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Show your love this Valentine's Day with a special gift from The Lion Rock Press!
This Hong Kong-based shop offers an array of quirky and humorous cards (HK$30), with Hong Kong inspired quips and artwork that are sure to melt anyoneâs heart.
Aside from expressing your feelings in words, their scented candles are also great for adding a little romance to the ambiance. Hand-poured locally and crafted by artisans, these gorgeous candles are zodiac-themed, featuring the Delightful Dog (HK$288), Gorgeous Goat (HK$288), Ravishing Rabbit (HK$288).
Or if your special someone is partial to flowers, there is also an accompanying package of bouquets of six or 10 roses to go with their cards.
Click here to browse the full Lion Rock Press valentineâs day collection.
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Thereâs news going around thatâs causing quite a stir: the beloved CUPNOODLES MUSEUM Hong Kong is closing its doors for renovation â but not until Jan. 11, 2026.
If you havenât been or youâve been meaning to go back, thereâs still time to catch its one-of-a-kind interactive noodle-making workshops, quirky exhibitions, and nostalgic Cup Noodles-themed installations before the fans go down and the renovation begins.
Things to Enjoy at CUPNOODLES Museum Hong Kong
The holiday season brings in cooler winds and chillier nights, and what better way to warm up than with a steaming cup of instant noodles?
Opened in 2021 by Nissin Food Products, the CUPNOODLES Museum Hong Kong offers a unique experience that not only lets you make a cup of noodles, but also lets you create it to your own preferences. In âMy CUPNOODLES Factory,â guests can design their own cup, choose one of the four soup bases, and select four toppings from 12 options to create a unique, world-exclusive combination. Rumor has it that there are up to 5,460 possible flavor combos!
The workshop session lasts about 30 minutes and has a participation fee of HK$60 per person.
Photo from Website/CUPNOODLES Museum Hong KongPhoto from Website/CUPNOODLES Museum Hong Kong
Another fascinating workshop you shouldnât miss is the âDemae Iccho Factory,â where you can learn how to knead, spread, steam, and season the wheat flour before drying it with the flash frying method. Each session takes about 90 minutes and costs HK$120 per person.
But thatâs not all! Thereâs more to noodles here with the introduction of a brand new workshop, âThe Granola Factory,â where guests can learn about the story and manufacturing process of Nissinâs new granola product. Sessions last 30 minutes and are priced at HK$60 per person.
Other activities you can enjoy in the museum include various Exhibition areas such as The Innovation Journey of Momofuku Ando, the Cup Noodle Wall display featuring various packaging from around the world, Ching Chai's Creative Team, and The Big Cup. If youâre looking for a fun game to play together with family or friends, they also have an original series of detective games that invite you to solve mysteries around the museum. You can buy a game pack for only HK$50.
Photo from Website/CUPNOODLES Museum Hong Kong
Featured workshops have fixed time schedules, so make sure to book your slots in advance here.
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Nothing says Christmas like the fragrance of a freshly delivered Christmas tree. From premium imported firs to charming, space-saving options ideal for Hong Kong apartments, these are the cityâs top spots for sourcing the perfect tree this festive season. But first and foremost, you need to choose what kind of tree you want.
In Hong Kong, most of your choices will be limited to: Noble Fir, Douglas Fir or Nordmann Fir.
Noble Fir: This tree is slightly lighter in color, with short, blue-green needles. The Noble fir has some of the best needle retention among Christmas tree species, with stiff branches and an attractive form to handle heavy ornaments.
Douglas Fir: This is a classic Christmas tree vibe. Dense with soft, light green needles and a pleasant scent, the Douglas fir is one of the most popular Christmas tree species. Because the branches are not as stiff as some other species, the Douglas fir is best decorated with lightweight ornaments.Â
Nordmann Fir: Darker than almost any other fir, the Nordmann fir features glossy, dark green needles and excellent needle retention. The structure presents in a layered or tiered fashion, with sturdy branches for displaying ornaments. This tree has very little or almost no fragrance, making it a great option for those who may be sensitive to scent.
In North America, families might take an afternoon to go and check out Christmas trees at farms and nurseries about town, enjoying the crisp and cold wintery weather. In Hong Kong, we are a bit more efficient than that. Skip the hike and order a tree online!
1. Christmas Tree Hong Kong
Website/ Christmas Tree Hong Kong
Christmas Tree Hong Kong is a go-to for anyone who wants the full, fuss-free festive experience. The company delivers fresh, fragrant trees straight to your door â free of charge â anywhere in the city. They also offer an eco-friendlyrecyclingservice once the season winds down. Prices start from HK$1,088, with a range of sizes to suit compact flats and spacious homes alike. Just remember to add a stand to your order, as their trees donât come with one.
Browse Christmas Tree Hong Kong's seasonal offerings this year here.
2. Anglo Chinese Florist
Website/ Anglo Chinese Florist
Bring your Christmas vision to life with Anglo Chinese Florist, a trusted Hong Kong mainstay since 1946. Choose from a range of real or artificial trees, including their popular Noble Fir â a fragrant, sturdy classic that will look stunning decorated with heavier ornaments. And if you donât have space for a tree, how about indulging in a fir-based table decoration to brighten up the Christmas lunch? They also offer bespoke floral arrangements, poinsettias, garlands, ornaments, LED lights and more. Whatâs more, theyâll even take care of tree removal â making your post-holiday clean-up completely effortless.
Explore Anglo Chinese Florist's festive firs here.
3. IKEA Hong Kong
Website/ IKEA
IKEA is a popular choice for affordable, sustainably grown Nordmann firs, fresh from Denmark and known for their dense, solid needles and classic Christmas-tree shape. This year, theyâre taking orders until Dec. 16, with both real and artificial trees available.
Choose between two sizes: 150cm (HK$1,299) or 200cm (HK$1,599). Each tree is naturally unique, so expect slight variations in shape and fullness from the in-store display models. This is a perfect option for anyone who wants a fuss-free, budget-friendly festive centerpiece.
