Wealth Planning and Trust Management – continuity in times of change

Brent York, Global Head of Trust and Fiduciary Services, and Ann Ling, Team Head of Wealth Planning (Hong Kong, Philippines and International Market), outline why HSBC Global Private Banking is the ideal choice for ultra-high net worth (UHNW) families looking to address global wealth planning issues and transgenerational prosperity.

Wealth famously opens doors, extends options and allows you to make sure your family and loved ones are secure and taken care of in every eventuality. With great wealth, though, comes great responsibility. This has seen affluent individuals globally become ever more aware that not only do they have to successfully steward the wealth currently entrusted to them, but also have to put in place a succession plan to ensure the seamless transfer of a family’s wealth to the next generation.

One of the challenges that preoccupies many of today’s UHNW families is managing their wealth on a multi-territory, cross-border basis. Whether you decide to change your country of residence, look to work in a new territory or simply shift your asset base to enjoy the preferential financial regimes offered by different jurisdictions, it is never a simple matter. Any such change inevitably entails dealing with complex legal, tax and regulatory issues, and many other considerations. HSBC Global Private Banking has unparalleled experience when it comes to handling such issues and advise clients on the implications of various choices for tax and estate efficiency.

Expanding on the emerging trends in the cross-border wealth management sector, Brent York says: “The changing nature of many family businesses, as well as the global scope of investments, has obliged almost every UHNW family to look at things from a global perspective.

“As a consequence, cross-border planning is now at the heart of wealth planning strategy for most UHNW families, whether with regard to family members’ relocation, overseas business interests or investment.”

Family Wealth and Forward Planning

Given its 157 years of heritage in Asia, HSBC is aware of the vital role family businesses play in creating wealth and the challenge of finding the right strategy to solidify the foundations of the family business and support the longevity of family wealth. While it could be that ownership and control of any such business are transferred to the next generation, it is equally possible that the company is positioned for acquisition or merger.

Outlining how they can assist with an effective transition strategy, York says: “Our wealth planning advisers and family governance teams explore and evaluate all possible options, factoring in any preferences relating to the holding or disposal of particular assets and the need to sustain any philanthropic commitments. We also recommend a degree of flexibility, allowing any changes in circumstance or altered priorities to be swiftly incorporated.”

One thing they always look to stress is the primacy of effective communication between all family members and other stakeholders, particularly with regard to succession planning.

Expanding on how this should be conducted, Ann Ling says “Poor communication not only represents a risk to the success of the family business, it also endangers family relationships. Any transition process, regardless of whether it relates to a business exit or business succession, should include the generations and family branches that might be affected by the plan. It’s important to be able to talk openly and honestly. There can, however, be a particular challenge when addressing issues of a highly emotional nature. This is why families sometimes need to involve third-party professionals to facilitate the conversation. Our team can help families in the communication phase and build the right structure, we can also help to develop a strong governance system that better aligns with family values and goals.”

Flexible Solutions for Fluid Situations

Over recent years, the very concept of “family” has been re-evaluated and rethought, and HSBC Global Private Banking is committed to keeping its staff and services aligned with these changing norms. Diving deeper into the specifics, York says, “Our estate and wealth planning solutions, can be specifically tailored to the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. We also have formulated and implemented strategies geared to ensuring those with special needs or disabilities enjoy a high standard of care and support long after their closest family members have passed on.”

Citing examples of providing a particular benefit, Ling says: “Children of same-sex marriages may only be biologically related to one parent, so their future prosperity may need to be outlined as part of a trust agreement. This can guarantee that they are always well cared for no matter how much their circumstances may change.”

Future-Facing and Tradition-Minded

HSBC Global Private Banking has enhanced its traditional face-to-face services with a new range of digital options. Recognising the importance of a hybrid service model, York maintains that, over the next 10 years, digital channels will come to play a significant role in sustaining long-term client relationships, while facilitating prompt and easily accessible service regardless of geographical location.

Providing an update on the bank’s most recent digital advances, he says: “We’ve recently upgraded our core trust administration platform, allowing us to cut the time taken to action distributions by some 50%. We’ve also introduced a secure communication platform that allows clients to communicate and send documents to their Trust Relationship Managers using WeChat and WhatsApp. Above all, though, while we are committed to being future-facing, we will also always continue to offer our traditionally high-quality range of in-person services.”

With over 75 years of working with some of the world’s wealthiest families at its 41 sites globally, HSBC Global Private Banking is at a forefront of trust management and succession planning.

The information contained in this article has not been reviewed in light of your individual circumstances and is for information purposes only. It does not purport to provide legal, taxation or other advice and should not be taken as such. No client or other reader should act or refrain from acting on the basis of the content of this article without seeking specific professional advice.

Issued by The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited and HSBC Trustee (Hong Kong) Limited.

