Mary Cheung

I had the privilege of spending a day with a lady of great elegance, composure and a role model to many generations. 

Mary Cheung is most well known for her crowning of Miss Hong Kong in 1975. She went on to become the founder and managing director of 'Mary Cheung & Associates (International) Ltd." which has seen her working with a range of organisations and companies.

During my time with her I listened to her stories on how she looked past the struggles in life to achieve her goals and visions in giving back to the world. At a young age she was forced to live on the streets for several years before being taken into one of Hong Kong's orphanages. Despite a harsh childhood she has grown into an inspirational woman for people not just in Hong Kong but also internationally.

One of her greatest passion is painting and capturing moments through her photographic works. Her honorary positions with various charities such as World Vision, Oxfam, Aids Concern and Friend of the Earth (to name a few) has allowed her to travel around the world capturing simple and raw moments of children, reflections and things which we take for granted. She is currently in Sydney for her photography exhibition. If you are in Sydney head over to her exhibition. Her photos are not to be missed. 

A few of my favourite photos from her "Inspire" collection.

To spend a day with me without exploring food would be a day which never existed. One of Mary's favourite countries to visit is France and their alfresco cafes and restaurants. So what better place to take Mary than Eros Kafe! Although it is a far cry from the streets of Paris but this greek cuisine restaurant brings a touch of Europe with their open windows looking onto the  restaurants and boutiques of the East End District.

Our second meal was a late night supper stop at Citizen. One of Adelaide's finest restaurants for a Chinese cuisine banquet. This restaurant is truly breath taking. The interior design is modern but captures key elements of Chinese culture. Whether you are there for yum cha, business lunch, family gatherings or a wedding banquet the staff and chefs always deliver a satisfying meal. 

I was extremely honoured to have spent quality time meeting Mary and her husband John. Dining with her, listening to her seminars and sending her off at the airport on her next part of her tour was a great experience and one I will remember. A true inspiration for myself and to many around the world. 

X MM