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Timely charity

Vivian Chen

Father and daughter Peter and Elly Lam team up to support the noble cause #stylescmp

EVENT First Initiative Foundation “Hong Kong! Hong Kong!” Charity Event
WHERE Hotel ICON, Hung Hom

HAPPENINGS: While most gala dinners, especially one involving a customised menu, take hours, First Initiative Foundation's (FIF) charity dinner - despite a menu designed by five of the city's top chefs - wrapped up sharply before eight o'clock. Guests were then ushered to Canto-pop king Eason Chan's sold-out concert at the nearby Hong Kong Coliseum. Proceeds from that night's concert went to the FIF.

The foundation, chaired by socialite and jeweller Michelle Ong, aims to promote arts and culture programmes to the Hong Kong community at home and overseas. The event saw a stellar turnout of the city's most talked-about celebrities, including Timothy Fok, Peter Lam, Pansy and Maisy Ho. Pianist Lang Lang also joined the good-doers and even took to the stage to jam with Chan.

A unique folding chair created by local designers Freeman Lau and Kent Wong was among an impressive line-up of objects on offer at the charity's auction.

It’s a real challenge to dress up for a black-tie gala followed by a pop concert!

CHIC CHAT with Michelle Ong

What inspired you to start FIF?
I have been working on charity and community projects for more than 25 years. Actively supporting so many worthwhile causes inspired me to start a foundation that could focus on uplifting Hong Kong.

Why is nurturing young, local artistic talent a cause close to your heart?
I truly believe that our youth is our future. Young people need and deserve nurturing.

What’s your long-term goal for FIF?
We will continue our efforts to make a meaningful difference to the lives of those who benefit from our initiatives. With the help of our members and supporters, we will expand FIF’s outreach over the coming years.

Do you want your children to continue your philanthropy work?
I think we must involve the next generation in philanthropy efforts and lead by example. After all, they will be taking on the responsibility of supporting charitable causes.