If you want to add a touch of luxury to your home this year, Pacific Petals is a go-to. A longstanding favorite of The Ritz-Carlton, their festive lineup includes Holland Noble mini trees (30â60âŻcm) and the show-stopping Premium Noble Firs, which stand up to 10âŻft tall, and are now 22% off, complete with a cleaning service. Add matching wreaths, ornaments, and enjoy their eco-friendly recycling service to keep the season green.
Discover their festive trees here or drop by The Ritz-Carlton's lobby to browse in person!
Location: 9/F Lobby, The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong, ICC, 1 Austin Road West, Hong Kong
5. XmasTree Online
Website/ XmasTree Online
Founded by two pilots in 2014, XmasTree Online has taken Christmas tree shopping to new heights (literally). Their selection includes Noble Firs (from HK$1,888), Douglas Firs (from HK$1,588), and Nordmann Firs (from HK$1,888), all ready to transform your home into a festive wonderland.
XmasTree Online makes holiday decorating effortless with professional setup and stair-carrying services available, plus optional eco-friendly tree collection and recycling for stress-free wrap-up. Their festive offerings also include carefully selected stands, customizable fairy lights, and charming ornaments to deck every corner of your home and give it that cozy, festive ambiance.
Although XmasTree Online is already sold out for the 2025 holiday season, bookmark their page for next year and make sure to place your order early!
6. decor8ion
Website/ decor8ion
If you want to preserve the forests â or you just fancy a fake tree, check out decor8ion.
Location: Vanta Industrial Centre, 21-33 Tai Lin Pai Road, Kwai Chung
7. Oncor Recycled Trees
Website/ Oncor Recycled Trees
For a greener holiday, why not check out Oncor Recycled Trees. Oncor specializes in trees made entirely from recycled PVC plastic â durable enough to be reused for 30 years or more. Their collection spans a surprising range, from luxury to basic models, all big, bushy, and built to last. Oncor is great for those who want the classic festive feel without the harmful environmental impact.
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One MICHELIN-starredANDĆ by Chef-Owner Agustin Balbi is marking the festive season with a one-day-only charity Sunday brunch on Dec. 14, 2025, created in partnership with Hong Kong food charity MORE GOOD.
Continuing in its role as official restaurant ambassador for MORE GOOD, ANDĆ will host âA Toy for a Table â The Christmas Sharing Brunch,â a family-style event that swaps a traditional set menu price for generosity. Instead of paying for the meal, guests are invited to bring new, unwrapped toys, which will be distributed to children and families supported by MORE GOOD and its partner organisations over the holidays.
âAs the official ambassador of MORE GOOD, this Christmas season, we want to bring joy and do something a little different for the children who need our help,â Balbi said. âThere is no better thing to receive than toys during the Christmas season, and this is how we developed the concept of our guests donating toys to the children instead of paying money for the brunch â something to give back to our community.â
Courtesy of Jia GroupCourtesy of Jia Group
The special brunch is designed as a comforting, convivial spread. The three-course menu opens with a bright Fish Carpaccio with Passion Fruit and Salsa Fresca, bringing acidity and freshness to start the meal. Warm empanadas follow, served with chimichurri for a hit of herbal, Argentine-style comfort.
At the centre of the table is a Roasted Beef served with potatoes, onions, and gremolata, combining rich flavors, rustic textures, and citrus-herb notes meant for sharing. To close, guests will be served a playful dessert combination of coffee, vanilla, and chocolate, followed by freshly baked madeleines for a warm finish.
With capacity limited to just 24 guests, the brunch underscores ANDĆâs ongoing commitment to community initiatives and to using its dining room as a platform for meaningful causes alongside MORE GOOD.
Message them via WhatsApp +852 9161 8697 for reservations.
A Toy for a Table â The Christmas Sharing Brunch
Location: 1/F, Somptueux Central, 52 Wellington Street, Central
Date and Time: Dec. 14, 2025, from 12 PM onwards
Price: No fixed price. Guests are invited to donate new, unwrapped toys in lieu of payment.
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Hong Kongâs third medical school is officially in the works, and itâs poised to shake up the cityâs education and healthcare landscape.
On Nov. 18, the Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau announced that the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) won the bid to run the new school, edging out proposals from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU). The first batch of future doctors is expected to start classes in 2028.
At the press conference, Secretary Lo praised HKUST for its âsharp strategic positioningâ and âwide global outlook,â noting that the university stands out in terms of long-term competitiveness, from attracting top-tier faculty to nurturing world-class research.
HKUSTâs strong financial commitment also helped seal the deal. The university has pledged HK$200 million to develop a new facility near its Clear Water Bay campus, which will serve as the interim site. The permanent campus is set to rise in Ngau Tam Mei in the Northern Metropolis, with doors expected to officially open in 2034.
âThe University expresses its deepest gratitude to the HKSAR Government for its trust and to the dedicated Task Group on New Medical School for its thorough and rigorous assessment throughout the selection process. This approval represents a significant advance in addressing Hong Kong's future healthcare needs through an innovative, interdisciplinary approach to medical education,â said HKUST in a statement.
Website/ Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
The two other schools have also issued statements. PolyU expressed that they are disappointed but fully respect the decision and will continue to support the government in ânurturing healthcare professionals, promoting medical technology development, benefiting society, and contributing to the Nation.â
Meanwhile, Dr. Kennedy Y H Wong, Chairman of the Council and the Court of HKBU, also said: âHKBU will continue to stay committed. We will strive to develop Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub. We will continue to contribute to Hong Kongâs healthcare system and the well-being of our citizens through different means.â
With big investments, an international vision, and a fresh generation of medical talent on the horizon, this new school is shaping up to be a major milestone for Hong Kongâs future.
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This yearâs theme, âHong Kong Tradition,â celebrates both the cityâs rich cultural heritage and the Carnivalâs place as a homegrown staple. Visitors and guests can enjoy vibrant local performances and authentic street food to immersive photo opportunities woven into the festival experience.
AIA Hong Kong & Macau CEO Alger Fung called the event âa cherished winter tradition,â highlighting the role in bringing families and communities together. He also added that over 50,000 tickets will be donated to charities, allowing more people to experience the Carnival and create lasting memories.
Entertainment, Food, and Returning Favourites
Courtesy of AIA Hong Kong
Alongside its thrilling rides and attractions, the Carnival will feature an expanded program of performances and hands-on experiences.
