2002 at Salt Lake City, I
did a lot of ambassadorial work with large organizations
around the world, including IBM, while remaining the No. 1
aerialist in the world. I faced a lot of emotional and physical
setbacks during that period, so I was happy to retire after
taking the bronze medal at the 2006 Winter Olympics in
Torino. Satisfied with my sporting endeavors, I returned to
IBM in order to reboot myself as a professional. really enabled me to grow holistically. Sadly though, our son,
Initially, I felt like a fish out of water, as I had matured Finnan, passed away ten days after birth with a congenital
considerably and been through some unique high- heart disease. It was a complex space to be in, and so I
performance experiences. But with patience and hard work, I resigned from IBM.
gained respect from my peers and was promoted from sales Quite quickly thereafter many new opportunities opened
into a management and leadership role in the Technical up — I was invited to join the board [of] a large government
Services division. Having established a good repute, I agency, I was asked to mentor [the] CEO of a medium-sized
eventually took on [an executive] Strategy and Transformation startup…Before I knew it, I had a new portfolio, which now
role for IBM Global Technology Services [in] UK and Ireland. expanded to become very fulfilling — being a company
From that point, my next big transition came when I fell director, keynote speaker, consultant, philanthropist, brand
pregnant. Despite being uncomfortable with the concept of ambassador, regular TV commentator and performance
slowing down my career and going on maternity leave, it manager to Australia’s Winter Olympic team.
12 AWARE December 2019 / January 2020FEATURE
How did you find your current niche as a What were the challenges you faced moving to
consultant in the resilience, mindset and high- Hong Kong?
performance space? I moved to Hong Kong predominantly for my husband’s
Still being highly active in elite sport means I have the work. Until then, we had both been chasing all our
continued privilege of working with world-class sports professional opportunities, so I felt a bit vulnerable stepping
psychologists. Performance psychology enabled me to back to be a trailing spouse for the good of our team. I knew
achieve my dream in sport and more importantly, it equipped it was an opportunity of a lifetime for my family, and I’ve
me to survive the grief of losing my son. I realized then that I always pursued an adventurous life, and here it was. While
was eager to help others to become more resilient. I could settling in my children, I worked hard to find new support
introduce skills and help everyday working people to structures and to understand how things work here. To gain
implement mindset, performance psychology and behavioral traction professionally, I utilized my Australian and
science tools and techniques that would help them become international contacts, and proactively connected with as
their best self — personally and professionally. many people as I could. I also took on early pro bono work to
prove my worth. We love it here in Hong Kong and I look
Tell us a bit more about your passion project. forward to all that the years ahead have in store for me.
Losing our son Finnan to congenital heart disease (CHD) was
heartbreaking. My husband and I wanted to raise awareness What is the most common misconception people
of CHD and to change the game in some way, so that other have when getting back to work or starting
patients and their families wouldn’t need to suffer like we had. something new?
So we created a charity called Finnan’s Gift, and we’ve People expect to feel comfortable, know and understand
raised more than AU$2.5million to date in support of cardiac everything, and be at ease more quickly than is realistic.
care at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. Consequently, they judge themselves too soon, which only
leads to self-doubt that actually impedes performance. You
How would you describe yourself in a few words? should step back from your expectations and have some
Real, practical, grateful and courageous, because I’m always trust as you navigate this early phase.
taking on new challenges and pushing outside my comfort
zone. I love learning and enjoy surrounding myself with How do you balance being a mother and a
people who are experts in their field. Excellence is a personal professional?
value of mine; I am very results-oriented and I’m passionate Hong Kong is a great place to be a working parent. The
about helping other people achieve their highest potential. question I always ask myself is: What’s the right balance for
my children and me right now? I try to compartmentalize
What has motivated you to get to where you are based on my priorities so I can be fully present and maximize
and what advice would you have for others who my time and focus, whether I have my mom hat on or my
want to set off in a similar direction? work hat.
