The British and Australian Chambers of Commerce in Macau, BritCham and AustCham, held a joint “Women in Leadership” panel to celebrate 2021 International Women’s Day on Monday, where panelists discussed the changes and challenges of operating businesses amid the impacts of COVID-19.
The panel comprised four female leaders from organizations in Macau that have seen the ramifications of the pandemic first hand. They were President of the Board of Directors of the Architects Association of Macau and co-founder of JWCC Architecture, Christine Choi; Senior Vice President, Human Resources for Sands China, Hong Yan Wen; President and Chief Executive of Golden Burger, Michelle Ho; and Director and Designer – JML Property, Juliet Risdon.
The panel was moderated by Janet McNab, Multi-Property Vice President of Sheraton Grand Macao and The St Regis Macao, who noted the importance of recognizing the successes of women while acknowledging the many challenges they face around the world.
“So many aspects of our lives have been upended by COVID-19, and whilst the battle is far from over, days like today help us remind ourselves that the challenges and obstacles that women face will always evolve and we need input from women if we are to overcome them,” McNab said.
“Macau is home to so many women in positions of leadership – and it’s an honor to know and work with so many as they build, innovate and lead every day.”
Patrick Liu, Chairman of AustCham Macau, said, “Celebrating International Women’s Day and the achievements of women is especially important today as we reflect on the past year which saw so many women around the world lead the fight against the global pandemic.
“Looking to the future, women all over the world, across the range of so many industry and service sectors, and in households and communities, will undoubtedly continue to lead in this most important fight.”
Proceeds from the lunch including donations received prior to and on the day amounted to MOP$40,000, and were donated to the Good Shepherd Sisters to support their work supporting the welfare of women and girls. Sister Rosa, who attended the event, accepted the check on behalf of the Good Shepherd Sisters. Also attending the event were Mr Sam Tou, Director of BNU, which provided financial support to the event and Mr Johan Pretorius, Managing Director of DFS T-Galleria Macao, who provided gifts for all the speakers.
