"I have heard many presentations over the years on individuals overcoming challenges due to disabilities, but nothing as raw, unfiltered, and articulate as the experiences the Thomas family shared. Tina’s backstory was also compelling and emotional that perhaps shaped her as a mom to Mui.” Capital Group
Challenging Assumptions
Our Family’s Initiative Talk:
"a universal story of hope & courage"
3 speakers 2 stories 1 message
“StandUp4Others”
Actions NOT Words
Mental health is our initiative’s through-line. It is central to our message.
How did a 26 year old woman (the granddaughter of a Jewish Holocaust survivor) driven to a mental health breakdown at 19 summon the courage, self-belief & resilience to fight so fiercely for an abandoned little girl society preferred to hide away.
What happened as that child born with an unusual appearance was given the opportunity to grow into a woman, the 4th oldest survivor in the world?
How do parents of children with special needs & the individuals cope?
What happened as that child born with an unusual appearance was given the opportunity to grow into a woman, the 4th oldest survivor in the world?
How do parents of children with special needs & the individuals cope?
“The remarkable story of Mui Thomas might bring a tear to your eye.” The Guardian
A real life version of the young adult novel "Wonder". CNN
A real life version of the young adult novel "Wonder". CNN
To book a talk, please email us: thegirlbehindthefacehk@gmail.com
Many people set the bar so low for activists and for individuals with special needs that they expect such people to share their experiences, time and message for no fee, as if these people should simply be grateful for the opportunity to be seen and heard.
Such condescension & bias is a huge part of the challenge with regard to the synergy and collaboration required to strengthen connections for guilt-free diversity and inclusivity. So of course we charge a small fee.
Such condescension & bias is a huge part of the challenge with regard to the synergy and collaboration required to strengthen connections for guilt-free diversity and inclusivity. So of course we charge a small fee.
Testimonials
Corporate:
Tim Wannenmacher, Managing Director at UBS
“Thank you for sharing your inspiring story of courage in the face of discrimination. It was clear that your story resonated with everyone in the room. Many struggle against adversity but only a few have the strength to stand up and bring about change in a society, parts of which had let you down previously. It was also heartening to learn how you received the kindness of strangers which goes to show how little it sometimes takes to make a hugely positive impact. You are changing our community for the better. Everybody needs to listen to your story. (Audience 120+)”
NGO:
Deborah Crouch is the Chief Executive of The Samaritans:
“Listening to Rog, Tina and Mui talk of the experiences that have brought them to this point elicited enormous respect and admiration. Their story, describing the decisions they had to make and why, and how those around them reacted - and not always with encouragement - and why they wanted to share their past, was touching, sometimes amusing and sometimes painful. It has not been easy for them, but their strength and sincerity are incredible.”
School:
Ann Haydon, The Head of Harrow International School
“What a privilege to meet the totally awesome Thomas family.
What resilience, courage, love and positivity they radiated.
A strong message for all of us. Thank you for inspiring Harrow International School.”
Tim Wannenmacher, Managing Director at UBS
“Thank you for sharing your inspiring story of courage in the face of discrimination. It was clear that your story resonated with everyone in the room. Many struggle against adversity but only a few have the strength to stand up and bring about change in a society, parts of which had let you down previously. It was also heartening to learn how you received the kindness of strangers which goes to show how little it sometimes takes to make a hugely positive impact. You are changing our community for the better. Everybody needs to listen to your story. (Audience 120+)”
NGO:
Deborah Crouch is the Chief Executive of The Samaritans:
“Listening to Rog, Tina and Mui talk of the experiences that have brought them to this point elicited enormous respect and admiration. Their story, describing the decisions they had to make and why, and how those around them reacted - and not always with encouragement - and why they wanted to share their past, was touching, sometimes amusing and sometimes painful. It has not been easy for them, but their strength and sincerity are incredible.”
School:
Ann Haydon, The Head of Harrow International School
“What a privilege to meet the totally awesome Thomas family.
What resilience, courage, love and positivity they radiated.
A strong message for all of us. Thank you for inspiring Harrow International School.”
“The kids, bless them, they’re so strong, they're so courageous... but the parents are the ones who are slowly dying." Johnny Depp
"Despite the hardship that Ms Thomas and her family have endured, she doesn't let her condition discourage her." Daily Mail