As part of our International Women’s Day campaign focusing on inspiring inclusion, we had the privilege to interview Grace Lam, a prominent figure in the fashion industry and a passionate advocate for women’s health, particularly focusing on menopause. Grace Lam, known for her roles as Fashion Director, Creative Consultant, and Founding Senior Fashion Editor at VOGUE China, Grace sheds light on her advocacy journey and her aspirations for reshaping perceptions around menopause.
- What inspired your advocacy for women's health and focus on menopause?
I wanted to talk about my perimenopausal journey right from the start, because I want to open that conversation and to let women know that it's okay to talk about it. Also to combat the stigma and misunderstanding about perimenopausal women, because it's a very natural phase that every single woman is going to have to go through, whether we like it or not. Also to educate the younger generation, including men and women and young girls and boys and everyone, to be an ally so they can support us and understand what we go through every single day, which is very tough.
- Could you share some resources or tips that have been helpful to others in managing menopause symptoms?
I find that when I go to bed at exactly the same time, it really helps every night and I wake up around the same time in the morning, and then I'll go outside to go for a walk, or even just to go to the garden and get some sunlight and wake up my Circadian rhythm and have some sunlight in my eyes, that really helps. By the time it gets to nighttime, then I am ready to sleep. Cut down on alcohol and sugar really helps too. And also, to walk. I walk every day, almost every day. I'm trying to walk at least 20 to up to 45 minutes. If I have the time, it helps me a lot, and I'll listen to my favorite podcast and do stretching and exercise, trying to exercise at least five times a week, whether it's 5 minutes or 20 minutes or half an hour or more. Forgive yourself and not be so harsh on yourself when you haven't done what you're supposed to do. On Instagram, there are many good resources and good information out there.
- How can we foster a more inclusive environment for women and girls, particularly around the menopause?
I think it's important to be open and talk about perimenopause and menopause. I'm quite an open person, so I tell people straight away, even though I just meet them, to tell them that, you know, in case I have a brain fog moment because I'm going through perimenopause, it's interesting to watch people's reaction. Most of the time, they’re a little bit taken back. But I want to create an environment that is okay to talk about this topic.
- As a speaker at Silver Sirens, what change do you hope to inspire in views on ageing and the menopause, especially in Perth?
I want the people who come to this event, which is mostly women, because it's a women's only event. I want them to embrace ageing as a positive way of looking at how we grow, and not to be afraid to do things that they've been wanting to do, like myself.
- What future projects are you excited about for supporting women's health and showcasing female talent?
I am hoping to get into the film industry, at some point. I want to make a TV series about, uh, a perimenopausal woman who is absolutely fabulous and very fashionable. And I want to change the traditional way of seeing menopausal women and the perception of traditional menopausal women's image.
Grace Lam's dedication to reshaping perceptions and advocating for women's health is truly inspiring. Her efforts pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive society for women of all ages.
Grace Lam will be joining as one of the guest speakers for Redefining Ageing Event hosted by Silver Sirens, which will be held in Perth on Saturday, March 23, 2024. As a sponsor of this event, we are proud to support initiatives that promote inclusivity and empower women to redefine ageing on their own terms.
Date: March 23, 2024, Saturday
Time: 09:00am- 1:00pm (AWST)
Location: Historic Ballroom, Pagoda Resort & Spa, 112 Melville Parade, Como WA 6152, Australia
Don't miss out on this opportunity to join Faith Agugu, Grace Lam and Silver Sirens as they inspire inclusion and empower women in Perth. Take this opportunity to join like-minded women in a gathering that is a brave space in which to explore the riches, superpowers, and challenges that come with ageing.
Register Now to Reserve Your Spot Now!
Grace Lam
Instagram: @gracelamstyle
Credit Portrait by: Jason Capobianco
Instagram: @jasoncapobiancoPhotography