Long-term partner Jebsen Group will deepen its partnership this year, reviving the popular Blue Girl Dai Pai Dong, complete with draught beer, comfort food, live music from emerging artists, and classic games.
The internationally acclaimed Gandeys Circus also returns, presenting an all-new, curated winter-themed show âThe Winter World Circus,â filled with seasonal acts and showstopping performances.
Special Offers and Opening-Day Surprises
Courtesy of AIA Hong KongCourtesy of AIA Hong Kong
Early bird sales have already started, with regular admission tickets at HKD$140 and 5,000 discounted tickets available at 10% off. Iconic Carnival entertainers will be seen across the city to kickstart the countdown, handing out free tickets and tokens.
Lucky fans will also be invited to a mini concert during the AIA Carnivalâs Opening Ceremony on December 22, 2025, featuring local band The Flame. Details will be announced soon through AIA Carnivalâs official channels.
This year also introduces a new digital token system and flexible ride pricing, with lower rates during selected off-peak periods. Etihad Airways also joins the fun as the Official Airline Partner, offering an exclusive giveaway where one winner will be awarded 1 million Etihad Guest Milesâenough for a business-class roundtrip for five to Abu Dhabiârunning from November 12 until December 31, 2025.
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Weddings in Hong Kong are known for being extravagant, often carrying a hefty price tag. However, itâs entirely possible to find stunning yet affordable wedding venues in Hong Kong that wonât break the bank. From intimate settings to grand celebrations, there are beautiful spaces that combine both style and affordability. Whether you dream of saying "I do" at a chic restaurant, cozy villa, or a rooftop with sweeping skyline views, Hong Kong offers a variety of options that fit all tastes and budgets.
And the good news is that you donât have to settle for less when it comes to your venue! With the right tools, you can discover hidden gems that offer the perfect balance of aesthetics and cost.
Hereâs the exciting part: your venue discovery tool is coming soon in January 2026! Spaces by The Beat Asia will soon be launching to help you filter through Hong Kong's beautiful but lower-cost wedding venue options, making it easier than ever to find the perfect spot for your special day.
Photo by Hotel ICON
How to Find an Affordable Wedding Venue in Hong Kong
Finding the perfect wedding venue in Hong Kong doesnât have to be an expensive challenge. One of the easiest ways to save is by opting for a weekday wedding rather than a weekend celebration. Many venues offer more competitive rates for weekday events, helping you stick to your budget without compromising on your dream aesthetic. For those planning a small wedding in HK, consider the benefits of an intimate setting, as smaller guest lists often come with significant discounts and can create a more personal and memorable experience with your closest loved ones.
Make sure to take advantage of off-peak discounts and packages, as these can make a big difference in the overall cost. With careful planning and the right research, youâll find an affordable or even cheap wedding venue thatâs both beautiful and within your budget.
Looking for good examples? Check out our list below and find the right venue for you and your special someone for below HK$50,000!
Royal View Hotel
Instagram/ Royal View HotelWebsite/ Royal View Hotel
Located along the scenic waterfront between Tsing Ma Bridge and Ting Kau Beach, Royal View Hotel in Tsuen Wan offers couples a romantic yet affordable setting for their big day. With its lush surroundings, ocean views, and elegant function spaces, the hotel provides the ideal backdrop for an intimate ceremony immersed in nature.
Couples can choose between two options from the hotel's Poolside Marriage Solemnization Package, available from Nov. 1, 2025, to Dec. 31, 2026 (blackout dates apply). Package A, a three-hour cocktail solemnization for 40 guests, is priced at HK$12,888 net, with extra guests at HK$328 net each. Package B, on the other hand, is available at HK$8,800 net for a two-hour poolside rental option for up to 40 guests.
Each package includes a ceremony setup, backdrop cloth, guest signature book, basic PA system, five-tier dummy cake, use of a Chinese tea ceremony set, and two complimentary parking spaces. Package A also offers a one-night stay in an Ocean View Room, a welcome fruit punch, a three-pound fresh fruit cream cake, a sparkling wine toast, unlimited drinks for two hours, and 60 dozen cocktail snacks.
For inquiries and bookings, contact (852) 2622 6285 or (852) 6111 8882 for WhatsApp or email banquet@royalview.com.hk.
Location: Royal View Hotel, 353 Castle Peak Road, Ting Kau, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong
Hotel ICON
Instagram/ Hotel ICON
Nestled in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hotel ICON offers couples an elegant blend of contemporary design, luxury, and panoramic harbor views for your perfect special day. This stylish five-star hotel sets the stage for unforgettable weddings, whether youâre planning a grand banquet or an intimate celebration.
The hotel's âLove Is All Aroundâ Smart Package (until Dec. 31, 2025) starts at HK$13,888 net per table of 10-12 guests, including a lavish feast and special privileges like a complimentary candy corner and honeymoon stay. For smaller ceremonies, the Intimate Wedding Package (until Dec. 31, 2026) is priced at HK$33,888 net for 50 persons, with venue use, champagne, and a Club Suite 65 stay.
For bookings and inquiries, contact (852) 3400 1613 or email events@hotel-icon.com.
Location: Hotel ICON, 17 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Regal Riverside Hotel
Website/ Regal Riverside Hotel
Regal Riverside Hotel in Sha Tin offers a charming riverside setting for couples seeking an elegant yet affordable wedding venue in Hong Kong. Just a 15-minute walk from Sha Tin MTR Station and a short ride to New Town Plaza, the hotel features versatile event spaces and exceptional amenities that make it a convenient and stylish choice for wedding celebrations.
Couples can choose from a variety of wedding packages tailored to different needs and budgets. The Riverside Garden Celebrants Package I, priced at HK$10,880 (weekdays) and HK$13,880 (weekends) for 50 guests, includes two hoursâ use of a beautifully decorated ceremony venue complete with a reception table, photo easel, and a five-tier dummy cake for the cake-cutting ceremony and photo session. The Riverside Garden Celebrants Package II offers the same inclusions plus one nightâs accommodation and celebrant service, starting at HK$23,880.
