"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."
Challenging Assumptions
Our Family’s Initiative Talk:
3 speakers 2 stories 1 message
“StandUp4Others”
Mui
Respect the challenge
See the person
Respect the challenge
See the person
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Tina & Rog
Respect the underdog
"StandUp4Others"
Respect the underdog
"StandUp4Others"
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What made Tina, a 26-year-old woman (the granddaughter of a Jewish Holocaust survivor) who was driven to a teenage breakdown, give up her dream, her job, her career to fight for an abandoned baby society hid away in an institution and whose prognosis was "death in infancy"?
What happened next will surprise you...
“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
What happened next will surprise you...
“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
To Book a Talk:
Please contact us via our Facebook page or our email
thegirlbehindthefacehk@gmail.com
Many people set the bar so low for individuals with special needs and for the campaigners/activists 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 and bias is a huge part of the challenge with regard to diversity and inclusivity. So of course we charge a small fee.
Please contact us via our Facebook page or our email
thegirlbehindthefacehk@gmail.com
Many people set the bar so low for individuals with special needs and for the campaigners/activists 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 and bias is a huge part of the challenge with regard to diversity and inclusivity. So of course we charge a small fee.
Sponsorship
- Our first international speaking tour to Melbourne, Australia was sponsored by Cathay Pacific Business Class & SINO Group
Sponsors have included
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Pragmatic Diversity & Inclusion means giving an honest and gritty account of the facts.
The truth that the facts bear out is for the listener to conclude.
Our aim is to widen the range of thought.
Testimonial
“What a privilege to hear the Thomas family’s story!
This is a story of compassion, grit, tenacity, courage and resilience.
The story is raw and real, challenging the listener to explore their own prejudices and inaction.”
Joy Penner, Vice Principal, Island Christian Academy
“What a privilege to hear the Thomas family’s story!
This is a story of compassion, grit, tenacity, courage and resilience.
The story is raw and real, challenging the listener to explore their own prejudices and inaction.”
Joy Penner, Vice Principal, Island Christian Academy
“The simply inspiring Thomas family… has made it their life mission to teach us about the devastating harm that ensues as a result of rampant discrimination and bullying but also to send the message that we must not be bystanders in the face of it.”
Vicki Factor, President, Access Inc. Charity
Vicki Factor, President, Access Inc. Charity
"Despite the hardship that Ms Thomas and her family have endured, she doesn't let her condition discourage her." Daily Mail
Our Family Initiative: "StandUp 4 Others", is our most powerful tool to challenge prejudice, indifference and discrimination. The three of us present on stage together, varying the delivery back and forth
- "We all need to be reminded of the terrible human cost of bullying."
- Harlequin Ichthyosis & Autism Spectrum Disorder do not come with a manual.
- Tina’s birth family was exterminated in the Holocaust.
“Amazing Mui and her equally amazing parents Tina and Rog presented a powerful reminder of why we work to stop bullying.” Melissa Muir, U.S. District Court, Seattle
“It was so emotional you could feel the tension in the room.”
Vanessa Cardigan, Hub manager, The Marketing Society – Hong Kong
“It was so emotional you could feel the tension in the room.”
Vanessa Cardigan, Hub manager, The Marketing Society – Hong Kong
Corporate Talks:
Thank-you so much for sharing your personal story with us in such a powerful, moving and inspiring session. Your family’s continued courage, spirit and strength in the face of discrimination is phenomenal.
Steven McGuigan, Nomura International (Hong Kong) Limited
“We have heard nothing but rave reviews from everybody and all really enjoyed the discussion and were very inspired by your openness, personal insight and learning. In fact there were tears across the audience and you really delivered a powerful message with a huge emotional impact. In all my years of attending events, discussions and conferences I have never seen a standing ovation like you received which means you absolutely touched the hearts of many. Your story resonated with everybody in the room and many have also talked about how they could work closely with you to help you with your upcoming book and promotions.”
Darren Chuckry, Chair at The Marketing Society
Event sponsored by the Wall Street Journal and LinkedIn
Thank-you so much for sharing your personal story with us in such a powerful, moving and inspiring session. Your family’s continued courage, spirit and strength in the face of discrimination is phenomenal.