Shifting careers can be daunting. If you
have passion for what you wish to What are you excited about and
pursue, then invest heavily in the looking forward to in the future?
preparation that’s required for success. Delivering my resilience and high-
Whether it is learning more on a performance workshops here in Hong
particular subject, taking courses/ Kong and across Asia is extremely
workshops, seeking expert advice, satisfying, because I can really see the
goal planning or scenario planning, it impact on people and organizations
will elevate your confidence and set alike. By delivering a series of
you off in the right direction. Nobody concurrent workshops within a
can be 100% ready for what’s to come, company, I get to support people/teams
but you will be more agile and ready to on a journey and help them to build the
pivot quickly and maximize traction that enables sustainable high-
opportunities if you put in a little effort performance results. I feel incredibly
upfront. Be ruthless about your time fortunate that I get to be a part of
and priorities and ask your friends and unlocking that here in Asia.
family for their support; then you will be
more prepared to jump and land!
December 2019 / January 2020 AWARE 13FEATURE
Maligayang Pasko!
How Overseas Filipinos Celebrate Christmas
By Vanessa Lenzlinger and Carmela Gollogley
FILIPINOS ARE big into Christmas. How big? Filipinos make Once their boxes are signed, sealed and delivered, what
the 12 days of Christmas look lame — they get started on the is left then for Filipino helpers to do during Christmas?
festivities four months before. If it’s a month ending in “-ber,” Unfortunately, most would be hard-pressed to find the
you can guarantee that you’ll be hearing Christmas songs in opportunity to celebrate the two big Filipino Christmas
Philippine shopping malls. This comes as no surprise, as 84 traditions here in Hong Kong — the nine-day series of pre-
million, or roughly 82.9% of Filipinos profess to be Catholics. dawn Masses called Simbang Gabi, and Noche Buena, a
Filipino helpers in Hong Kong certainly find ways to take Christmas Eve feast.
part in the Christmas festivities back home. Their blood, Thankfully, Filipinos are active churchgoers who find
sweat and tears are literally boxed in special “balikbayan opportunities to celebrate the season by hearing Mass and
boxes” (balikbayan means “return home” in Tagalog). In the attending church-based Christmas parties. Some parishes
months leading up to Christmas, helpers look out for bargains hold parties for the English-speaking community, which is
and meticulously add gifts to this box to send to their families predominantly composed of helpers, so they can get a
back in the Philippines. chance to sing or dance in a Christmas program and
Balikbayan boxes are special because there are no exchange gifts. It is said that going to church is the one
weight restrictions and the contents are exempt from constant that grounds a Filipino when he or she is living
Philippine duties and taxes, so
helpers can fill up the box with
just about anything they like:
chocolates, biscuits, plush
towels, bed linen, toys, soap,
clothes, shoes, kitchenware, the
list goes on.
Some consider the boxes the
culmination of all their hard work.
A lot of love, time and money
goes into these boxes, especially
if the senders are not able to
come home for Christmas. There
is pressure, not only from the immediate family but possibly overseas, so attending Mass on Christmas Day is a tradition
also from extended family who are looking forward to that they can hold on to, wherever they are. And Hong Kong
receiving presents, so depending on where their family lives, is no exception.
some helpers will send out boxes as early as October to If the helper is lucky enough to go home for Christmas,
make sure they arrive by Christmas. there is the added pressure of being greeted by family and
Sending balikbayan boxes is a massive operation that friends who come out of the woodwork at the faintest whiff of
happens not only in Hong Kong, but anywhere in the world the family’s top earner. Kids especially will knock on their
where the 2.3 million overseas Filipino workers (OFW) live. If door, wishing them “Merry Christmas” and expecting a bit of
you walk past World-Wide House, the Filipino-centric cash. This is why some helpers choose to come home for
shopping arcade in Central, during December you will hear graduation month in March instead.
the ripping sounds of packing tape as they seal their boxes to Nonetheless, the majority of helpers see it as a wonderful
send to loved ones in the Philippines. According to a survey welcome, as this is the one time that they can see all their
conducted by HelperChoice in 2017, 89% of helpers will family and friends in one festive occasion. It’s worth facing
send gifts to their families — which is why more than half of the pressure and the expectations in order to be able to
them would prefer to receive cash as a Christmas gift from finally hug their loved ones, sit at the table, come together as
their employers. a family and celebrate the season of giving.
