Archive for month: March, 2026

Sydney, 4 March 2026 — Over 50 members, friends, VIP guests and media representatives gathered on the evening of 3 March at Diamond Territory in Sydney’s Chinatown as Way In Network celebrated the Lunar Lantern Festival and the upcoming International Women’s Day with a Women Empowerment Series seminar and festive dinner.

Distinguished guests included Mrs Hong Zhang, Counsellor of the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Sydney; Ms Mingzi Zhang, Consul; Councillor Nancy Liu of Georges River Council; The Hon. Helen Sham-Ho, former Deputy President of the NSW Legislative Council; together with representatives from Sydney’s Chinese community and business sector.

President’s Welcome

Way In Network President Ms Jessie Xiao delivered the welcome address, expressing appreciation to distinguished guests, members and supporters for taking time during the busy Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival period to attend the celebration.

She noted that Way In Network has long been committed to serving the community through diverse initiatives and charitable programs. The organisation’s achievements, she emphasised, are the result of unity, mutual support among members and the strong encouragement of the wider community. As an influential community organisation, Way In continues to promote meaningful charitable causes while fostering inclusiveness and positive social impact.

A Longstanding Commitment to Women’s Empowerment

The celebration formed part of Way In Network’s long-running Women Empowerment Series, a cornerstone initiative dedicated to strengthening women’s legal awareness, financial literacy, leadership development and community participation.

Earlier in the afternoon, a themed seminar titled “Her Rights. Her Wealth. Her Future.” was held as part of the Series.

Ms Shelly Sun, Founder and Principal Solicitor of Sunsolis Legal, delivered a keynote presentation titled “Beyond Bruises: Recognising Coercive Control in Modern Domestic Violence.” Drawing on her professional experience leading a multidisciplinary legal practice serving the multicultural community, Ms Sun examined the evolving legal framework in New South Wales, where coercive control has recently been criminalised. She highlighted early warning signs of non-physical abuse, the vulnerabilities faced by migrant and multicultural women, and the legal protections and support pathways available.

Ms Zihan (Shelley) Wang, Associate Solicitor at Morabito Legal and mediator member of the International Commercial Mediation Center for BRI, presented “Estate Planning and Trust Succession – What You Need to Know.” Her session emphasised the importance of careful structuring of wills and trust arrangements to safeguard family succession and minimise future disputes.

The seminar enriched attendees’ professional knowledge and reaffirmed Way In Network’s ongoing commitment to empowering women through practical, high-quality expertise.

Festive Greetings and Community Support

During the evening program, brief remarks were delivered by distinguished guests.

Mrs Hong Zhang, Counsellor of the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Sydney, conveyed festive greetings on the occasion of the Lantern Festival and the upcoming International Women’s Day. She acknowledged the important role of women in social development and highlighted the significance of cultural heritage and community engagement in strengthening connections between China and Australia.

Councillor Nancy Liu of Georges River Council shared her reflections as both an elected representative and a member of Way In Network. She commended the organisation’s longstanding contributions to the community and expressed continued support for initiatives that promote women’s empowerment and multicultural inclusion.

Their remarks underscored the broader recognition of Way In Network’s positive impact within both diplomatic and local government spheres.

A Joyful Lantern Festival Celebration

The evening dinner reflected both the warmth of the Lantern Festival and the spirit of unity within the community.

Many members attended dressed in elegant traditional Chinese attire, adding colour and cultural vibrancy to the celebration. Each guest was presented with a festive lantern, symbolising light, hope and good fortune for the year ahead.

Way In Network members performed the beloved classic “The Moon Represents My Heart,” creating a nostalgic and heartfelt atmosphere. A captivating Huangmei Opera performance drew enthusiastic applause, celebrating the richness of traditional Chinese arts.

The program also featured traditional lantern riddle games that encouraged lively participation, as well as a generous lucky draw with attractive prizes, bringing excitement and joyful anticipation throughout the evening.

Vice President Ms Daisy Lam introduced the upcoming 34th Anniversary Charity Ball to be held on 16 May, a major biennial fundraising event expected to welcome approximately 400 guests. Proceeds from the gala will be dedicated entirely to charitable causes, and the broader community was warmly invited to participate.

The event was chaired by Ms Rossana Ng, who ensured the smooth running of both the seminar and evening program. At the conclusion of the celebration, Ms Ng delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing sincere appreciation to the distinguished guests, speakers, members, supporters and media representatives whose presence contributed to the success of the event.

As the evening drew to a close, attendees departed with lanterns in hand, gifts and prizes to take home, and hearts full of warmth — truly returning home with abundance, both in festive joy and renewed community connection.

The celebration not only marked the Lantern Festival and International Women’s Day, but also reaffirmed Way In Network’s enduring mission: to empower women, strengthen multicultural understanding and build a more inclusive and supportive community for generations to come.