Steven McGuigan, Nomura International (Hong Kong) Limited
“We have heard nothing but rave reviews from everybody and all really enjoyed the discussion and were very inspired by your openness, personal insight and learning. In fact there were tears across the audience and you really delivered a powerful message with a huge emotional impact. In all my years of attending events, discussions and conferences I have never seen a standing ovation like you received which means you absolutely touched the hearts of many. Your story resonated with everybody in the room and many have also talked about how they could work closely with you to help you with your upcoming book and promotions.”
Darren Chuckry, Chair at The Marketing Society
Event sponsored by the Wall Street Journal and LinkedIn
“Mui, Tina and Rog provided two talks at our annual conference. They received a standing ovation and all of our members were deeply moved and inspired. Standing up for Others and knowing that individuals are at the heart of all we do is of paramount importance.
We would invite you again and again and would recommend you to anyone. The three of you are wonderful in all ways.
We all need to be reminded of the terrible human cost of bullying. Mui and her family inspired our members and provided this important reminder that we should not forget that numbers and statistics represent individuals who are suffering. I would recommend the Thomas family to anyone who seeks to create positive change.”
Associate Professor Dr Lorraine Sheridan,
President, Asia Pacific Association of Threat Assessment Professionals:
We would invite you again and again and would recommend you to anyone. The three of you are wonderful in all ways.
We all need to be reminded of the terrible human cost of bullying. Mui and her family inspired our members and provided this important reminder that we should not forget that numbers and statistics represent individuals who are suffering. I would recommend the Thomas family to anyone who seeks to create positive change.”
Associate Professor Dr Lorraine Sheridan,
President, Asia Pacific Association of Threat Assessment Professionals:
School Talks:
“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.”
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.”
Ann Haydon, The Head of Harrow International School
To date our Family Initiative has raised over HK$53,015.30 for related causes (see below)
Our Family Initiative has raised HK$38,515.30 for ichthyosis related causes (see below)
Our speaking tour to Australia also raised over HK$12,500 for Courage to Care, a charity educating about the dangers of prejudice, racism and discrimination and promoting acceptance of diversity across society, as well as HK$2,000 for Access Inc. promoting the rights and interests of people with disabilities.
Our Family Initiative has raised HK$38,515.30 for ichthyosis related causes (see below)
Our speaking tour to Australia also raised over HK$12,500 for Courage to Care, a charity educating about the dangers of prejudice, racism and discrimination and promoting acceptance of diversity across society, as well as HK$2,000 for Access Inc. promoting the rights and interests of people with disabilities.
Feedback on our Talks:
Tracy Riccio, Diocesan Boys’ School Talk:
“Such an incredible story told by incredible people.”
Jong Lee, TEDx Hong Kong says:
“It was great to have you. I wanted to extend our sincerest thanks for being probably the best group TEDx speakers that we have ever had… and there is no question that the audience was blown away!”
Tim Wannenmacher, Managing Director UBS says:
“You are changing our community for the better. Everybody needs to listen to your story.”
Deborah Crouch, Chief Executive of The Samaritans says:
“Their story… was touching, sometimes amusing and sometimes painful. It has not been easy for them, but their strength and sincerity are incredible.”
John S. Parsons, Discovery College, PTA says:
“Inspiring family - listening to their story was edge-of-the-seat” interesting.”
Lesley Cooke, Yew Chung International School says:
“We all loved the talk! The whole room burst into thunderous applause.”
More testimonials below
“Such an incredible story told by incredible people.”
Jong Lee, TEDx Hong Kong says:
“It was great to have you. I wanted to extend our sincerest thanks for being probably the best group TEDx speakers that we have ever had… and there is no question that the audience was blown away!”
Tim Wannenmacher, Managing Director UBS says:
“You are changing our community for the better. Everybody needs to listen to your story.”
Deborah Crouch, Chief Executive of The Samaritans says:
“Their story… was touching, sometimes amusing and sometimes painful. It has not been easy for them, but their strength and sincerity are incredible.”
John S. Parsons, Discovery College, PTA says:
“Inspiring family - listening to their story was edge-of-the-seat” interesting.”
