March has swept in like a fresh breeze, a season rich with the resonance of women’s voices and the heartbeat of purpose. With International Women’s Day on March 8, I am filled with gratitude for the trailblazers who have dared to dream, the innovators shaping tomorrow, and the quiet power of our collective spirit. This month, I find myself reflecting on the moments that are lighting my way: a luncheon sparking bold ideas, a documentary tracing a pioneer’s legacy, the promise of youthful vision, and a letter that reminds me to live with intention.

Moments of Inspiration: IWF Luncheon and Screening of M on the Bund 
To kick off the month of March, the International Women’s Forum Hong Kong (of which I am a board member and treasurer) celebrated International Women’s Day Luncheon at Club Lusitano—an event that left me both humbled and invigorated. The luncheon featured a fireside chat with Isabella Alveberg, CEO of Snøhetta, moderated by Betty Ng, Founder of COLLECTIVE. Leading a global team of 350 professionals across nine cities and 40+ nationalities, she embodies leadership that not only drives innovation but also champions equality and diversity. Her journey from IT and cybersecurity to architecture, bolstered by initiatives like Women@Avast and SHE Leads, radiates adaptability and vision.

Isabella spoke candidly about shattering glass ceilings, crediting mentorship and self-belief as her anchors. She recounted a mentor’s wisdom that resonated with me: “Don’t be defined by barriers others set for you. Define your own barriers to break through.” It was this tenet that inspired the creation of Women@Avast, a mentorship program that brought together ten exceptional women to support each other’s growth. She emphasized that while women must lift each other up, meaningful progress also requires men’s active support. Her insights highlighted diverse perspectives’ importance in leadership and creating spaces where everyone feels empowered to contribute meaningfully.

Betty’s thoughtful moderation drew out Isabella’s insights on architecture’s delicate balance between creativity and strategy. Her candid critique of outdated business models and undervalued creativity sparked my own reflection on the true value of design. But it was Isabella’s closing call to action that lingered most: she urged us never to shut the world around us and always pull others forward. Her words reinforced the responsibility we all share—to create a more inclusive and equitable future. Her emphasis on vulnerability and sincerity as strengths, rather than weaknesses, was a powerful reminder of the courage required to lead authentically.

As I left the luncheon, I felt a renewed commitment to fostering inclusivity and collaboration in my own journey. Isabella’s story and her unwavering dedication to empowering others served as both inspiration and a challenge to continue pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of progress.

On March 19, The JESSICA Company will collaborate with Asia Society Hong Kong and IWF Hong Kong, in the screening of M on the Bund, an award-winning documentary, followed by a post-screening talk with Michelle Garnaut. Michelle’s journey—from a Melbourne dreamer to a culinary trailblazer who transformed Shanghai’s dining scene into a cultural haven—is a testament to the doors that can open when we dare to defy the odds.

As someone who values storytelling, I am grateful for the opportunity to witness the final chapter of M on the Bund, exploring the memories, legacy, and impact of a restaurant that became a community. I look forward to her reflections on resilience and on building something enduring in a male-dominated field. Her story sparks my own resolve to create, connect, and leave a mark that resonates. To JES Network members eager to catch Michelle’s story live, tickets are selling out fast—grab yours today!

Young Trailblazers 2025
On March 14, we will unveil the Young Trailblazers Awards 2025—a heartfelt step in our mission to celebrate rising young women who dare to innovate. This award celebrates their fearless vision, reshaping industries with ideas that ignite possibility, inspiring others to dream bigger and reimagine the future. Through the JES Network’s commitment to mentorship and impact, we are nurturing a future where youth and courage flourish—a future I am proud to champion as we build bridges for the next generation.

Passing of Khalil Fong
Recently, I read a letter Khalil Fong wrote before his passing, and its quiet power brought me to tears. His reflections about time’s fleeting nature and the need for purpose made me reflect on how precious every moment truly is. There are many people in this world who carry immense heart and talent, yet vanish suddenly, leaving us in the wake of their legacy.

Khalil’s letter reminded me that every day is a blessing, and we must have a reason for everything we do—a real purpose. I believe he found his purpose. Through his music, kindness, and sincerity, he touched countless lives—his fans, friends, loved ones, and everyone fortunate enough to meet him. The recurring sentiment from those who knew him was always the same: he was an extraordinarily genuine person.

At JESSICA, everything we strive to do connects back to helping others find their life’s purpose, a mission Khalil embodied. Recently, I came across the first photo we took together in 2016, recalling the thrill of meeting someone whose talent matched his profound heart. His sincerity lingers, a poignant reminder of the impact one life can have. He is the kind of person the world needs more of—someone whose light continues to shine long after they’re gone.

Jessica