Indra Banga on being one of Hong Kong’s foremost philanthropists

Since the mid 80s, Indra Banga has taken over many different roles such as the Director of the Caravel Foundation, as a light of the Banga’s home and as an Indian woman in Hong Kong.

What made you decide to move to Hong Kong?
My husband and I were working in London in 1984, the year the Sino-British Joint Declaration was signed. The company my husband worked for saw a lot of opportunities as likely to emerge in China and, as a result, he was asked to move to Hong Kong. We originally planned to stay for three years but, 38 years later, we’re still here. And this is very much our home now.

What has stayed with you from your childhood back in India?
My childhood was very structured and disciplined, because my parents were in the army. We were taught to always be diligent and honest and that’s something I have tried to pass on to my own children. That’s not to say it wasn’t fun; I had no responsibilities back then after all. By contrast, now I am responsible for a huge number of people through the many charities I am involved in.

How has the Indian community reacted to the decision of some to exit Hong Kong over recent years?
The majority of the Indian people identify as Hong Kongers. We feel that, unless there’s ever some kind of a move to push us out of the city, then we are here to stay. When people ask what my plan B is, I always say “Plan B is Hong Kong, Plan C is Hong Kong…”

What was it like being a new arrival in Hong Kong back then?
I first came to Hong Kong in 1985 and didn’t speak the language. It was a very open society, though, and I didn’t find things too difficult. I never really felt that I needed to be western or Chinese. I felt I could just be myself.

That all changed a bit in 2003, however, the year of the SARS outbreak. While a lot of foreigners sent their wives and children back home, many Indians stayed put. That was when the locals started to see us as one of them, largely because we didn’t abandon them.

Now, in the case of my children, I don’t see them as Punjabi, or Chinese, but rather as global children and global citizens who can easily fit in wherever they are. At the end of the day, I think it’s important for everyone to be themselves without any fear of judgement, discrimination or intimidation.

What are your favourite places in Hong Kong?
Aside from the famous seafood restaurants and country parks, my new favourite place is my daughter Dana’s house, simply because my grandchildren are there.

“I don’t see my children as Punjabi, or Chinese, but rather as global citizens who can fit in anywhere. It’s important for everyone to live without the fear of judgemement and intimidation.”

Do you consider yourself and your husband as a power couple?
While I don’t think we’re a power couple, I do think we are a great team. In fact, behind every successful person, there is a team as I don’t think anybody can succeed on their own. Making it as an entrepreneur requires three things – hard work, knowledge and luck. If you have the other two, but don’t have luck, you won’t get anywhere. If you have a lot of support, though, luck becomes less of a factor, perhaps because having the backing of the right people may be all the luck you need.

You’ve billed one of your recent projects – the revival of the Gurudwara Khalsa Diwan Sikh temple – as a gift to Hong Kong’s Indian community. What inspired this particular initiative?
The Sikh community in Hong Kong is very small but very vibrant. The present Gurudwara dates back to 1901 and, in 2013, we started to see cracks in the building. At the time, we felt that in order to maintain our identity and honour our heritage, we had to build a new Gurudwara. Given there are only 15,000 Sikhs in Hong Kong, it was difficult to raise the money required. As a result, our focus is now on ensuring our current temple is still standing in a 100 years’ time.

Is your charitable work exclusively focused on the Indian community?
While there is a lot of need within the Indian community, we don’t restrict our activities to benefiting specific ethnic minorities. We have, for instance, established endowments at the three US universities our children attended – Princeton, Dartmouth and Duke. These are open to any gifted student who lacks the financial resources to study at one of these institutions, whether they are from India, Hong Kong or China. We do not make distinctions and we are looking to support young people from all walks of life.

In addition to your other commitments, you’ve also found time to be the President of the Hong Kong Indian Women’s Club (HKIWC) for some 10 years now. How has that particular institution evolved?
From the day it was founded in 1957, the HKIWC has always been dedicated to helping the underprivileged and the marginalised, a sign that many Indian women in Hong Kong have long prioritised charitable initiatives.

As the years have gone by, it has become a much more open and vocal body, while its focus has broadened beyond helping the Indian community and into meeting the needs of the local population in general. Throughout the last three years, for instance, we partnered with various organisations to help provide Covid relief by preparing 300 meals a day for those in need. While it’s never been a stay-at-home organisation, its members are now out and about more than ever as they take a lead across a wide range of philanthropic endeavours.

“Finding success requires hard work, knowledge and luck. Without luck, you won’t get anywhere. If you have a lot of support, luck becomes less of a factor.”

You’re particularly well known for your work with the Caravel Foundation. What do you see as its primary focus?
The Caravel Foundation was set up to help the underprivileged get better access to education and healthcare. Our hope is that, over time, those who benefit from our scholarship programme will form a distinct group, a kind of alumni association. We would welcome such individuals to intern or work with us and believe they would also be able to support one another in a variety of different ways.