14 AWARE December 2019 / January 2020December 2019 / January 2020 AWARE 15
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FEATURE
It’s Not a Party Without Bubbles…
Seven sparkling wines to kick off the festive season
By Nimmi Malhotra
THE FESTIVE SEASON is knocking at the door. Bring out unfortunate reputation of being cheap but my pick below,
your party wear, high heels and pop open the sparkling wine! made by Gramona, begs to differ.
Whether you’re drinking a vintage Champagne or youthful
Prosecco, there’s something special about a flute filled with New World Offerings
tiny bubbles rising up to celebrate the season’s best with you. Every wine-producing nation offers a sparkling wine, but it’s
Before I embarked on my wine studies diploma, bubbles the ones inspired by Champagne that you want to go for.
meant Champagne. Since then, the world of fizz has opened Look out for sparkling wines from Tasmania, South African
up and revealed its secrets! Fine sparkling wines are made wines labeled “MCC” (for méthode cap classique), and my
all over the world, not just in Champagne, and you can find a selection below from Napa.
vast selection right here in Hong Kong. I’ve tasted through
hundreds of wines and here are my recommendations for the The Top Seven
best bubbles to liven up your next soiree. Ruinart Blanc de Blancs; recommended retail price (RRP)
HK$680
The Champagnes Ruinart is one of the oldest Champagne houses and
Champagnes come from the region of Champagne, France produces the finest blanc de blancs (Champagne made only
and are made with any or all of the following grapes: with chardonnay grapes). It is a complex wine with notes of
chardonnay, pinot noir and the lesser-known pinot meunier. white peach, flowers, honey and pastry. Enjoy it with white
This hallowed land is renowned for its ancient chalky white fish tartare or salt and pepper squid.
soils and its rich history and tradition. Champagne’s method Delamotte Brut Non-Vintage (NV); RRP HK$488
makes it unique — the méthode traditionnelle involves two A much smaller house, Delamotte is a gem. It is unofficially
fermentations, the second of which takes place in the bottle, the second label of the prestigious house of Salon, and gets
developing the finesse of the bubbles and aroma profile over access to any grape Salon doesn’t deem worthy of its name
time. (and HK$4000-plus price tag). The non-vintage brut is stylish,
elegant and always a safe bet.
Proseccos and Other Italian Sparkling Nicolas Feuillatte Brut NV; RRP HK$400
Wines It’s the top-selling Champagne in France and is now sold in
Proseccos are made with the Glera grape in northeast Italy. Hong Kong. Nicolas Feuillatte is not a big brand name, but a
The wine is fruity with softer bubbles and floral notes. It’s not farmer’s cooperative. They produce an honest and friendly
nearly as complex as Champagne, because it doesn’t want wine, approachable in taste and price. For pairing, I would go
to be. Prosecco is a sparkling wine in its own right, and its for cheese or oysters. At HK$400, it’s a spectacularly priced
youthful verve livens any party. Champagne!
In addition to Prosecco, Italy has its own version of Bisol Crede Prosecco 2014; RRP HK$170
Champagne, called Franciacorta. Made in the north near With delicate flavors of hay, honeysuckle and citrus, this is a
Milan with chardonnay and pinot noir grapes, it follows the lovely Prosecco to start the evening. It has a milder mousse,
same traditional method as Champagne, with a concerted or head, and a softer acidity, so drink it on its own or pair with
focus on quality. light aperitifs like cold cuts or vegetable crudités.
Schramsberg Brut Rose, North Coast 2016; RRP HK$528
Cava This Napa star is the preferred sparkling wine brand served
Spain offers a bright, bubbly, budget-friendly wine, cava. It’s at White House state dinners. Look for notes of peach, melon,
painstakingly made with the traditional method, using local lemon curd and biscuit. Pair with seafood — crab cakes,
grapes or chardonnay. Cavas have the calamari fritters — or mushroom-based entrées.
