To celebrate East and Southeast Asian Heritage Month, during September, we are sharing the familial journeys of people in our diocesan worshipping communities.
Here, Vanessa Li, member of the Church of England Nominations and Remuneration Committee, and former employee of Leicester Cathedral, tells her story…
Hello everyone! My name is Vanessa, and I am originally from Hong Kong. I have been living in England for over four years now.
Roots: I grew up in Hong Kong and spent most of my life there before moving to England. I have always loved my homeland for its diversity, vibrancy, and rich culture. As a former British colony, it uniquely blends British and Western influences with Asian traditions.
In terms of my faith journey, I turned to God when I was 16, but I didn't begin attending church regularly until about nine years later - when my late father was diagnosed with a terminal illness, which ultimately led him to God. During his two-year battle, my father underwent a remarkable transformation. He changed from a gloomy, withdrawn man into someone filled with hope, strength, and life. Witnessing this transformation - something only God’s almighty hand could bring about - deeply impacted our family. Not long after, both my mother and sister also came to faith.
Although my beloved father eventually lost the battle, his unwavering faith until his final breath left a lasting mark on our hearts. My own faith gradually deepened over time. Yet, I must admit - with some shame - that I became sidetracked by my desire to build a career and enjoy life’s pleasures. It wasn’t until I relocated to England that my bond with God truly became unbreakable.
Wings: I moved to England in June 2021 with my mother, following the recent changes in Hong Kong that led to the introduction of the British National (Overseas) visa for Hongkongers in early 2021. It was a move neither of us had ever imagined - especially for my mother, who had spent her entire life in Hong Kong. This relocation was unlike any of my previous overseas experiences. This time, I was bringing along my mother, now in her 70s, who doesn’t speak English. We were leaving behind our beloved homeland, one whose core identity, we felt, had disappeared.
By God’s grace, we gradually began to build new lives here in what has become our new home - with a new church, a new place to live, a new neighbourhood, and new friendships. Over the following two years, I explored the next chapter of my life, living what you might call a “slasher” life: freelance translator & copywriter/craft market organiser/community engagement worker. I also had the privilege of working for a short time at the Cathedral.
Each of these experiences was new to me. I truly believe it was God’s hand at work, connecting the dots in my life - transforming my passion for social justice into small, meaningful actions: seeds of human connection that, in His time, may flourish into lasting societal change.
Now, more than four years on, looking back, there have been moments of mist, thunderstorm, and tears. But there has also been even more grace, provision, peace, and joy. In every season of life, God has remained my unwavering anchor. May all glory be to God.
