On the eve of Mother's Day, YWCA organised a film screening of “Montages of a Modern Motherhood” followed by a sharing session featured director Oliver Chan, lead actress Hedwig Tam, and lead actor Siuyea Lo. They explored the challenges faced by new mothers, division of parental roles, women's empowerment, community support, etc.

Over 100 volunteers, service users and staff of the Association joined the event, and many were moved by the story, which portrayed Suk-jing, a new mother grappling with parenting stress, her husband's inactiveness in helping, conflicts with parents-in-laws, sleep deficiency, postpartum bodily changes, and unemployment. Her relentless pursuit of being a "perfect mother" led to her emotional collapse and loss of identity.

Film director Oliver Chan believed that Hong Kong filming industry is predominantly male-centric, with few movies focusing on female themes. “Montages of a Modern Motherhood” breaks away from the traditional portrayal of the great mother prototype, instead showcasing the vulnerabilities of a new mother, making the maternal role realistic. She also mentioned the hope for women’s empowerment and greater respect for women's choices. Identify the needs of women, and show love, care and support are important.

Actress Hedwig Tam commented that expectations from the society often burden mothers. Apart from loving their children, mothers need to practise self-care too. Pursuing careers and dreams beyond social labeling should also be embraced. She suggested that couples should have thorough plan on parenting before having children. Actor Siuyea Lo stated that family roles need not be predefined by gender stereotypes. Mothers need not abandon their careers, and fathers can also be stay-at-home dads. He encouraged parents to cherish the precious time of raising children, noting that the process can be both exhausting and rewarding.

As a women organisation, YWCA stands with women through challenges in different stages of life, offering services including career development training, family role assistance, and emotional support. For support, companionship or professional assistance, feel free to contact us.

• Women’s service: supporting women facing marital adverisity, legal consultations, breast health education, gender awareness education, etc
• Children and family service: professional counseling, prenatal and postnatal care services, childcare services, etc
• Yo Life Club: career development programmes for young mothers