Another one of our core activities sees us working very closely with Integrated Brilliant Education. Our backing helps them provide Cantonese classes to underprivileged Non-Chinese Speaking children throughout Hong Kong. At present, we are working with about 300 students, many of whom we have provided with a laptop or an iPad to help build up their technological skills. Next year we are planning to open a kindergarten, which will provide an immersive Cantonese experience for children as young as three.

You recently received an honorary fellowship from the City University of Hong Kong. How did that come about?
Well, we’ve long admired the way they operate. Beyond educating students, they also use innovative technology to introduce new concepts and ideas to the general public. This led to us working with them to launch the Indra and Harry Banga Gallery, a space dedicated to harnessing the power of technology to showcase art. To date, our biggest exhibition focused on the works of Leonardo da Vinci, with interactive technology.

Amid all the changes you have witnessed, what have been the constants in your life?
My friends and family. I value friendship beyond anything and I can proudly say that I still have many of the same friends I had 40 years ago. While I have also made a lot of new friends, my old friends have always been there. It’s the same with my family. Together, they have been my ever-present support system, unwaveringly constant and enduringly strong.

Thank you.

(Interview by: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma
Videographer: Jackie Chan Hair and Make Up: Heti Tsang)

Sam Lin on forsaking the high-tech world in favour of the lure of luxury auctioneering

Sam Lin of Madison Auction remains certain in uncertain times, seeing the glass (of wine) half-full. Fuelling his business mind with a sip of liquor and a puff of cigar, he hammers life’s odds – one bid at a time.

How did your career path take you into your role as Chief Executive of Madison Auction?
Back in the mid-90s, I developed my own system integration and service offerings, which were ultimately listed on both the Singapore and Hong Kong exchange markets. Asia Online, which I co-founded, was actually Hong Kong’s second Internet Service Provider. I then refocused my career on the luxury consumables sector, a move that was more in line with my family’s 30-year-old business with its focus on wine and spirits. This saw me integrate investment-grade cigars, wine and whiskey into the existing operation. As I had interned for some small auction houses in the UK, it was then a natural progression for me to also become an auctioneer for Madison Auction.

“The brand name was acquired from my partner’s existing business and we both agreed to persist with it.To my mind, good branding is essential for the success of any business”

What do you see as Madison Auction’s primary focus?
When we started, it was really about wine. More recently, though, we signed an exclusive deal with Pacific Cigar, the Asia-Pacific company behind the renowned Habanos Cuban cigar. In all, we have been auctioning investment-grade cigars for some six months now and it is gradually starting to take off for us. Looking back, there came a point where I had to choose between being a high-tech vendor or working in the luxury consumable sector, something I am passionate about. I chose the latter and that’s how the launch of Madison Wine came about in 2011. The brand was acquired from my partner’s existing business and we both agreed to persist with it thanks to its heritage. To my mind, good branding is essential for the success of any business.

Of late, have you seen any shift away from an interest in luxury auction items, with people looking to focus on more grounded essentials?
It really depends on where people are in their lives. As the world economy has been somewhat derailed over the past three years, some have, indeed, looked to re-focus on alternative investment opportunities. Fortunately for us, we also offer those kinds of opportunities. At the end of the day, though, any bid boils down to Economics 101 – the supply and demand chain. A lot of people have looked to alternative investment classes largely because the equity market has not been performing well. As a consequence, people have become more interested in investing in fine art wine or spirits hoping that they will appreciate in value. Even if they don’t, people know they will still be able to enjoy them afterwards for what they are. For me and for most people, happiness is always the ultimate priority.

To date, what has been the most expensive lot you have ever sold?
Well, we sold one lot of wine for more than HK$2 million and we sold a vintage cigar for about half that. In pre-pandemic times, when the world was still a lot more normal, we’d do three or four live online selling events every year and that was a really good business. But a lot of things have changed since the pandemic happened. Now, though, if I was asked to advise which category was likely to offer the most lucrative investment opportunity, I’d have to say whiskey. Over the past decade, it has given sustained returns of about 8% to 12% per annum.

Is it fair to say that auctions are solely reserved for the rich and famous?
Absolutely not. Especially for our category. We see a lot of participants from all walks of life. Of course, by default, auction houses have an affinity with the rich and famous, but as they have such smart purchase channels, there are also a lot of middle-ranking professionals who take an interest.

Today, I still believe that if you want to be successful, you need to immerse yourself in your chosen industry, which is something i share with my two children.

For you, what constitutes a good day at work and what constitutes a bad one?
As an integral part of the auction business, we entertain a lot of people at night, so it is definitely not a nine-to-five job. A good day at work inevitably involves a glass of wine or whisky and a cigar. A truly bad day at work, however, is one I have yet to really experience, partly because I always ensure I have lots of positive energy before I step into my office. I always tell myself to anticipate challenges, such as dealing with customs paperwork. It’s a good thing and I’m lucky to have such supportive and optimistic team with me. We all make each other’s job easier in a way. It’s good to also note that, people are people. We all make mistakes. To my mind, you have to deal with everything with a smile. As a manager, there’s no point in yelling at your staff. Instead, you have to ensure you have the right kind of communication, which inevitably requires a humanistic approach.

