Ritzy Hong Kong is excited to unveil our digital cover for March, honoring International Women’s Day with the theme “Empowered Voices.” This campaign highlights the remarkable journey of women entrepreneurs who are redefining success and driving transformative change in their respective industries. Through inspiring stories and striking visuals, we aim to amplify the voices of these trailblazers, encouraging others to pursue their dreams with confidence. By showcasing their achievements, challenges, and valuable insights, we aspire to cultivate a supportive community that fosters empowerment. In this special feature, we interviewed influential figures such as Ankie Beilke, Janice Kau, Sofia Paiva, and Hey.E Tse, delving into their experiences as women in the influencer industry. They share the obstacles they’ve faced, strategies for balancing career and family life, and the women who inspire them both personally and professionally. Additionally, they offer essential advice for young women aspiring to follow in their footsteps. Join us in celebrating the incredible contributions of women entrepreneurs who are shaping the future and making a lasting impact on the world.
Hey E Tse
Originally trained as an actress, Hey E Tse envisioned a career in film before launching her own brand. However, when the pandemic disrupted her plans, she pivoted, founding Hiu Cha Plus Tea—a brand that blends traditional tea culture with modern aesthetics. Leveraging her family’s tea business background, she infused lifestyle elements, such as jazz, into her branding, earning the nickname “the Hermès of Tea.” Recognizing that quality alone wasn’t enough, she later founded SOL Lifestyle, a collective dedicated to crafting meaningful lifestyle brands. To Hey E, entrepreneurship is a constant dance between vision and adaptation.
As a business leader, Hey E navigates immense pressure but prioritizes mental resilience. She believes that balance is key—whether through silent tea rituals, cooking, or escaping into a film. She emphasizes that stepping back isn’t weakness but wisdom.
The strongest women in Hey E’s life are her mother—who endured unimaginable hardship yet remained resilient—and Simone de Beauvoir, whose The Second Sex solidified her belief in self-determination. To aspiring female entrepreneurs, she advises cultivating an unshakable inner core, embracing failures as growth, and daring to claim their space. “The business world needs your voice—done is better than perfect.”
For International Women’s Month, Hey E chooses rest, reflecting on both progress and the challenges women still face. To her, true empowerment comes from turning awareness into action—not just in March, but every day.
Ankie Beilke
Ankie Beilke’s journey as a woman in Hong Kong’s modeling and acting industry has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. Navigating a landscape filled with stereotypes, unequal pay, and the pressure to conform to specific beauty standards, Ankie has always maintained a strong belief in herself and her abilities. This self-confidence has been crucial in overcoming obstacles, as she remains true to her identity while continuously honing her skills and surrounding herself with a supportive network of friends and colleagues. Balancing her demanding career with family life is a constant juggling act for Ankie. She prioritizes tasks based on their importance, delegates when necessary, and ensures she dedicates quality time to her family. Open communication is vital in maintaining this balance, as she makes sure her loved ones understand the demands of her job while also attending to their needs.
Ankie draws inspiration from several remarkable women, including trailblazers like Michelle Yeoh and Maggie Cheung, whose talent and resilience have influenced her approach to both her career and motherhood. Personally, her mother remains her biggest inspiration. For young women aspiring to enter the modeling or acting industry, Ankie’s advice is to believe in themselves and never give up on their dreams. Staying true to one’s identity, working hard, and continuously improving skills are essential. She encourages seeking mentorship and surrounding oneself with positive influences. Celebrating womanhood means embracing strength, resilience, and uniqueness. For Ankie, International Women’s Month is a time to reflect on progress toward gender equality and empower women to reach their full potential. She actively supports initiatives that promote women’s rights, gender equality, and empowerment, advocating for education programs for girls and campaigns against gender-based violence. Together, we can uplift and support one another in the journey toward a more inclusive world.
Janice Kau
Janice Kau’s journey as a woman in the MC and influencer industry in Hong Kong began while she was working at a radio station from 2012 to 2016. It was during this time that she had her first hosting opportunities, which eventually led her to pursue a full-time career as an MC. Janice has faced various challenges, including the need to constantly improve her skills and the pressure of delivering engaging performances. She believes that the key to success in this field lies in passion and dedication. Balancing her career with family life has been a juggling act due to the unpredictable nature of her work. She often has days filled with multiple events, making time management crucial. After marrying, Janice learned to prioritize quality time with her family and set aside specific days for rest and personal interests. This shift has allowed her to create a more balanced life, enhancing her well-being and enriching her relationships.
Janice draws inspiration from many influential women, particularly the esteemed host, Maria Cordero, whose elegance and professionalism she admires. She aims to emulate Maria’s grace and control during events. For young women aspiring to become MCs, Janice emphasizes the importance of self-belief, a positive mindset, and understanding the nuances of hosting. She encourages them to seek mentorship and continuously enhance their skills. Celebrating womanhood is significant for Janice, especially during International Women’s Month, which she views as an opportunity to reflect on gender equality and empower women. She actively supports initiatives that promote women’s rights and health, such as a recent campaign encouraging women to prioritize their wellness. Through shared experiences and collective effort, Janice hopes to inspire others to embrace their journeys and pursue their dreams.
Sofia Paiva
Sofia Paiva’s journey as a model and influencer in Macau has been a blend of excitement and challenges. Navigating the fast-paced and competitive nature of the industry, she has faced immense pressure to meet shifting beauty standards and societal expectations. Early in her career, Sofia encountered criticism regarding her appearance and often found herself typecast in certain roles. To overcome this, she dedicated herself to honing her craft, exploring diverse characters, and selecting projects that broke stereotypes. Resilience and self-belief became her guiding principles, leading her to realize that authenticity resonates more than perfection. By embracing her unique identity, she has carved a meaningful path.
Balancing her career and personal life is an ongoing practice for Sofia. In an unpredictable field, she emphasizes intentional time management by setting clear boundaries, reserving weekends for family and hobbies like golfing. Prioritizing self-care is essential; even a brief daily routine of yoga or meditation helps her recharge. She has learned to decline projects that do not align with her passions, focusing on quality over quantity in both work and life.
Sofia’s greatest inspiration is her mother, who has been her emotional anchor and mentor. She instilled in Sofia the importance of authenticity and resilience, reminding her that true success lies in staying true to oneself rather than seeking universal approval. This wisdom encourages Sofia to uplift others while pursuing her own opportunities.
To young aspiring women, Sofia advises: “Own your story unapologetically.” Embrace your uniqueness as your greatest strength, invest in your well-being, and surround yourself with supportive individuals. As we celebrate womanhood, especially during International Women’s Month, let’s honor those who paved the way and continue advocating for gender equality.