Lesley Cooke, Yew Chung International School says:
“We all loved the talk! The whole room burst into thunderous applause.”
More testimonials below
We hold motivational talks to challenge attitudes and raise awareness amongst the general public and decision-makers
ONE person CAN make a difference.
ONE person CAN make a difference.
Challenging Attitudes & Empowering Others
Tina:
A childhood that could get dark and sad and drive you to a breakdown.
You set your goal high and try to achieve it.
Mui:
Hidden away on the fringes of society because of an unusual appearance.
20 years of discrimination.
Parents of a child with special needs:
You confront the challenges and must find the solutions
Tina:
A childhood that could get dark and sad and drive you to a breakdown.
You set your goal high and try to achieve it.
Mui:
Hidden away on the fringes of society because of an unusual appearance.
20 years of discrimination.
Parents of a child with special needs:
You confront the challenges and must find the solutions
Parent Talks:
Johnny Depp said: “The kids, bless them, they’re so strong, they're so courageous... but the parents are the ones who are slowly dying. And to be able to bring a smile or giggle to these people means everything in the world to me."
Tina says: "I know what it's like to feel worthless and rejected. I never want anybody else to feel like that. And as parents, we know what it is to feel helpless and alone."
Johnny Depp said: “The kids, bless them, they’re so strong, they're so courageous... but the parents are the ones who are slowly dying. And to be able to bring a smile or giggle to these people means everything in the world to me."
Tina says: "I know what it's like to feel worthless and rejected. I never want anybody else to feel like that. And as parents, we know what it is to feel helpless and alone."
Keynote Speaker topics include:
- Visible Difference
- Cyberbullying
- Mental Health: adverse childhood experiences, anxiety, isolation, depression
- Discrimination, Prejudice, Inclusion
- Special Needs Adoption / Special Needs Parenting
Testimonials
Corporate Talks NGO Talks School Talks
Corporate Talks NGO Talks School Talks
Corporate Talks:
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+)
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+)
Ryan Holsheimer – Managing Director, J.P. Morgan
We had approximately 110 people in the auditorium and joining via telepresence for your Family Talk. Many of those colleagues have reached out to me to express their thanks and say how they had been touched by your family’s story – and the way you tell it. You have faced many painful challenges as a family and your courage to speak of those challenges gave us all tremendous respect for your family’s journey and gratitude for sharing it with us. Thank you for such a moving and thought provoking session. We look forward to staying in touch with the wonderful Thomas Family.
We had approximately 110 people in the auditorium and joining via telepresence for your Family Talk. Many of those colleagues have reached out to me to express their thanks and say how they had been touched by your family’s story – and the way you tell it. You have faced many painful challenges as a family and your courage to speak of those challenges gave us all tremendous respect for your family’s journey and gratitude for sharing it with us. Thank you for such a moving and thought provoking session. We look forward to staying in touch with the wonderful Thomas Family.
Lawyer Sarah Ingwersen: Partner – Global Head of In-house at Taylor Root
Rog, Tina and Mui were the guests for our company’s International Women’s Day 2021 webinar. As a family unit they shared their story of The Girl Behind The Face and highlighted the many issues they have faced; discrimination, prejudice, abuse, unwanted curiosity, hatred, cyberbullying, mental health issues and ultimately survival. They have forged a loving life together – full of love, compassion, humour and support - to overcome all of this. Their story was truly inspirational, uplifting, humorous and honest. The feedback from our global colleagues and clients has been overwhelming and your story has inspired us all. I have no doubt the messages you shared will challenge our behaviours by bringing awareness of the myriad of issues you discussed. You are all very special people and I feel honoured and privileged to have been a part of the discussion.
(Our first zoom talk was for International Women’s Day which was live-streamed to audiences in APAC, Middle East and Europe.)
Rog, Tina and Mui were the guests for our company’s International Women’s Day 2021 webinar. As a family unit they shared their story of The Girl Behind The Face and highlighted the many issues they have faced; discrimination, prejudice, abuse, unwanted curiosity, hatred, cyberbullying, mental health issues and ultimately survival. They have forged a loving life together – full of love, compassion, humour and support - to overcome all of this. Their story was truly inspirational, uplifting, humorous and honest. The feedback from our global colleagues and clients has been overwhelming and your story has inspired us all. I have no doubt the messages you shared will challenge our behaviours by bringing awareness of the myriad of issues you discussed. You are all very special people and I feel honoured and privileged to have been a part of the discussion.