In terms of success, who do you admire and who inspires you?
Both Bill Gates and Steve Jobs have been inspirations to me. I grew up unable to afford a computer, while these two were emerging as IT pioneers. When I was 19, I applied to a number of tech companies, but no one wanted to hire me and I was advised to go back to school. Jobs and Gates were both college dropouts too, so maybe I can follow in their footsteps. When I worked in the hospitality sector, I had to teach myself every step of the way. Today, I still believe that if you want to be successful in your chosen industry, then you need to immerse yourself in it. I have two children of my own now, both in their twenties, and I wouldn’t, however, advise them to follow my example. Things are more complicated now. While I share my experience with them, I don’t recommend them to take the same approach. I believe in their own strength and talents. This is the best thing I can do as a parent.

How important has being based in Hong Kong been to your success would you say?
Believe it or not, I find great joy in being out and about in the further reaches of Hong Kong. It is a real contrast and welcome balance from being in the bustling centre of the city where I spend so much of my time. Aside from driving around the mountains and hanging out in country clubs, I also enjoy tram rides. Contrary to what many others might say, I find these more rural areas clear my mind even after just a few minutes. After a short break, I can bounce back to business with renewed energy. It always gives me a sense of belongingness to the city. It is truly the perfect short sweet escape from the daily Hong Kong busy work and grind life. I may be in and out of the city from time to time, but I will always come back to it. I find my home city has a very positive and unique energy.
Thank you.

(Interview by: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma
Videographer: Kes Lei Venue: Club K7)

Women’s Resilience: As tough as natural diamond

In times of challenges, Female Entrepreneurs Worldwide (FEW), together with Gafencu and De Beers, worked together to interview several influential women who can inspire us to shine bright, no matter how dark the shadows sometimes seem. We believe that the strength of a woman’s spirit is as resilient as that of a natural diamond itself, born through hard work and under intense pressure.

Alison Chan El Azar
HK Influencer

Alison didn’t always know what she wanted in life, but she knows that she can do something big, something important. She is always working to be a better version of herself – just like a natural diamond – when it’s polished and incorporated into a piece of jewellery, it will transform into a truly one-of-a-kind piece.

Read more here.

Women's Resilience As tough as natural diamond gafencu total circle victoria tang-owen Thirty30 creative — Victoria Tang-Owen wears De Beers Jewellers’ Enchanted Lotus High Jewellery Collection

Victoria Tang-Owen
Founder of Thirty30 Creative & Victoria Tang Studio

Victoria understands that “starting a business is tough, especially being a women-owned business. It takes courage and discipline.” I like the touch and feel of rough diamonds, understated yet powerful. Just like in life, some things do not have to be polished or perfect.

Read more here.

Women's Resilience As tough as natural diamond gafencu total circle ruth chao RCS — Ruth Chao wears De Beers Jewellers’ Ellesmere Treasure High Jewellery Collection

Ruth Chao
Founder of RCS

“We are what we think. We become what we do. Creating for businesses with positive impact and meaningful causes is what fuels my fire of creativity.” The strength of Ruth is like the stunning diamond jewellery she is wearing – rare, finite, and extremely difficult to find.”

Read more here.

Women's Resilience As tough as natural diamond gafencu total circle diana chou — Diana Chou wears De Beers Jewellers’ Portraits of Nature High Jewellery Collection

Diana Chou
Chairman of Dragon General Aviation Group (DGA)

Diana Chou, the founder and Chairman of Dragon General Aviation Group, (DGA), has over time been a strong leader and mentor for up and coming female entrepreneurs. “When you see a natural diamond, you don’t know its brilliance until you have to shape it, polish it, before it will shine. This is just like a woman going through life, and they need to be polished before they can shine”.

Read more here.

Rebecca Chung on female empowerment and self-love

From music teacher to beauty maven, High Society Skin Clinic’s Rebecca Chung turns treatment rooms into safe havens

What makes your beauty clinics stand out?

No matter at Princess Brows or High Society Skin Clinic, we show our love and support to our clients. We don’t practise hard sell like many other establishments in Hong Kong. This is also based on my own experience: hard selling is so common place at beauty clinics in the city that quite often clients are pushed to buy treatments they don’t need.

Instead, we encourage clients to open up to us and talk about their problems to relieve themselves of that emotional burden. In each treatment room, we have a mirror where we place inspirational quotes and positive affirmations to inspire and remind our clients of their own beauty. Thus, they can walk out feeling happy and confident in their own skin and body. We realise that our clients are so stressed from their day-to-day life that they tend to forget to take care of themselves. We want to create a safe, stress-free space of relaxation and joy.