Located in the heart of Sha Tin, Royal Park Hotel combines convenience, elegance, and romance for couples seeking a memorable wedding celebration. Just a few steps away from Sha Tin MTR, the hotel is easily accessible
The hotel offers a variety of banquet venues designed to suit different wedding styles, from grand receptions to intimate gatherings. Its signature outdoor venue, the Rose Garden, provides a charming open-air setting surrounded by lush greenery, which is perfect for exchanging vows under the sky. The hotel's Outdoor Wedding Package (until Dec. 31, 2025) starts at HK$9,888 on weekdays and HK$12,888 on weekends and public holidays (originally priced at HK$15,888), inclusive of a 10% service charge and 3% accommodation tax.
Each two-hour event includes basic venue decoration, audio equipment, a three-tier dummy wedding cake for photos and cake-cutting, and a one-night stay in a Suite Room. Couples may also upgrade with deluxe decorations or banquet packages at an additional cost.
For inquiries or bookings, contact (852) 2694 3839 or email henrychan@royalpark.com.hk.
Location: Royal Park Hotel, 8 Pak Hok Ting Street, Shatin, Hong Kong
The Arca Hotel, Wong Chuk Hang
Instagram/ the Arca
Tucked away in the vibrant Southern District, the Arca Hotel in Wong Chuk Hang offers a sleek and contemporary retreat overlooking the scenic Aberdeen Harbour. With its modern architecture and boutique charm, this stylish hotel is perfect for couples seeking a chic yet relaxed atmosphere for their wedding.
For inquiries and bookings, contact events@thearca.com or call +852 3898 8771.
Location: the Arca Hotel, 43 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang
Website/ the Arca Hotel, Wong Chuk Hang
Whether you're envisioning a romantic waterfront event, glamorous rooftop affair, or intimate garden ceremony, Hong Kong is brimming with affordable wedding venues just waiting to make your dream day a reality. With the right approach and tools, you can have the wedding you've always imagined, without the stress of overspending.
Keep an eye out for Spaces by The Beat Asia, your go-to venue discovery tool launching soon in January 2026. Weâre here to make your wedding planning not only easy but also stress-free and stylish.
Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.
TEDxTinHauWomen 2025 returns to Hong Kong this November at WestKâs Xiqu Centre with a powerful theme: Reframe â a call to amplify voices that challenge norms and inspire change. This yearâs lineup brings together innovators, advocates, and creators reshaping how we think about leadership, sustainability, and community.
One of those voices is Shulin Ho, a high school student and mental health advocate who launched her podcast Clinical Awesomeness at just 11 years old.
Her TEDx talk will explore why listening isnât passive â itâs a lifeline, especially for young people navigating a fast-paced, high-pressure world.
The Beat Asia had the opportunity to talk to Shulin to learn about her journey making her podcast, vision for creating safe spaces, and her hopes for a future where every voice matters.
Courtesy of Shulin Ho
Shulinâs story begins with a moment she never expected to define her path â a panic attack during an English lesson at age 11.
Searching for answers online led her to a forum about podcasts, and what started as curiosity became a lifeline.
That podcast, Clinical Awesomeness, became her platform to break stigma and start conversations that matter. Over the years, sheâs hosted doctors, coaches, and advocates, tackling topics from anxiety to abuse. For Shulin, it was about creating space for voices that often go unheard.
Mental health advocacy starts with something simple yet profound for Shulin: listening. âConversations stem from vulnerability,â she says.
Safe spaces arenât built on quick fixes â they begin with trust. âWhen I show that I am willing to let my guard down, there will be a reciprocal reaction showing that I have trust in them, and that they could trust me.â
Her TEDx talk dives into why listening matters more than offering solutions. âSometimes, teens donât want solutions but just want a listening ear.â
Shulin believes young people today are more open to mental health conversations than older generations, but stigma still lingers.
Misconceptions also persist â especially around language. There are people âsaying things such as âthe weather is so bipolarâ or âI am so OCDâ,â she says, knowing clearly OCD is a condition and not a trait.â For Shulin, awareness begins with empathy and accurate words. âThere is a huge difference in saying âI feel depressedâ and âI have depression.ââ
So, what started as a podcast has grown into a platform for change. One episode Shulin calls particularly powerful focused on sexual assault and abuse. âThrough my research I learnt so much about the severity and prevalence of abuse as well as what could be done to prevent it,â she says.
Looking ahead, she hopes to turn Clinical Awesomeness into a nonprofit supporting youth mental health and victims of trauma.
Her ambitions donât stop there. Shulin plans to study education and work in schools, inspired by teachers who supported her during secondary school.
Her advice to other students who want to speak up is to âjust go for it.â Whether itâs starting a podcast, hosting a youth forum, or organizing a small charity event, Shulin believes action starts with courage â and community.
âSurround yourself with people that will push you to be better,â she says.
Her story is inspiring, but what stands out most is her honesty about the challenges, and the solutions, she believes can make a difference. In our conversation, Shulin shared more thoughts on youth advocacy, misconceptions about mental health, and why vulnerability matters more than quick fixes. Hereâs what she told us.
Your upcoming talk at TEDxTinHau Women 2025 with Emily Kusunoki explores the feeling of being unheard. Why do you think that experience is so universal â especially for young people?
I think the idea of being unheard is so universal because of the increasing pace of life.
Many young people might feel overwhelmed as a result of stress, whether it be academic, financial, or social. As society is developing so quickly, it leaves many teens feeling like they are bombarded by information and negativity on a daily basis (through social media, or day to day interactions).
I believe that the idea of feeling unheard isnât new, and that people have been feeling that way. But it is quite recent where people have started talking about it, instead of leaving it within them.
Do you think young people are more open to discussing mental health than older generations?
I think younger people are much more receptive to discussing mental health and sensitive topics.
That does not mean that older generations donât, but that they do so in a different way. I would say â from my personal experience â that this generation of teens and children have been able to leap past a hurdle that prevented older generations from speaking about their mental health. When we pass that hurdle, it becomes easier for change and to discuss those tough conversations.
What do you wish schools did differently when it comes to supporting studentsâ emotional well-being?
This is a question that I have been focusing on for many years.