Gramona Cava, Argent Gran Reserva 2011; RRP HK$328
The Argent uses chardonnay and pinot noir grown in
Penedès, Spain. The acid profile is softer and fruit a little riper
and rounded. Pair with chicken and creamy vegetables.
Ca’ del Bosco Franciocorta Cuvee Prestige Brut NV; RRP
HK$268
Citrus notes, dried fruit and brioche pastry mark this
Franciocorta. The bubbles are delicate and elegant with a
complex finish.
December 2019 / January 2020 AWARE 21CALENDAR - UPCOMING EVENTS
Festive Shopping Morning and Lunch at The Peninsula Cooking with Passion: A Taste of India – 2
When: Monday, 2 December, 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM (Approx.) When: Wednesday, 8 January, 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Register by Friday, 29 November (Approx.)
Cooking Demo and Lunch Series: Discover Japanese Arts/Crafts & Design Series: I Love HK Skyline Collages
Food and Ingredients and Walking Tour When: Monday, 13 January, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
When: Tuesday, 3 December, 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
(Approx.) Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Series:
Register by Friday, 29 November Understanding Your Body Constitution
When: Tuesday, 14 January, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Educational Series: The Hong Kong Academy of Flower
Arrangement Educational Series: Ethnic Heritage Presentation and
When: Tuesday, 3 December, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Lunch on Lamma Island
(Approx.) When: Wednesday, 15 January, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Register by Tuesday, 19 November Register by Sunday, 13 January
Educational Series – Historical Talk with Jason Wordie: Mental Mastery for Manifestation: Make a Wish Come
Women in 20th Century Hong Kong True
When: Thursday, 5 December, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM When: Thursday, 16 January, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Register by Wednesday, 4 December (Approx.)
Register by Saturday, 11 January
Entertainment Series: High Tea at The Drawing Room, St.
Regis Hotel Lunch Series: Al Fresco Lunch and Prosecco Reception
When: Friday, 6 December, 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Approx.) at Cucina
Register by Friday, 29 November When: Friday, 17 January, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Approx.)
Educational Series – Walking Tour with Jason Wordie: Cooking with Passion: A Taste of Southeast Asia – 3
”The Gin Drinkers Line”- Shing Mun Park WWII Tunnels (Domestic Helpers Class)
When: Saturday, 7 December, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM When: Wednesday, 22 January, 11:00 AM – 12:45 PM
(Approx.) (Approx.)
Register by Wednesday, 4 December
Educational Series – Walking Tour with Jason Wordie: Looking Forward
Kennedy Town
When: Thursday, 12 December, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM February
(Approx.)
Register by Tuesday, 10 December Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Series: Matching
Your Diet to Your Body's Needs
Cooking Demo and Lunch Series: Natalia's Ukrainian When: Tuesday, 11 February, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Christmas Cooking
When: Tuesday, 7 January, 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM (Approx.)
22 AWARE December 2019 / January 2020LOCAL TOURS AND ACTIVITIES
Festive Shopping Morning and Lunch at yourself. Then on to Fortnum & Mason in the new K11
The Peninsula Musea mall for more shopping, followed by lunch at The
WHEN: Monday, 2 December, 9:30 AM – Peninsula’s Verandah restaurant, where dazzling
2:30 PM (Approx.) Christmas decorations will be abundant. (Lunch and
Register by Friday, 29 November drinks will be at shared expense.)
