HONG KONG – The road to the 2026 Miss Hong Kong pageant took an emotional turn this week as 12 finalists faced challenges ranging from hot springs yoga to river fishing, with former titleholder Mayanne Mak delivering heartfelt advice that left many in tears.
The pre-pageant special episode, aired Sunday night, followed the contestants on a retreat to Conghua, a scenic district in Guangdong Province often described as a “hidden paradise.” Under Mak’s guidance, the women immersed themselves in tri-colored hot springs, answered questions while practicing yoga, and fished in mountain streams—all designed to reveal their authentic personalities and foster camaraderie.
After a series of physical and mental challenges, three contestants emerged as standout performers: No. 6 Jasmine Lu, No. 8 Deng Kuangmin, and No. 12 Caris Tang. Mak publicly praised both Deng and Tang for their efforts. But the night’s most moving moments came during a surprise segment in which Mak presented each finalist with a personalized “warm reminder” note.
Scarlett Li, a frontrunner since her early audition, received particular attention. Mak advised her to seek balance amid the pressures of being a media favorite.
“I know Scarlett has been under a lot of media scrutiny and online discussion, but that is also a dangerous zone,” Mak said. “Every year I warn contestants to beware of falling from the top. I hope Scarlett learns to find equilibrium.”
Li wept openly as Mak acknowledged the weight of her position.
For Jasmine Lu, the youngest contestant at age 20, Mak offered a different message: “Just be yourself.” Referring to Lu affectionately as “Baby,” Mak encouraged her to embrace her youth.
“I call her Baby because I think she should act her age—use cute expressions, say what comes to mind,” Mak said. “At 20, you have the right to make mistakes, to say the wrong thing. You don’t need to pretend to be mature. Just be the baby, and we will see your charm.”
Lu, usually cheerful, broke down in tears.
Mak ended the segment with tears in her own eyes, reflecting on her 15-year career since winning the crown. “I hope you can all say proudly, wherever you go, ‘Hello, I am Mayanne Mak, I am Miss Hong Kong,’” she said. “I have never regretted this path. This stage has given me so much, and I want to tell everyone that Miss HK can take many different roads. But you must believe in yourself. The road is yours to walk.”
Broader context and implications
The Miss Hong Kong pageant, broadcast live on August 30, remains one of the city’s most-watched annual events, drawing millions of viewers. Organizers have increasingly focused on “sisterhood” and personal growth narratives to modernize the competition and attract younger audiences. Mak’s mentoring segment, which went viral on social media, illustrates a shift toward emotional authenticity over traditional glamour.
Analysts say such human-centered storytelling helps the pageant stay relevant in a market increasingly driven by social media engagement and relatability. By showcasing real emotions—like Lu’s tears and Li’s vulnerability—the show connects with viewers beyond superficial beauty standards.
The final competition will feature the same 12 contestants, who will be judged on poise, intelligence, and community impact. For now, the journey to the crown has become as compelling as the crowning itself.
Related reading: Miss Hong Kong 2026: Meet the finalists | Pageant shifts focus to mental health and empowerment