Earrings, bracelets and rings by Royal Enterprises
Inez asymmetric ruched satin midi dress by A.L.C., courtesy of Net-A-Porter
Heels by Mach & Mach

Could you share your perspective on today’s beauty trends in Hong Kong?

K-Pop and K-Beauty are rapidly growing in popularity, and we have noticed a demand for more V-shaped faces. At High Society Skin Clinic, we provide HIFU [high-intensity focused ultrasound] skin-tightening treatments to achieve this look.

Clients can see immediate results after one session, and zero downtime which is ideal for Hong Kongers as they are so busy and want to look good after one session! We also provide Emsculpt NEO [non-invasive body shaping] and Emtone [non-invasive cellulite reduction and skin tightening] for a more toned-looking body.

Any advice for a quick confidence boost?

Self-love is really important, especially in trying times such as the last two years of the Covid pandemic. People are stressed – from work and from everyday life. Many people suffer from chronic stress, anxiety and mental illness and may not be aware of it.

I encourage them to talk to their friends, to a professional, or spend some time at High Society Skin Clinic. Freely expressing yourself is cathartic and allows you to restore your confidence.

Earrings and ring by Royal Enterprises
Adelaide one-shoulder feather-trimmed crepe mini dress by 16Arlington, courtesy of Net-A-Porter
Belt bag by Chanel
Heels by Rene Caovilla

“I already have all my permanent makeup on, so basically, I don’t have to do makeup every day; I can just wake up and walk out like this”

Tell us more about Glowagen.

Glowagen is an edible wellness brand that I started in 2020 somewhat by chance. I had found manufacturers in Australia and Japan that made supplements that focus on health and wellness, which is something I advocate.

The brand has an array of products from NAD+ supplements [nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide for brain-cell health] to anti-ageing and collagen drinks. We also have supplements for breast health, especially for breastfeeding mothers, and skin whitening.

What’s your daily beauty and self-care regimen?

I already have all my permanent makeup on, so basically, I don’t have to do makeup every day; I can just wake up and walk out like this. On the rare occasions I do apply makeup, it is to attend an interview or event or go to dinner.

My daily skincare consists of a cleanser, serum, face cream and sunblock. I love Swiss products! My current favourites are my own formulations, the Rebecca Sylverster White Truffle Recovery Serum and the Vampire Magic Mask, as well as Cellcore and La Prairie products.

As for my self-care routine is going to High Society Skin Clinic and doing a session of NEO Emsculpt treatment. It burns fat and saves time, as it only lasts 30 minutes. To relax my mind, I like doing stretching and jogging. I also enjoy swimming with the family.

Earrings and ring by Royal Enterprises
Balmain tweed double-breasted blazer by Balmain
Lavera jumpsuit by Alice + Olivia
Heels by Rene Caovilla

What attracted you to medical tattooing?

The medical tattooing we do at Princess Brows is a means to empower women and help give them their confidence back. We provide a range of services from recreating areolas on women who underwent breast surgery and hair strokes on areas such as the eyebrows for people with alopecia, to covering up skin imperfections such as under-eye dark circles, stretch marks and vitiligo.

When I launched the brand a decade ago, I was doing semi-permanent eyebrow and eyeliner treatments. At the time, beauty practices were still a little old-fashioned. Traditional cosmetic tattooing was done with minimal safety and hygiene standards. It was quite common to see practitioners doing these tattoos with no gloves or sensitisation, and there were practically no professional beauty academies teaching proper ways of executing these treatments.

That did not sit right with me, so I looked for better pathways and decided to go abroad to learned more about microblading, cosmetic and medical tattooing. I discovered that these techniques can go beyond perfecting beauty and become a way to empower and restore confidence.

Then, noticing that most microblades used in cosmetic tattooing in Hong Kong were made in China and undergo minimal sterilisation, I started The House of PMU, a series of high-quality semi-permanent eyebrow, eyeliner and lipliner pigments made in Germany to ensure a high standard of safety and hygiene. We provide precision microblades to carry out safe, sanitary treatments responsibly. The best part is that our pigments come in a range of custom-made colours dedicated to the Asian market.

High Society Skin Clinic opened a new flagship branch this April. What’s next for you?

We have been lucky to be able to expand High Society Skin Clinic within the same building as our previous venue. We now take up an entire floor, affording a larger space and upgrading our technology, equipment and machines to give our clients a more comfortable experience and the best services.

We have been able to franchise G.E.L. Lashes [next-generation eyelash lifting] in more than seven countries worldwide. In the near future, we would like expand to retail and hopefully open more stores in popular shopping malls. We have also expanded our supplement brand, Glowagen, to Watson’s across the city and hope to move to China and beyond soon.

Earrings, necklace, bracelet, rings by Royal Enterprises
X Revolve bustier gown by For love & lemons
Heels by Alexander Wang

“We place inspirational quotes and positive affirmations [on the mirrors] to inspire and remind our clients of their own beauty”

Tell us about your childhood and how you realised your passion for beauty.

