Larissa Fong
 

Larissa’s dedication to social impact began in her early 20s, working for children with SEN in Hong Kong. Witnessing the daily struggles and fierce resilience of these families, what started as a young professional's career quickly solidified into a lifelong vocation. She later transitioned to a major philanthropy, orchestrating large-scale relief projects for crisis-hit children and families both locally and internationally.

In 2022, Larissa’s life took a sudden, life-threatening turn. While pregnant, she suffered a massive stroke caused by a brain Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) — a rare, asymptomatic congenital condition. What followed was a harrowing medical battle: an emergency C-section coupled with complex, high-risk open-brain surgery.

Surviving was only the first step. Facing severe neurological aftereffects, Larissa had to relearn how to speak, move, and walk from scratch. As a mother of two and a stroke survivor, she refused to let adversity define her. Today, Larissa has transformed her personal trauma into a powerful catalyst for change. Her battle has not only deepened her empathy for those facing systemic adversity but has sharpened her resolve to lead. 

Larissa brings 15 years of experience in grant management, strategic communication, and corporate philanthropy across Hong Kong’s private and non-profit sectors. At the Children of Light Foundation, she leverages her fundraising and foundation governance background and lived experience as a survivor. She knows what it means to be in the dark, and she is dedicated to ensuring no child or family walks that path alone.

Partnered with CUHK, HK Children's Hospital, HK Christian Service, HK Family Welfare Society, Heep Hong Society, Yan Oi Tong, Children Cancer Foundation, Christian Action, Kwun Tong Methodist Social Service, Happy Tree, Cornerstone, Culture Regeneration Research Society, Desert Rose, and more.