WHERE: Meet at TST Star Ferry Terminal, lower
deck exit (Exact location will be
emailed to participants)
COST: $60 member/$120 member’s guest
CAPACITY: 8 min/10 max (excluding coordinator)
COORDINATOR(S): Camilla Born 9836 9691
Susanne Salg 9175 6909
Your merriest Christmas begins here at our festive
shopping morning. Our day starts with a visit to Rio Pearl
in TST, where you will find a huge array of the finest
pearls: South Sea, cultured and freshwater. Pearls are
perfect as a gift for a loved one or even as a treat for
Cooking Demo and Lunch Series: Discover COST: $660 member/$720 member’s guest
Japanese Food and Ingredients and CAPACITY: 10 min/15 max
Walking Tour COORDINATOR(S): Susan Putnam 6272 6700
WHEN: Tuesday, 3 December, 10:30 AM – 2:00 Theresa Lam founded the Hong Kong Academy of Flower
PM (Approx.) Arrangement in 1989 under the belief that Hong Kong could
Register by Friday, 29 November be the best floral arts center in the region. After managing a
WHERE: Meet at Tai Koo MTR station, Exit A2 flower shop for three years, Theresa found herself more keen
COST: $610 member/$670 member’s guest to teach and learned her flower arrangement skills in Europe,
CAPACITY: 4 min/8 max with inspiration from her Japanese teachers. At this class, we
COORDINATOR(S): Mayu Okada 5248 0788 will make a Christmas table decoration, and at the end of the
Where can I get real Japanese ingredients, wagyu beef and session, you will have a completed floral arrangement that
fresh sushi-grade fish in Hong Kong? What is sushi vinegar? you can take home to adorn your dining room table.
Are all soy sauces the same? A Le Cordon Bleu Paris-trained
Japanese chef who has worked for the French Ministry of Educational Series – Historical Talk with
Foreign Affairs in Paris, Mayu will walk with you, visiting Jason Wordie: Women in 20th Century
reasonable Japanese supermarkets and shops to explain Hong Kong
good-quality Japanese ingredients and products. Tastes of WHEN: Thursday, 5 December, 10:00 AM – 11:30
various ingredients and foods, as well as lunch, are included AM
in the price. Please bring your Octopus card, as we may use Register by Wednesday, 4 December
public transportation to visit shops. WHERE: AWA Office
COST: $330 member/$390 member’s guest
Educational Series: The Hong Kong CAPACITY: 10 min/25 max
Academy of Flower Arrangement COORDINATOR(S): Susan Soskin West 9191 1503
WHEN: Tuesday, 3 December, 11:00 AM – 12:30 Women in 20th-century Hong Kong were not just “trailing
PM (Approx.) spouses.” They were reformers, revolutionaries, and
Register by Tuesday, 19 November everything in between. This talk will cover everything from the
No refunds will be given at any time. “horse sisters” to Suzie Wong to literary figures, the first
WHERE: The Hong Kong Academy of Flower female vicar, and politicians. Join local historian Jason
Arrangement, Wan Chai (Exact location Wordie as he highlights the tremendous societal changes in
will be emailed to participants) Hong Kong during the 20th century that led to the profound
December 2019 / January 2020 AWARE 23LOCAL TOURS AND ACTIVITIES
transformation of the role of women. Broad international and reservoir’s capture by the Japanese, water supplies to urban
local circumstances contributed to this evolution and these areas, particularly those on Hong Kong Island, were critically
changes are tracked through the fascinating lives and affected; this desperate situation materially affected the
careers of various women from diverse backgrounds, eventual outcome of the Hong Kong campaign. Bring a torch
educational levels, and socioeconomic circumstances who and come prepared for an unexpected — and very scenic
all made their homes in Hong Kong. You will find even the —experience of Hong Kong’s recent past.
word karaoke has an interesting twist!
Entertainment Series: High Tea at The
Drawing Room, St. Regis Hotel
WHEN: Friday, 6 December, 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM
(Approx.)
Register by Friday, 29 November
WHERE: Meet at St. Regis Hotel lobby, Wan Chai
(Exact location will be emailed to
participants)
COST: $60 member/$120 member’s guest
CAPACITY: 10 min/20 max
COORDINATOR(S): Susan Putnam 6272 6700
Kimberley Kleczka 9337 3683
From France to England, the wonderfully old-school tradition
of afternoon tea remains popular — all dainty teapots, petits Educational Series – Walking Tour with
fours and perfectly cut sandwiches. Tea at the St. Regis is Jason Wordie: Kennedy Town
served in The Drawing Room, where you can enjoy WHEN: Thursday, 12 December, 9:00 AM –
uninterrupted views of the terrace as you snack on 12:00 PM (Approx.)