My childhood in Hong Kong was pretty average; I grew up just like any other local girl. I studied at local schools and learned how to play the piano. I started teaching music at the age of 15 and for more than 10 years I enjoyed it, but I also came to the point when I was ready for a change.

Beauty and fashion have always been passions of mine. I remember that I used to love playing with Barbie dolls, doing their makeup and getting them dressed. I started doing semi-permanent makeup treatments as a hobby, but never thought I could make it into a career until I was 30 and decided to pursue it seriously. Shifting my career path, I decided to create something of my own and launched Princess Brows in 2011.

At the time, Hong Kong didn’t have too many semi-permanent makeup practitioners, so I was keen to learn various techniques and styles of cosmetic and medical tattooing. Then, once Princess Brows was up and running, I realised that there are so many other avenues for creativity and innovation in the beauty industry. In 2018, I expanded my business with High Society Skin Clinic, where we offer body contouring and hair-removal treatments with the intention to foster empowerment and confidence in one’s own healthy, happy body.

Who is the person you look up to the most? Any personal heroes?

My husband! He takes care of me, my family and my business. We actually started this business together. Though he has a job of his own, he used his spare time to take care of the finances, and basically did the things I didn’t want to do! I am really lucky to have someone who gives me unconditional support and trust, and is able to take care of the family. He takes my son to school every day and cooks for me, too!

Finally, if you could pass down anything to your children, what would it be?

Definitely not money! The most important thing for me is that my children grow up kind and respectful of other people, no matter their background – that is the most fundamental value I hope to pass on to them.

My children are now four and 14 years old. They don’t know their goals yet, and I, myself, am still trying to figure out how to be the best parent I can be. But I am also blessed to be able to put them in the best schools and trust that the teachers are able to nurture those good values in them as well.

Thank you.

(Interview by: Roberliza Eugenio; Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan; Hair & make up artist: Angela Shum; Venue: High Society Skin Clinic – Central Branch)

Art veteran Simon Ma’s vision of creating harmony through art

Hong Kong-born, Shanghai based, art veteran Simon Ma shares his vision of creating harmony through art with his recent travelling Drago Cavallo Exhibition

From a young age, you painted under the guidance of Chinese master Fan Tzu Teng. How did that shape you?
I was lucky to have him inspire me, and not just in painting. He also inspired me to become a good person. We believed that whatever you paint first comes from your heart, then flows through your hands – manifesting how we think and how we look at the world.

“Harmonise” is a word he always reminded me of. To harmonise with nature and with people, regardless of their background, whether they are rich or poor. This way, you allow yourself to view the world from all angles, looking at everyone and every situation from the top down, left to right and from front to back as well. He was my master in matters of the mind, too – an extremely kind and an open person, he believed that we should do charity work, with a pure heart – that is what would help one be a good painter.

For a time, you had your own company in Shanghai, Ma Design. What propelled you to make the transition from architect and urban planner to artist?

I started painting when I was seven years old, and I played music when I was 13 years old. After that, I attended boarding school in the UK and then studied architecture and urban planning at University College of London.

It’s hard being an architect. I prefer being an artist because I don’t have to just work for the client. As an artist, I can actually create anything I like, without limitations or boundaries. I started sculpting and exhibiting my work to the public in various locations around the world. To me, this is the more interesting part of art and creation, it is much more meaningful to me [than architecture. I put them there like an architecture but in miniature forms.

You recently launched a large touring artistic installation, Drago Cavallo, in conjunction with the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Could you tell us more about this?

Winfried (Engelbrecht-Bresges), the CEO of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, called me and wanted me to come back to Hong Kong to do the Drago Cavallo – Travel Around HK exhibition as part of the SAR’s 25th anniversary.

We thought the city needed new energy, something to bring everyone in harmony. The mythical dragon horse (‘drago cavallo’ in Italian) is the spirit of China – one of the eight mythical beasts that symbolises inspiration; and I think people all over the world like horses.

I actually created these lovable Drago Cavallos during Covid-19 to give people hope and new energy. So, we brought back 10,000 Drago Cavallos and are planning on displaying a 25-metre-high Drago Cavallo next year.

I’m working very hard on this, trying to harmonise Hong Kong society – in different districts and also in schools, where students can paint Drago Cavallo and understand the spirit of the two animals (dragon and horse). The cool thing about this project is that it will harmonise society through art.

The Jockey Club has also been very supportive. We are also hosting a competition, and asking everyone to join the competition and try to set up one Drago Cavallo for each district.

“I prefer being an artist because you can actually create anything you like, with no limitations, no boundaries. This is much more meaningful to me [than architecture]”

You have a strong affinity with horses. Could you share with us why that is?
The horse is the most beautiful animal. They are energetic, international and always moving forward. They never complain though they can have a temper, too; when they want to, they just go. I see myself as somewhat of a horse whisperer. I go around the world, to places like Mongolia, to see horses. And when I find them, they are like my friends. You have to build a friendship with horses before you can paint them. I paint from inside them; I’m painting their vision.

