Activities & Programmes

Joanna Bowers is a Director, Producer and Screenwriter based in Hong Kong. She is focused on telling inspiring, international stories featuring ethnically diverse casts including strong women and unique perspectives with through her production company Cheeky Monkey Productions. Originally from the UK, after earning her degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Leeds, Joanna began her career working in television commercial production in Los Angeles. She worked her way up in the film and television industry with roles including content development for Warner Music Group, and as a casting director for independent films and digital television content for the Publicis Advertising Group. She began directing in 2009 filming throughout Asia for commercial and documentary clients including brands such as Cathay Pacific, HSBC and The North Face. Joanna is currently also the Head of Film for Asia at Brunswick Creative.

Ms. Ronna CHAO is Chairperson of Novetex Textiles Limited, a textile industry market leader with operations across Hong Kong, China, and Asia.  Since joining the family-run business in 2010, she has spearheaded initiatives that challenge and improve industry standards and practices, including The Billie System, an innovative upcycling process that endeavors to lessen environmental impact.

As the CEO of Novel Investment Partners Limited and a Director of Novelpark Investments Limited, Ms. Chao’s responsibilities cover investment and portfolio management, and property redevelopment.  Prior to joining the Novel Group, she began her career in New York first as a Mergers & Acquisitions financial analyst at Goldman Sachs, and then as an associate in the Licensing Department of the lifestyle and apparel company Tommy Hilfiger Corporation.