I believe the way schools can support studentsâ emotional wellbeing is through active communication and clear channels within the school.
This might mean that students know who to go to when they need help, children donât feel ashamed to seek support, and that the school has an underpinning foundation that is firm. This means that the school has policies and procedures that staff are well informed/aware of, but also flexibility and the ability to treat students with compassion and kindness. This might be difficult, especially for local schools where there tends to be a stigma surrounding mental health.
One implementation that I really like is to make sure each school has ways to anonymize students that want to help their peers. Many students might not want to let their friends know that they have involved a teacher. This is as students that have poor mental health are almost sometimes âblindedâ by the severity of the situation. Although some students might take advantage and misuse a form that people can submit when they are concerned, it will definitely be beneficial for most of the school community.
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If you could design a mental health curriculum for schools, what would be the first lesson â and why?
My first lesson would be how we can equip students with the tools to help themselves and each other.
How to support another student that might be feeling anxious. Many of us have heard about what we should do, but we struggle to do it in a real-life scenario. Like how many of us are told to listen and not judge, but many students do not know how judgement can present itself in those situations, and can unintentionally pass judgement onto someone else.
How can parents and families create safer spaces for mental health conversations at home?
A great tip I use â when I find it difficult, or when I see someone that is hesitating to share something, I will place myself in a position of vulnerability that will aid them. This is because when I show that I am willing to let my guard down, there will be a reciprocal reaction showing that I have trust in them, and that they could trust me. But itâs important to not overshare and divert the conversation to yourself (and away from the person youâre talking to!)
There is a lot of cultural stigma, especially in Hong Kong, where those safer spaces cannot be formed. I think one thing that parents can do would be to try to âLISTENâ and not try to âFIX.â This means not immediately offering solutions or asking âwhy didnât you do ____ instead.â
Sometimes, teens donât want solutions but just want a listening ear.
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Do you feel young people are given enough space to lead conversations that affect them directly?
I feel like young people are slowly increasing their say in important events and conversations. This is important as older generations might not have the younger generationsâ interests in mind or consider other perspectives.
But even though there is an increase, I feel like there should be even more. It shouldnât be as difficult as it is now to lead conversations, where it can sometimes feel like social media is the only way for teenagers to âleadâ a conversation.
Whatâs next for Clinical Awesomeness?
Iâve had many ideas as to where I want it to grow into. I would like to see it grow into a non-profit, helping both people struggling with mental health as well as victims of child abuse or trauma.
I would also like to grow on social media and increase the support that could be provided for teens and students. I would definitely like to keep podcasting and sharing my ideas with the world!
I hope to one day be able to also implement better structure and policies surrounding youth mental health (suicide prevention) as well as the system regarding child abuse in Hong Kong.
I want to see better prevention as well as better support for victims, without making them feel embarrassed. I hope that not only will I see that change in my lifetime, but that I wouldâve played a part in sparking that change.
Want to hear more? Get your ticket for TEDxTinHauWomen 2025 this November at Xiqu Centre via CityLine and catch Shulin Ho live. Her talk will challenge how you see the power of teens, and inspire you to contribute to building a better world through, simply, listening.
Check out Shulin Ho's LinkedIn and her podcast's Instagram for more information, and listen to Clinical Awesomeness on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube. Visit TEDxTinHauWomen's website for more information about the event this year.
TEDxTinHau Women 2025 Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre Wed, November 12 1:00 PM
- 7:00 PM
TEDxTinHau Women 2025 returns on November 12 at Xiqu Centre, showcasing eight dynamic speakers under the theme "Reframe", exploring fresh perspectives on resilience, identity, design, and innovation.
Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out!âŻClick here to subscribe.
At this yearâs TEDxTinHau Women 2025, themed âReframe,â audiences will be invited to see the worldâand themselvesâthrough fresh lenses.
Now in its ninth year, Hong Kongâs longest-standing TEDx event dedicated to women continues to spotlight trailblazers who challenge convention and ignite dialogue on how we can adapt, thrive, and redefine our perspectives. Among the eight speakers taking the stage on Nov. 12, 2025, is Katie Oropallo, an accomplished hair and makeup artist whose craft goes far beyond aesthetics.
With over 15 years of experience transforming characters for stage and screen, from Londonâs West End productions to Netflix sets, Katie has mastered the art of storytelling through wigs and makeup. Her expertise in period wig styling reveals not only an admiration for history but also a deep understanding of how appearance shapes identity. As a lecturer at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA), Katie channels her passion into empowering the next generation of artists, while also using her skills to support those navigating hair loss and self-image challenges.
Speaking with The Beat Asia, Katie opened up about how her years in theatre have shaped her love for wigs and makeup, revealing how these art forms transcend beauty to become expressions of identity and empowerment. She also shared what she hopes attendees of TEDxTinHau Women 2025 will take away from her talk.
Hi Katie! What initially drew you to the world of wigs and makeup artistry?
I actually wanted to be a nurse at first! But when that path didnât work out, I trained as a hair and makeup artist with the goal of helping burn victims.
Becoming a hair and makeup artist allowed me to be creative while using my skills to empower people. Itâs never been about vanity for me. I was incredibly luckyâmy very first job was at the London Palladium, and from that moment on, I never left the world of theatre. I spent 15 amazing years in that space. It was the perfect career for my twenties; far better than any office job!
And youâve also worked in film! Does your approach differ when creating looks for live performance versus the camera?
Absolutelyâthereâs quite a big difference between wigs, hair, and makeup for theatre versus TV and film.
Makeup for theatre is much heavier than everyday makeup because stage lighting tends to wash everything out. We use specific techniques and tricks to make features pop under those lights. Timing is also crucial in theatre. You have to work fast, often with more performers than there are hair and makeup artists.
Wigs are different, too. In film, we use high-definition lace and everything is designed to look completely natural on camera. But in theatre, things are much more exaggerated because the audience is viewing from a distance. Itâs all about creating impact from afar.
Photo courtesy of Katie Oropallo
That sounds amazing! Youâve also done quite a few period wigs throughout your career. What do you love most about recreating historical hairstyles?
The history of wigs is something I totally geek out about! Theyâve been around since ancient Egypt, and thereâs just so much to explore. I honestly think Iâd make a great wig historian.