cucumber sandwiches and mini éclairs served from trolleys Register by Tuesday, 10 December
inspired by traditional dim sum carts, which allow guests to WHERE: Meet at HKU MTR station, Exit A (Exact
pick and choose from a selection of sweet and savory location will be emailed to participants)
options. The high tea will be at a shared cost of HK$388 per COST: $440 member/$500 member’s guest
person. CAPACITY: 10 min/18 max
COORDINATOR(S): Susan Soskin West 9191 1503
Educational Series – Walking Tour with At the extreme western end of Hong Kong Island, Kennedy
Jason Wordie: “The Gin Drinkers Line”- Town is often overlooked. By the 1870s it was recognized
Shing Mun Park WWII Tunnels that the city of Victoria (approximately Sheung Wan, Central,
WHEN: Saturday, 7 December, 9:30 AM – 12:30 Wan Chai and Causeway Bay) was developed almost
PM (Approx.) beyond its existing capacity; Kennedy Town thus emerged
Register by Wednesday, 4 December as one of the first efforts at urban decentralization in Hong
WHERE: Meet at Tsuen Wan MTR station (Exact Kong. Tucked away amongst new developments are
location will be emailed to participants) examples of interwar architectural styles, temples and some
COST: $440 member/$500 member’s guest very significant military relics. One of the most surprising
CAPACITY: 10 min/18 max sites we will visit is the Lo Pan Temple, on the steep network
COORDINATOR(S): Susan Soskin West 9191 1503 of hillside terraces between Kennedy Town and Hong Kong
Looking for an exciting way to spend Saturday morning? Visit University. Dedicated to the patron saint of carpenters, the
Shing Mun, one of Hong Kong’s most famous parks, and see temple is an architectural jewel. Long-established shops,
the surviving WWII tunnels and emplacements of the prewar operating for decades, add to the bustling atmosphere along
Inner Line — popularly referred to as the “Gin Drinker’s the last remaining stretch of rocky shoreline on the northern
Line.” Local historian Jason Wordie will guide us through the coast of Hong Kong Island. Join local historian Jason Wordie
extensive defensive complex that extended right across the to explore the dramatic evolution of this fast-changing
Kowloon hills from Gin Drinker’s Bay to Port Shelter and neighborhood.
explain how and why these tunnels were built and
subsequently defended. The extensive wartime sights
played a fundamental role in the tense years that led up to
the eventual defense of Hong Kong in 1941. After the
24 AWARE December 2019 / January 2020LOCAL TOURS AND ACTIVITIES
Cooking Demo and Lunch Series: Natalia’s Arts/Crafts & Design Series: I Love HK
Ukrainian Christmas Cooking Skyline Collages
WHEN: Tuesday, 7 January, 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM WHEN: Monday, 13 January, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
(Approx.) WHERE: Wild at Art Studio, Central (Exact location
WHERE: Tseung Kwan O (Exact location will be will be emailed to participants)
emailed to participants) COST: $1260 member/$1320 member’s guest
COST: $560 member/$620 member’s guest CAPACITY: 4 min/14 max (excluding coordinator)
CAPACITY: 3 min/5 max (excluding coordinator) COORDINATOR(S): Natalia Morrison 6415 9880
COORDINATOR(S): Natalia Morrison 6415 9880 We are all here because, one way or another, we love Asia’s
January 7 is Ukrainian Christmas! Learn how to make World City: Hong Kong! This wonderful melting pot of races
authentic Ukrainian pyrohy (also known as pierogies or and cultures affords us all a way of being that is different
potato dumplings), holubtsi (cabbage rolls) and sauerkraut from our own home country. It is a place of spectacular
soup using some of Natalia’s mother’s favorite family recipes. views, both natural and manmade, as well as iconic
These recipes are in Home Cooking East & West, which structures, scenes and other quirks. And it is a home in need
Natalia wrote with her helper, Elsa. of love right now! Come and create your very own homage to
Hong Kong in the form of your own artwork. You will be
guided to blend paint and collage methods to create a HK
scene of your choice; you may choose a skyline, a beach, or
island view.
Cooking with Passion: A Taste of India – 2
WHEN: Wednesday, 8 January, 11:00 AM – 1:30
PM (Approx.)
