THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ethnically diverse communities by reducing suffering and providing opportunities NEWS/ HONG KONG/ CITY Press Release – Embargo until 1 pm on 27 March 2026
Her Story, Her Strength: A Tribute to Those Who Rise Against All Odds Three Remarkable Ethnically Diverse Women Inspire Hong Kong with Stories of Courage Hong Kong, 27 March 2026 – The Zubin Foundation, a registered charity in Hong Kong dedicated to reducing suffering and creating opportunities for the city’s ethnically diverse communities, hosted a heartfelt social impact luncheon themed “Her Story, Her Strength” at Club Lusitano. The event brought together three remarkable women who shared deeply personal journeys of resilience – including domestic violence, forced marriage, poverty, discrimination and mental health challenges.
Voices of Courage and Resilience Through the stories shared by our speakers, we witnessed the courage of women who are too often unseen. They spoke about trauma, healing, and the transformative role of timely support: Kiran Khan (pseudonym), (30, a survivor of forced marriage and domestic violence) reflected on how support and safety enabled her to rebuild her life: “I experienced domestic abuse from a young age and forced marriage in my early twenties, which stole my youth and brought trauma. Despite threats and losing financial support, I fought for my freedom. The Zubin Foundation was my lifeline offering emotional and tangible support, connecting me to shelter, social services and legal aid. I wouldn’t be where I’m today without them. Now studying law and working in the legal field, I share my story to empower other women facing similar trauma. Healing was possible because someone believed in me. Your support can light the path for the next sister in need before another life is shattered beyond repair.” Narag Kezra Leigh (21, a final year Social Work student at City University of Hong Kong and The Zubin Foundation Scholarship Recipient) shared how poverty shaped her childhood, adding, “Growing up in a tiny subdivided flat with food insecurity and an overworked single mother, poverty cast long shadows over my childhood. Receiving this scholarship has shown me the power of education. With the financial scholarship and mentorship, I have expanded networks and gained self-esteem. Today, I carry hope for families like mine, turning personal struggle into purpose through education and community care. From my experience, I know that poverty can claim another generation of ethnically diverse youth. Act now to secure their futures.” Gopalakrishnan Srilaletha (24, award-winning designer) spoke about overcoming discrimination, “As a teen, I struggled with racial bullying, gender pressures, and anxiety, which caused academic setbacks. I felt isolated and misunderstood. The Zubin Foundation's counselling rebuilt me. I learnt to stay true to my values and prioritised my well-being. Now, I transform pain into art that heals – proof that with support, strength can bloom. Mental health crises in our communities are escalating. We need support, or more young women like me will lose years to silence and suffering.”
© 2026 The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344). All rights reserved.
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