(Our first zoom talk was for International Women’s Day which was live-streamed to audiences in APAC, Middle East and Europe.)
Nidhi Satish - Senior Manager Fidelity International
Dear Mui, Tina and Rog
Thank you so much for coming and sharing your inspiring personal journey in our organisation today. It really motivated and moved all of us and really expanded our vision about life and overcoming obstacles. Love your spirit. Best wishes for a wonderful year ahead and look forward to staying in touch....Cheers!
(Our talk was live-streamed to Sydney & Melbourne in Australia, Seoul in South Korea, Singapore, Taipei in Taiwan & Dalian in China.)
Dear Mui, Tina and Rog
Thank you so much for coming and sharing your inspiring personal journey in our organisation today. It really motivated and moved all of us and really expanded our vision about life and overcoming obstacles. Love your spirit. Best wishes for a wonderful year ahead and look forward to staying in touch....Cheers!
(Our talk was live-streamed to Sydney & Melbourne in Australia, Seoul in South Korea, Singapore, Taipei in Taiwan & Dalian in China.)
NGO Talks:
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.”
“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.”
Goldie Avtzon - Talk Organiser
I have heard many inspirational speeches... this one especially touched my heart. The sincerity, humility and positivity of Tina and Rog was mind blowing. Thank you! (Audience 50+)
I have heard many inspirational speeches... this one especially touched my heart. The sincerity, humility and positivity of Tina and Rog was mind blowing. Thank you! (Audience 50+)
Jong Lee - TEDx Hong Kong
It was great to have you. I wanted to extend our sincerest thanks for being probably the best group TEDx HKED speakers that we have ever had… and there is no question that the audience was blown away! (700 people approx.)
It was great to have you. I wanted to extend our sincerest thanks for being probably the best group TEDx HKED speakers that we have ever had… and there is no question that the audience was blown away! (700 people approx.)
Sr Juliana Devoy - Round Table Discussion on Adoption, Macau
“I hope that more and more people can come to know and be inspired by their story.
I had learned part of the story before they came to Macau and was deeply moved by it and felt so grateful that they agreed to come and share with us. All the participants in this event greatly appreciated the opportunity of having them with us.
This couple was able to see and nurture the inner goodness and beauty of this child who was given to them and love her into becoming the self confident woman she is today.”
“I hope that more and more people can come to know and be inspired by their story.
I had learned part of the story before they came to Macau and was deeply moved by it and felt so grateful that they agreed to come and share with us. All the participants in this event greatly appreciated the opportunity of having them with us.
This couple was able to see and nurture the inner goodness and beauty of this child who was given to them and love her into becoming the self confident woman she is today.”
Sir David Tang - Royal Commonwealth Society HK (RCSHK), The China Club
"As a family, of whom I am an admiring friend, you cannot get a more decent and loving and compassionate example than the Thomases, all of whom deserve our utter admiration." Sir David Tang
"As a family, of whom I am an admiring friend, you cannot get a more decent and loving and compassionate example than the Thomases, all of whom deserve our utter admiration." Sir David Tang
Angel Fu - TEDx Hong Kong
Once again, I would like to thank your family on behalf of my team for sharing your inspiring philosophy with us!
Once again, I would like to thank your family on behalf of my team for sharing your inspiring philosophy with us!
Carola Chard – Rotary Club, Kowloon
Many thanks to give us your talk and share some of your story with us. You and your family have a very important message to share with the world, and I appreciate that you made the time for us.
Many thanks to give us your talk and share some of your story with us. You and your family have a very important message to share with the world, and I appreciate that you made the time for us.
School & College Talks:
Tracy Riccio Diocesan Boys’ School
200 students
"Such an incredible story told by incredible people.
Take the time to find out about it"
200 students
"Such an incredible story told by incredible people.
Take the time to find out about it"
John Parsons Discovery College, PTA
A very big thank you to all 3 of you for your time on Thursday night.