You divide your time between your Hong Kong studio in Wong Chuk Hang and Shanghai. What differences have you observed between the two major cities?
I have been in China for 23 years. Shanghai is a very fast-growing city and full of energy. Whereas Hong Kong has stopped for the past three or four years; it’s actually becoming less international. If you look at the government in Shanghai and the local community, there is such a respect for art and its artists. But looking at Hong Kong, one might question how many good artists there are in the city. Shanghai, on the other hand, has so many ‘West Kowloon’s, not just one. And there are 20 or 30 more museums as well.

But Shanghai is not an easy place to survive in as an artist. You have to be very good at what you do, you have to be really good with people, and you have to be really good with the market as well. You have to be ahead of the market rather than follow it. We change because of our environment, but the environment doesn’t change because of us.

You have collaborated successfully as an artistic designer with international brands, such as Porsche and Ferrari. How did that come about?
I think these international luxury brands are looking for a Chinese artist who can connect with people internationally and locally. I understand both cultures – especially the Italian mindset, and I can instil Chinese art into their luxurious products harmoniously; it goes beyond just mixing two things together.

You’re also pretty active on Instagram. What value does social media give you as an artist?
I am encouraging my team to be active on all social media platforms because it’s better to share and let more people appreciate your art. Why keep art to yourself? Open up and let people see it.

“I am like the horse whisperer. I go around the world, to places like Mongolia, to see horses. And when I find them, they are like my friends. I’m painting their vision”

If you could go back in time and meet anyone from the past, who would it be?
My auntie, who passed away four years ago. She gave me my name ‘Simon’. And also, my master, Fan Tzu Teng. I would pay a million dollars to have dinner with them again, because as you get older, you realise the number of people you love gets less and less. Fan Tzu Teng is like my father. He had no son, so I was like a son to him. When I approached his body at his funeral, I knelt down; I knelt all the way to his body. There were a few hundred people there and they all stood up. This is the highest respect I could give to my teacher.

When do you get your best ideas?
I always get my best ideas when I’m having a shower. I feel light, like I’m being purified by water – and all my spirituality emerges.

Do you still play music?
I love music. I still have my band in China. I used to write music before I got too busy. I’m a left-handed drummer (like Phil Collins) as well as a singer. If you ever hear me sing, you’d be surprised. Music is my life. It helps to create good art.

Thank you.

(Interview by: Robert Murry; Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan; Venue: Simon Ma Gallery)

Civil justice champion Albert So on arbitration, blockchain, AI, and more…

Law practitioner, regulator, professor and technology whizz, multifaceted legal brain Albert So talks arbitration, money-laundering within the blockchain and robo-law, a deep learning AI technology…

How did you get into law?
My first degree was in computer science, but I took some elective social science subjects including law. It was then that I discovered my interest in the subject and pursued a second degree in law at King’s College London before studying business law at the University of Cambridge. I then went on to Harvard Kennedy School in the US for my research degree in investment law.

You are the founder and Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Mediation and Arbitration Centre. How did that come about?
I started my professional experience in Canary Wharf, London, where I learnt about regulatory issues and commonwealth jurisdictions, then I returned to Hong Kong just before the global economic crisis and the collapse of the Lehman Brothers. At the time, I was a regulator doing investigative work on money laundering and financial disputes, but because the incident involved so many complainants and victims, and the caseload was tremendous, and nobody knew then what financial dispute resolution or mediation were, it called for civil justice reform.

That was when [in 2009] the Hong Kong Mediation and Arbitration Centre (HKMAAC) was founded. Traditionally these cases would have been brought to court for litigation; however, with the founding of the HKMAAC, we would instead try to settle disputes by arbitration, or alternative dispute resolution. It’s a means to handle financial disputes to omit the high legal costs of going to court, the long waiting time, and overall, coming to a solution that would be beneficial for all parties.

At the time of its inception, we were only 15 regulators, today we are probably more than 40,000 students, mediators, arbitrators, as well as graduates that have undertaken our arbitration training. We also provide about 10 scholarships at different local universities including the University of Hong Kong (HKU), the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

You also teach law. Is teaching something you have always been passionate about?
Soon after founding the HKMAAC, I took up teaching posts at several universities in Hong Kong, including teaching anti-money laundering at HKU, and teaching students and doctors at CUHK about the legalities of wealth succession planning. I love to teach, but I also want to share my own practical experience from work. I can see the value in sharing first-hand experiences, real case studies, market trends, and the challenges, questions and objections of clients and how to solve problems effectively given each unique situation.

So, this is why I love teaching, however if I had to choose [between teaching and practising the law], I don’t think I could do one without the other. If I were solely a practitioner, it would be a waste not to share my professional knowledge. On the other hand, I could not do traditional teaching work at the university without any practical experience. Anybody can teach theories, but I believe a good educator is very likely a very good practitioner as well.