Recreating period hairstyles is incredibly satisfying. People used to spend so much time crafting these elaborate looks, and I love bringing that artistry back to life. Styling a wig for a few hours, music playing, just getting lost in the processâthatâs my happy place. And collaborating with the costume team to complete the overall look? Thatâs the cherry on top. I absolutely love it!
Wigs and makeup have the power to completely transform a personâs physical appearance. How do you balance authenticity with creativity?
It really depends on the designerâs vision! But for me, the balance often comes down to the techniques used to achieve the final look. Wig making and styling is such a traditional, artisan craftâitâs inherently rooted in authenticity. Even when weâre pushing creative boundaries, the foundation is always built on traditional techniques. Thatâs what makes it so special: you can innovate while still honoring the craftâs rich history.
Even when weâre doing something wild or modern, the techniques are rooted in tradition. So you get to be creative, but youâre still honoring the history behind it. Thatâs what makes it fun!
Photo courtesy of Katie OropalloPhoto courtesy of Katie Oropallo
Has working across different countries and industries influenced your perspective on beauty, identity, and storytelling through hair?
Every place Iâve worked has its own approach when it comes to hair, such as whatâs considered beautiful, how styles reflect identity, and the stories people want to tell. It made me realize that hair isnât just about looksâitâs about culture, history, and self-expression. Iâve learned to be more open-minded and creative, and to really listen to what people want their hair to say about them.
It reminds us of how itâs used in performance art forms like drag, too! What are your thoughts on their role in that space?
Yes! WIGS GIVE PEOPLE FREEDOM! They are used as an extension of self-expression. Just watch âRu Paulâs Drag Race!â
Beyond the stage and on camera, youâve also supported individuals dealing with hair loss. How has that experience shaped the way you view the emotional and psychological power of hair?
Most of my job is fun and creative, but working with people going through hair loss was a real shift. It hit me hard. Meeting people whoâve lost their hair and feel powerless about it is heartbreaking. You really canât imagine how tough that is until you see it up close.
Iâve had clients who stopped leaving the house because of bald patches. It affects their confidence, their identity, and even their relationships.
I have discovered that hair isnât just about styleâitâs emotional, itâs psychological, itâs deeply personal. Helping someone feel like themselves again through a wig or styling isnât just a job, itâs a privilege.
And this is central to your âReframeâ talk on Nov. 12. What do you want audiences to take away from your upcoming talk?
I want people to know that thereâs always a way forwardâno matter what youâre facing. Whether itâs hair loss or something else that affects how you see yourself, there are solutions, and there are people out there who understand and want to help. You donât have to stop living your best life just because something changes about your appearance.
And I really hope the talk makes people pause before they judge someone based on how they look. Weâre so quick to judge based on appearances, but thereâs always more going on beneath the surface. I want people to walk away feeling like transformation isnât about hiding flawsâitâs about owning your story. Whether itâs through wigs, makeup, or just showing up as yourself, confidence comes from feeling seen and accepted.
Beauty isnât one-size-fits-all, and transformation isnât always about vanityâitâs often about healing, confidence, and reclaiming your identity. If I can help shift that perspective even a little, Iâll be happy.
Photo courtesy of Katie Oropallo
Youâre also a lecturer at The Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts. How do you inspire your students to see beyond technique and understand the storytelling power of wigs and makeup?
I always encourage them to have fun with it! I teach them the core techniques, of course. But what excites me most is seeing how each student takes those skills and makes them their own. Everyone has a different creative voice, and I want them to feel confident exploring that. As long as they reach the desired outcome, itâs their own journey about how they get there.
I remind them that wigs and makeup arenât just about making someone look goodâtheyâre about telling a story. A hairstyle or the position and shape of an eyebrow can say so much about a characterâs journey, their mood, and their past. I push them to think about the âwhyâ behind every choice.
I also like to teach them about teamwork and looking out for others. Theatre is ALL team and not putting your ego first. The job is long hours and hard work sometimes, but we are lucky to have the creative industry.
I just want the students to laugh at work every day like I used to! It is important for creatives to know where they fit in and can have a successful career.
Thatâs awesome! So, whatâs next for you? Do you have any upcoming projects youâre looking forward to?
Iâll definitely continue teaching at HKAPA. I love working with the students there, and my job is so varied, I am never bored, and we create and develop ALL the time!
Iâd really like to set up a platform in Hong Kong for people dealing with hair loss. A space where they can access free information, support, and feel less alone. Iâm planning to start a blog too, sharing reviews and tips about the wig shops here, just to make things easier for anyone navigating that world.
And honestly, my ultimate dream? To become a wig historian. Iâm not joking! Iâm obsessed with the history of wigs and would love to dive even deeper into that world one day.
Photo from TED/Website
The TEDxTinHau Women 2025 returns on Nov. 12 and will feature talk segments from Katie Oropallo, Jacqueline Chak, Inga Conti-Jerpe, Shulin Ho and Emily Kusunoki, Uzma Naveed, and Dr. Shirla Sum. You can learn more about the speakers here.Â
Tickets are priced at HK$600 and are available here.
TEDxTinHau Women 2025 Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre Wed, November 12 1:00 PM
- 7:00 PM
TEDxTinHau Women 2025 returns on November 12 at Xiqu Centre, showcasing eight dynamic speakers under the theme "Reframe", exploring fresh perspectives on resilience, identity, design, and innovation.
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In todayâs fast-changing world, parents look for schools that can offer more than just strong academics. They want an environment that nurtures resilience, empathy, global awareness, and other important qualities that will help in shaping their childrenâs future. At Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong (LPCUWC), these values sit at the heart of its mission.
As part of the global United World Colleges movement, LPCUWC brings together students from across the world to live and learn in a community built on diversity and mutual respect. Its mission to âmake Education a force to unite People, Nations and Cultures for Peace and a Sustainable Futureâ shapes not only its International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma programme but also its focus on real-world issues, cultural exchange, and student-led initiatives.
Academic Innovation for a Sustainable Future
Courtesy of Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong
What sets LPCUWC apart is how it brings global issues directly into its curriculum. This year, the school has introduced its first-ever Marine Science course.