It really was an excellent presentation.
The feedback we have received via the PTA has been very positive. Below a small selection of some of the comments:
"Inspiring family - listening to their story was "edge of the seat" interesting"
'Hearing Mui speak was incredibly moving and personalized cyberbullying"
"only wish my kids could have heard the talk, it was great"
Karen Forsyth Discovery College, PTA Administrator
The presentation was fantastic and hit home to many adults of how exposed our young people are these days, and others not realizing the effect they have on others.
A very big thank you to all 3 of you for your time on Thursday night.
It really was an excellent presentation.
The feedback we have received via the PTA has been very positive. Below a small selection of some of the comments:
"Inspiring family - listening to their story was "edge of the seat" interesting"
'Hearing Mui speak was incredibly moving and personalized cyberbullying"
"only wish my kids could have heard the talk, it was great"
Karen Forsyth Discovery College, PTA Administrator
The presentation was fantastic and hit home to many adults of how exposed our young people are these days, and others not realizing the effect they have on others.
Lesley J Cooke. Learning Support Coordinator, Yew Chung International School.
300 students from Years 7 to 9
We all loved the talk! The whole room burst into thunderous applause. The teachers are amazed at the response of the students. The children were discussing it during the day and commenting that it was so nice to have a family speaking. The staff and students are still talking about your talk.
Students and teachers alike express their gratitude for the Thomas family’s presentation, and how some felt so moved… they even shed a tear!
Thanks to you all!
300 students from Years 7 to 9
We all loved the talk! The whole room burst into thunderous applause. The teachers are amazed at the response of the students. The children were discussing it during the day and commenting that it was so nice to have a family speaking. The staff and students are still talking about your talk.
Students and teachers alike express their gratitude for the Thomas family’s presentation, and how some felt so moved… they even shed a tear!
Thanks to you all!
Mary Paciello – Head of year 10 Sha Tin college
Dear Tina, Rog and Mui,
I wanted to say a big thank you to you all for the talk. I have spoken to staff and students and they have all given very positive feedback. They felt the talk was well-paced, very direct and easy to follow. They also felt that there was variety in presentation so that they never got bored or restless. The message of acceptance was a very clear one and when I talked with one of the year 10 classes today they were able to make connections with the work we have been doing on "picture perfect".
(Year 10 – ages 14-15 – 178 students.)
Dear Tina, Rog and Mui,
I wanted to say a big thank you to you all for the talk. I have spoken to staff and students and they have all given very positive feedback. They felt the talk was well-paced, very direct and easy to follow. They also felt that there was variety in presentation so that they never got bored or restless. The message of acceptance was a very clear one and when I talked with one of the year 10 classes today they were able to make connections with the work we have been doing on "picture perfect".
(Year 10 – ages 14-15 – 178 students.)
Linda Olson – Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong:
Dear All,
Thank you SO much for coming in today. We learned so much from you and there were many people deeply touched by your sharing.
(256 students.)
Dear All,
Thank you SO much for coming in today. We learned so much from you and there were many people deeply touched by your sharing.
(256 students.)
Lucie Purves – Head of Lower School, Sha Tin college
Dear Mui, Tina and Rog
Thank you so much for coming to Sha Tin College on Tuesday. It was one of the most inspirational talks I have been to and it was a real privilege for the staff and students to hear your story.
The Y8 students will be doing a follow up task tomorrow morning to reflect on what they learned from listening to you.
(Year 4 – ages 12-13 – 178 students.)
Dear Mui, Tina and Rog
Thank you so much for coming to Sha Tin College on Tuesday. It was one of the most inspirational talks I have been to and it was a real privilege for the staff and students to hear your story.
The Y8 students will be doing a follow up task tomorrow morning to reflect on what they learned from listening to you.
(Year 4 – ages 12-13 – 178 students.)
Phil Morgan – Renaissance College, RCHK
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insights with Year Eight today. It was a powerful assembly for all of us
(250 students)
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insights with Year Eight today. It was a powerful assembly for all of us
(250 students)
- Queen Elizabeth School Old Students’ Association Secondary School
- Kellett School
- Island School PTA
- Mother's Choice
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