Operation Santa Claus: Sketch a shoe for Choo and benefit our charity drive

Hong Kong's "awesome" and "positive" energy over the festive period is what makes the city unique, says a shoemaking stalwart who is giving back to the community this Christmas through a new charity fundraising initiative.

"I love Hong Kong and Christmas is always one of my favourite festivals. The lights ... are amazing, the festive atmosphere is fantastic," said world-famous fashion designer Jimmy Choo, who is teaming up with Operation Santa Claus to raise funds for the needy.

Operation Santa Claus is the annual fundraiser jointly organised by the South China Morning Post and RTHK, reaching out to 22 charities in Hong Kong and on the mainland.

"It's the season of giving and you can readily see a lot of fundraising activities around town," said Choo, whose famous shoes have graced the feet of fictional fashionista Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City, alongside real life stars Natalie Portman and Hilary Swank.

"I am very pleased to support this charity initiative this year and I hope it is just the beginning in helping vulnerable people."

Choo will be contributing a shoe outline and a handmade miniature shoe to a fundraising event held by the Shangri-La Hotel Kowloon. Guests at the hotel will be invited to take part in a lady's shoe design contest judged by Choo.