Co-taught by Dr. Wendy Liu-Hayes and Mr. Craig Hamilton, the course turns Hong Kongâs coastline into a living classroom, covering topics from El Niño and coral bleaching to global warming and storm preparedness. It equips students with scientific knowledge and practical awareness about our oceans, empowering them to become active stewards of the planet.
Living and Learning in a Global Community
The Beat AsiaCourtesy of Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong
LPCUWC is an all-boarding school that mirrors the diversity of the world. Students share their daily life on campus with people from different backgrounds, allowing them to learn from each other, form friendships for life, and develop a deeper understanding and respect for anotherâs culture, beliefs, and faith.
âUWC schools bring students from around the world and all walks of life together to be the model of peace and to try and improve sustainability. We have students in our college from 99 nationalities, and we have one of the most socio-economically diverse campuses on the planet,â LPCUWC Principal, Dr. Spencer A. Fowler, said.
"To say the least, LPC taught me to open up my eyes and heart to the diverse cultures all around the world and appreciate the beauty in the shared experience of being humans. This greatly motivated me to continue pursuing my goals among a broader backdrop that aims to contribute to the world meaningfully," Nicole Tang, a recent graduate (Class of 2024) and current student at the University of Chicago, adds about how her experience at LPCUWC shaped her outlook.
Education Beyond the Classroom
Courtesy of Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong
Learning doesnât stop at LPCUWCâs classroom doors. Through its unique Quan Cai programme, which fulfils the Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) component of the IB Diploma, students take part in projects that help shape communities.
This year, itâs supporting over 70 student-initiated projects, ranging from environmental conservation and community service to sports, arts, and innovative technology initiatives.
The school's diverse alumni network further expands opportunities for students during their studies and after graduation.
âLiving in Hong Kong gives us access to incredible resources and the GBA. Hong Kong also has the highest concentration of UWC graduates from around the world. These people want to support and give back,â Dr. Fowler shared.
LPCUWC Info Days
Admission for the upcoming academic year is now open, and families are invited to see the LPCUWC difference firsthand at their upcoming Info Day on Nov. 30, 2025.
âI welcome anyone to come to explore the school. Weâre always looking for new partners and friends, if you think thereâs room to improve the educational landscape and try to address other real-world issues,â concludes Dr. Fowler.
Guests can meet students and staff, tour the campus, and learn more about how the school prepares young people to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Registration is available via Eventbrite.
For more details, visit Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong's website or follow their Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts.
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In a digital world where influencers sell skincare routines and curated aesthetics, @blesiva_, or Belle, a 19-year-old university student, is doing something radically different.
With a fast-growing following of over 30k in just 10 months on Instagram, alongside a presence on YouTube and TikTok, sheâs using her platforms not to promote products, but to feed the elderly, support the overlooked, and quietly rewrite what it means to be âinfluentialâ in Hong Kong, all while choosing to remain anonymous.
We chatted with Belle to hear about her motivations, the emotional weight of her work, and her hopes for a more compassionate Hong Kong.
Instagram/ @blesiva_
Armed with a trolley, a camera, and a heart full of empathy, Belle has built a one-woman movement that supports some of Hong Kongâs most overlooked individuals â elderly cardboard collectors, street vendors, and others living on the margins. Through her Instagram, she documents her journey of distributing meals and monetary aid, using social media not for self-promotion, but as a tool for crowdfunding and awareness.
Her videos are simple: a hand reaching out with a meal, a quiet âthank you,â a smile exchanged on a busy street. But behind each viral clip is a story of courage, compassion, and a deep discomfort with the inequality she sees around her.
âIâve always been aware of my own privilege,â she says. âMy family provides me with a great life, but I know not everyone gets that, and itâs not their fault. Itâs just luck, and that feels unfair to me.â
While her videos may appear effortless, the journey behind them is anything but. Belleâs path to becoming one of Hong Kongâs most quietly impactful creators began with hesitation, self-doubt, and a deep desire to do something meaningful.
Belleâs first Instagram reel was posted in January this year, but her journey began long before that. âI procrastinated for a long time, wondering when or if I should do it,â she admits. âIâm not super extroverted either, and in my usual routine, I never really have to approach strangers.â
Inspired by creators like Josh Liljenquist and Aiden Kim, who used social media to fund acts of kindness, she decided to try. Her first outing was modest â buying bread from a local bakery with her private tutoring income and handing it out in Sham Shui Po. âPeople were really nice and really grateful, and I was glad I finally did it because I procrastinated for ages.â
That small act sparked something bigger. She kept posting, even when no one was watching. âThere were very few likes, no attention. But I just kept doing it.â Then, a video blew up. Donations started coming in. Suddenly, she had the means to keep going â and to scale.
What makes Belleâs work resonate isnât just what she does, but how she does it. âIf Iâm giving out meals and someone walks by and asks for one, Iâm not going to say no,â she says. âEven if they do have a lovely apartment and a great life and theyâre just taking a box of food from me, itâs just one box of food. I donât have the judgment or the power to decide who actually needs help and who doesnât.â
Her approach is rooted in empathy, not bureaucracy. One moment that stayed with her was when a cardboard-picking grandma received her favorite meal, a chicken rice. âShe was so happy, like, literally jumping in her spot,â Belle recalls. âShe said food is so expensive now, and [the meal's price] is basically her whole dayâs work.â
Belleâs reflections go beyond charity â theyâre a quiet manifesto for a more compassionate city.
âI feel like compassion and kindness in practice are really simple,â she says. âJust stopping for a conversation, smiling, or giving a few dollars to the beggars you see on the streets. So many people ignore them, but that kind of kindness can be normalized really easily in urban life.â
But with visibility comes criticism. Backlash for filming charitable interactions is common in today's digital age.