WHERE: 41A Stubbs Road, Villa Monte Rosa,
Block C, 9 Floor, Flat 1 Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
COST: $390 member/$450 member’s guest Series: Understanding Your Body
CAPACITY: 5 min/8 max (excluding coordinator) Constitution
COORDINATOR(S): Lavinia Hemandas 2838 2199/9090 0931 WHEN: Tuesday, 14 January, 11:00 AM – 1:00
Join our very own Lavinia Hemandas in her many popular PM
Cooking with Passion classes to learn the secrets that will WHERE: AWA Office
excite your palate and delight your family and friends. She COST: $540 member/$600 member’s guest
will show you how to turn simple recipes into a gourmet’s CAPACITY: 10 min/30 max
delight! A sit-down lunch will be served with wine. Spice COORDINATOR(S): Natalia Morrison 6415 9880
packs will also be available upon request. Today’s menu: Does it puzzle you when you’ve been eating healthy foods
mughlai murgh (moghul chicken in a rich saffron almond and exercising regularly but you still feel fatigued and low in
sauce); gobi bhaji (sautéed cauliflower with herbs and energy? Join Chinese medicine practitioner Claire Hiu Ling
delectable spices); and samosa (crispy golden triangles Cheng in this seminar, where she will help you begin to see
filled with spicy potatoes, onions and peas). your body through the lens of traditional Chinese medicine
(TCM). Claire will show you how to identify your body’s
current “constitution” and will give you some tips on how to
improve your health according to TCM teachings.
December 2019 / January 2020 AWARE 25LOCAL TOURS AND ACTIVITIES
Educational Series: Ethnic Heritage Lunch Series: Al Fresco Lunch and
Presentation and Lunch on Lamma Island Prosecco Reception at Cucina
WHEN: Wednesday, 15 January, 10:00 AM – WHEN: Friday, 17 January, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
3:00 PM (Approx.)
Register by Sunday, 13 January WHERE: Meet at Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel
WHERE: Meet at Central Ferry Pier 4 (Lamma) lobby (Exact location will be emailed to
COST: $330 member/$390 member’s guest participants)
CAPACITY: 8 min/18 max COST: $442 member/$502 member’s guest
COORDINATOR(S): Karen Womick 6316 7737 CAPACITY: 3 min/15 max
Tracey-Lee Hayes 9130 0851 COORDINATOR(S): Susanne Salg 9175 6909
Join local heritage expert and photographer Paul Kwok- Enjoy a seasonal Italian lunch and prosecco reception al
leung at his delightful studio on Lamma Island for a fresco on the Cucina terrace overlooking the dramatic
photographic presentation featuring the extraordinarily rich Victoria Harbor skyline. After enjoying a glass of prosecco,
diversity of people, culture and heritage in Southern China we will have lunch: a choice of pasta entree or wood-fired
and Hong Kong. From the well-preserved ancient culture of pizza, antipasti buffet (salad bar, daily soup, cold cuts,
minority tribes in the remote hills of southeast Guizhou, to the cheese, seafood), dessert buffet, and coffee/tea. Cost
former British colony of Hong Kong, we will compare how includes tax and gratuity.
they developed through time to the present day. Paul will
discuss Chinese dynasties, migration, ethnicity, folk religion,
deities, clans, ancestor worship, heritage festivals, ethnic
textiles, crafts and costumes. Lunch will be at shared
expense at a local restaurant.
Mental Mastery for Manifestation: Make a
Wish Come True
WHEN: Thursday, 16 January, 10:00 AM – 11:30
AM (Approx.)
