About the Talk 

Since 1986, Bethune House has provided shelter services (food and accommodation), emergency relief assistance, legal and medical case support, counselling and psychosocial activities for Asian migrant women, mainly foreign domestic helpers. In this talk, Ms. Antonio will discuss the work of Bethune House, and why shelters are so crucial to support migrant workers. She will also share on the challenges and joys of working as a leader at Bethune House and serving the migrant community in Hong Kong. In keeping with the theme of International Women’s Day 2026, #GivetoGain the talk will help its participants learn more about the power of reciprocity and support to develop justice and equality for women in their work and lives in Hong Kong.

About the Speaker

Ms. Edwina Antonio has devoted over 35 years to supporting distressed women migrants. She has witnessed the harsh realities of economic displacement faced by women from impoverished countries, who often find themselves disempowered and marginalized in Hong Kong.

As the Executive Director of this vital community shelter, Edwina tirelessly represents Bethune House at charity events while being deeply involved in the daily operations and fundraising efforts. Leaving her life in the Philippines in 1989, she embraced the mission to uplift migrant workers in Hong Kong. 24-hour on call, she understands the critical importance of providing immediate shelter, especially during the night when contracts are terminated.

• This is a HMAW1905-recognized event in the "Personal Enrichment & Community Service" category under the "Self-directed Experience" of HMAW1905: Behavioral Foundations of University Education: Habits, Mindsets, and Wellness.
• To receive 1.0 hour, you must attend the event in full and miss no more than 10 mins.
• The talk will be recorded and photos will be taken during the talk. By attending or participating in this event, you are giving your consent to be photographed and video recorded and you are waiving any and all claims regarding the use of your image by the University.