âThere are definitely a lot of very cynical people on the internet,â she shares, âAnd I donât understand this obsession with deciding who âdeservesâ help.â Her philosophy is simple: âLetâs say Iâm giving out meals and someone walks by and asks for one, Iâm not going to say no. Ok, maybe they dress well, maybe theyâre not that old. But how do you know theyâre not sleeping under a bridge?â
She adds, âThereâs no way Iâm going to ask people to prove they need help, like, âShow me your bank account.â Thatâs not how it works.â
Instagram/ @blesiva_Instagram/ @blesiva_
Sheâs learned to tune out the noise. âIf you know what youâre doing comes from goodwill, and most people support you, then you donât need to let criticism or backlash get to you. I post on social media so I can continue doing what I do. If I didnât post, Iâd only be able to do it a few times.â
Belleâs work also challenges the traditional definition of an influencer. In a digital landscape dominated by curated lifestyles and consumerism, she offers a different kind of influence â one rooted in empathy, action, and social responsibility. âI used to follow all these influencers who influenced me to buy the newest clothes, the newest lipsticks,â she says. âBut I started wondering: why arenât there influencers who inspire you to be a better person?â
Now, sheâs become that kind of influencer herself â without ever showing her face. âThereâs a group of high schoolers who started an account doing exactly what I do, buying and distributing food, and thatâs honestly so cool,â she says. âThatâs exactly what I hoped would happen: to inspire others to do the same.â
Why do you choose to give directly rather than through organizations?
Instagram/ @blesiva_
Giving directly allows me to film what I do and hopefully inspire some people and gain support. Thatâs my own reason for giving directly and I think it just works better with my schedule. I can go out whenever I have time.
With organizations, you have to register and follow their schedule. But for what I do, if I have free time, Iâll go out and give out food. That works well for me because Iâm a uni student, so my scheduleâs all over the place.
Have you faced any personal doubts or fears along the way, and what have you learned about yourself through this journey?
I think at the start, like when my first video blew up, I was obviously super excited. Nothing had ever gone viral for me before, and I was getting so much support. But I think with anything on social media, when you gain a lot of attention, thereâs always criticism that comes with it.
At first, I was checking all the comments and DMs constantly. I used to respond to the negative ones too, but I realized that most people who criticize me are very set in their ways. They donât really want to hear my reasoning or explanation. And that made me feel bad, because I knew I was just trying to help people but I was still getting criticized. So eventually, I stopped looking at comments for the most part.
Sometimes I do translate them, but I just ignore it. I know what Iâm doing, and I stand behind it. Iâm proud of it. I donât think Iâm doing anything bad. Everyone has their own perception of the world, shaped by their own reality. If someoneâs living a miserable life, theyâre probably going to have a miserable perception of things, and I canât really change that.
What is something people might not know about poverty in Hong Kong?
We have an aging population, and a lot of them donât have a support system like a family to look after them. Itâs really sad that so many of them still have to work. Cardboard picking is a lot of work, especially when youâre pushing a heavy trolley, and most of them have some kind of health issue. Some do get government benefits, but itâs very little and not enough to sustain themselves.
One thing that really shocked me is how common cardboard picking is among the elderly in Hong Kong. Itâs actually quite necessary â if you didnât have these elderly people picking up cardboard, youâd have stores overflowing with boxes. But the government is really strict about how they store their carts. They even confiscate their trolleys if theyâre parked in the wrong place or left overnight. And once itâs confiscated, they canât get it back. That feels like picking on the weak, which I really donât like.
Another thing about poverty in Hong Kong is how easy it is to ignore. You see the impoverished and the homeless, but you donât actually know where they live. Only when you see the subdivided flats, cage homes, coffin homes, do you really understand the magnitude of poverty here. People think of Hong Kong as the beautiful skyline, but they donât really see how poverty affects the people living in these areas.
What changes would you like to see in how the city supports the elderly and marginalized communities?
I think just from the perspective of everyday people, it starts with being a little kinder.
Even if you donât buy them anything, you can stop for a conversation. A lot of these elderly people live alone, and when you live alone, you donât really have anyone to talk to. Just talking with me makes some of them really happy because they feel listened to.
Even with beggars on the street, I hear people say, âOh, you shouldnât give money to beggars because theyâre not doing anything.â But donât you think they would be doing something if they could? The job market is terrible, and itâs really hard for some of them to find work, especially if theyâre disadvantaged or disabled.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to use social media for good while staying ethical and respectful?
Instagram/ @blesiva_
Figure out what you want to do and how you want to impact people. For me, I really want to help people, and the way I do that is by giving out food. I want people to feel inspired by my videos on social media, so thatâs how I decide what kind of content to make, how I edit, and how I post.
If you know what youâre doing comes from goodwill, and most people support you, then you donât need to let criticism or backlash get to you. Not that you shouldnât listen at all, you can take it into account, but a lot of people are just hating to hate. That really shouldnât affect you.
There are so many reels about âbecoming the best version of yourself,â studying hard, going to the gym, eating healthy. And thatâs great, but itâs all about improving your own life. I feel like being the best version of yourself should also include how you affect the people around you.
What do âcompassionâ or âkindnessâ mean to you in practice, and how do you think these can be normalized in urban life?
Instagram/ @blesiva_
Being kind doesnât mean you have to be a ray of sunshine every day or have a perfect temper. Itâs just about small things â supporting elderly people selling goods on the street, tipping them a little more, or even getting involved in volunteering events or supporting social enterprises and organizations.
Are there new formats, collaborations, or directions you're looking forward to exploring in the future?
I do have some other content creators whoâve reached out to collaborate, which Iâm quite excited about, though nothingâs confirmed yet. The content will still be around distributing food, but itâll be a different type of format from what I usually do.
I hope that by collaborating with people others look up to, itâll make an impact, like, âOh, I can do this too.â Iâll be able to reach more people.
What would you say to those who feel powerless in making an impact?
Instagram/ @blesiva_
If youâre feeling powerless, I get it. When I procrastinated, it was because I was scared. It took me six months from having the idea to actually doing something, and I wish I could get that time back.
How you spend your days is how you spend your life. If you want to help people, or even if itâs not about helping, but just pursuing something youâre passionate about, you should go for it. Nothingâs going to happen overnight. You have to put in the effort and actually try.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
To see Belleâs meaningful work in action, check out her videos and updates on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Her quiet acts of compassion are changing lives, and her feed is a reminder that kindness doesnât need a spotlight to make an impact.
Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out!âŻClick here to subscribe.