Register by Saturday, 11 January
WHERE: AWA Office
COST: $380 member/$440 member’s guest
CAPACITY: 5 min/12 max
COORDINATOR(S): Yelena Zakharova 9726 2378
Would you like to make a wish come true this year? The Cooking with Passion: A Taste of
ability to turn a dream into reality is a lot like having a Southeast Asia – 3 (Domestic Helpers
superpower, but it isn’t reserved exclusively for elite athletes Class)
and uber-professionals! Being mindful, developing useful WHEN: Wednesday, 22 January, 11:00 AM –
habits and clarifying your mental goals are essential to any 12:45 PM (Approx.)
type of manifestation. In this short workshop, you will learn WHERE: 41A Stubbs Road, Villa Monte Rosa,
the steps to successful manifestation. You will gain mental Block C, 9 Floor, Flat 1
clarity on your goals and learn to use both your conscious COST: $380 member/$440 member’s guest
and subconscious minds to achieve the results you want. CAPACITY: 4 min/8 max (excluding coordinator)
The course ends with a simple and powerful meditation COORDINATOR(S): Lavinia Hemandas 2838 2199/9090 0931
technique that you can take home and practice. This talk is Travel through Southeast Asia from Lavinia’s spacious
presented by Sonia Samtani, one of Hong Kong’s most kitchen. From chiles and coconuts to lemongrass and
highly regarded personal development practitioners, a tamarind to cardamom and fenugreek, these spices, which
trained image consultant, clinical hypnotherapist and owner create the wonderful cuisine of Asia, will take you on a true
of the All About You wellness center. voyage of discovery! Today’s menu: channa masala with
kachoombo (Indian spicy aromatic chickpeas with pickled
onion rings); Malay boneless chicken curry; and Sichuan
prawns in chili garlic sauce. Lunch will be served to the
domestic helpers.
26 AWARE December 2019 / January 2020LOCAL TOURS AND ACTIVITIES
Looking Forward *The $60 registration fee is purely an administration fee. It is
not donated to the Charitable and Education fund.
February
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Series: Matching Your Diet to Your Body’s
Needs
WHEN: Tuesday, 11 February, 11:00 AM – 1:00 CARPET WASHING & REPAIRS
PM
WHERE: AWA Office PROFESSIONALS
COST: $540 member/$600 member’s guest CLEANING & REPAIR SERVICES
CAPACITY: 11 min/30 max Our cleaning and repair services are the best
in Hong Kong. Free pickup and delivery.
COORDINATOR(S): Natalia Morrison 6415 9880
In Chinese culture, it is firmly believed that all foods have
therapeutic effects if they are eaten in the right way. At the
same time, however, if you are unaware of how foods affect
you and make the mistake of eating foods that either conflict
with your body’s constitution or with a condition you are
experiencing at the time, you may end up feeling…less than
perfect. Intrigued? Join Chinese medicine practitioner Claire
Hiu Ling Cheng to learn more about how this works and
whether you might benefit from adjusting your food intake a
bit, to better suit what your body needs!
SHOP IN YOUR HOME
You can buy a carpet in the comfort of your home.
Registration Procedures
(We can bring the carpets to you with no obligation.)
Local Tour and Activity (LTA) events are open for registration
as of the first of each month in which the activity will be held. CALL : 9018 0897 / 2851 3665
Activities being held in the early part of the following month EMAIL : Iqbalhk@me.com
are open for registration on the first day of the prior month. WEBSITE : Iqbalcarpets.hk
Check the AWA website at www.awa.org.hk for the most
ADDRESS : G/F. 21 PO TUNG RD. SAIKUNG
up-to-date schedule and don’t forget to register early as
many of the events will sell out.
Refund, Cancellation and Substitution Policies
Every activity includes an administrative fee of HK$60
Member/ HK$120 Member’s Guest. This base fee is not
refundable at any time unless the AWA cancels the event.
Charges in excess of the base fee are refundable if
cancellation is received by the AWA office at least one full
week before the activity date. For example, if the activity is
on a Tuesday, cancellation must be received prior to
midnight of the previous Tuesday. If the AWA cancels an
event, the entire activity cost will be automatically credited to
you. Credit notes are not transferable and must be used
within six months from the date of issue or by the end of the
AWA fiscal year (30 June), whichever is earlier. You may
request a check in lieu of a credit at any time before the
credit expires. Owing to the popularity of AWA activities,
many have a wait list and therefore substitutions cannot be
accepted. If you are unable to attend an activity, please,
inform the AWA office to cancel your place and allow
someone on the waitlist to attend.
December 2019 / January 2020 AWARE 27You can also read