“Anybody can teach theories, but I believe a good educator is very likely a very good practitioner as well”

You have since co-founded your own law firm and followed paths outside the courtroom. Tell us more.
I co-founded AC Lawyers with my partner Carina Chan. I am Chairman of the Wealth Succession Planning Association, and Dean of the California University School of Business Law and Technology. I’m also an honorary legal advisor for several NGOs in the city and I am leading a few legal robo-advisory services for the community. I currently fund a legal technology project for the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. It is basically a robo-lawyer.

That sounds intriguing. Could you explain what exactly is a robo-lawyer?
Since my first degree was in technology, I am still very interested in this field. A robo-lawyer is basically a deep-analysis AI that will allow potential clients to enquire about legal matters, and practitioners to do the most value-added legal work. It does the more tedious and routine tasks such as drafting contracts from scratch and answering questions regarding the law, for example, if it is possible to settle different assets in various countries with one will, or if one is required to pay inheritance tax in a certain country. Of course, this won’t replace the practitioners and the paperwork that requires careful attention to detail, but it will help save precious time, lower legal costs, and reduce embarrassing situations in some cases.

How far away are we from having a robo-lawyer?
We still have a long way to go. The project is not mature enough to commercialise. Unlike customer-service AI and concierge support which utilise simple AI technology for answering questions and providing information without much deep analysis, in law, questions and answers are not straightforward. It may be for the better that we have this time to explore and continue to improve the development of this kind of technology – but I think it would be an amazing thing for the law industry.

“A robo-lawyer won’t replace the practitioners, but it will help save precious time, lower legal costs, and reduce embarrassing situations in some cases”

As a former regulator, what is your opinion of cryptocurrency investments?
It’s a very hot topic in the industry, not only for citizens but for corporations as well, and in particular in the wealth succession planning industry because before the emergence of cryptocurrency, we would do a lot of traditional investment in antiques, art, gold and diamonds.

However, investing in NFTs and cryptocurrency can be too volatile to predict. The value fluctuates a lot and makes it difficult for investors to foresee the future of this new investment method.

I personally love blockchain technology and the idea of decentralisation behind it, but from a regulatory perspective, there can be challenges and loopholes that raise alarms, especially when it comes to criminal activities and money-laundering issues. The problem arises when tracking the transactions of these individuals or syndicates as the blockchain is anonymous in nature. So, from a regulatory perspective, appropriate or suitable regulations may be a good thing for future development.

What can the Hong Kong government do to further progress the cryptocurrency market?
I think the government can further the progress of cryptocurrency in the city by minimising platform risk. Platforms at the moment will hold cryptocurrency and NFT assets for clients. However, there is a chance that they can mismanage the assets or lose the device which holds the assets, which is why we need consumer protection.

There is also the issue of money laundering due to the anonymity of the transactions within the blockchain, which poses a problem for the government and regulators, but if we have suitable supervision, we can do things well. The Securities and Futures Commission’s proposed licensing registration for platforms running crypto businesses is a good solution, as this doesn’t strictly prohibit NFTs and cryptocurrency investments, but provides some degree of consumer protection. It strikes a fair balance for both sides to get the best of both worlds.

What’s your favourite way to relax?
Before the Covid-19 pandemic, I loved travelling. It’s very important to go outside the bounds of what you are familiar with to see more things, meet more people and broaden your perspective. It’s not only good for your health, but also for your way of thinking and assimilating ideas. It would be pointless, however, for me to take a long vacation because clients will always call for decisions and advice, so I remind myself to take time for myself and that rest is for the longer journey ahead.

I love working in the city, but living in the countryside. Some of the activities I enjoy are punting, canoeing, boating and generally being out in nature.

Thank you.

Interview by: Roberliza Eugenio; Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan; Venue: Farrington Interiors Ltd.

Leigh Tung-Chou on fundraising for Hong Kong Ballet and other charities dear to her heart

Performance arts and Children loom large in Leigh Tung-Chou’s life – from raising her own to aiding budding dancers to encouraging exchange students through the Tung Foundation…

Leigh Tung-Chou wearing dress by Erdem and heels by Aquazzura

What was your childhood like? Any fond memories growing up?
I was born in New York, but my extended family lived in Hong Kong. I would travel back and forth during the holidays, while I attended Nightingale-Bamford all-girls school in Manhattan. This is the same school author of Gossip Girl Cecily von Ziegesar attended – she was a year above me! When I was 16, my parents permanently moved back to Hong Kong while I continued my education at Hotchkiss Boarding School in Lakeville, Connecticut.

It was a very traditional ’70s and ’80s upbringing. There weren’t many Asian kids in our school. I think there might have been only about five or six of us in Manhattan, including my sister. Every time I would fly back to Hong Kong, I felt a geater connection with the people here – they were more like me. Living in New York then was wonderful, but gritty and definitely an eye-opening experience.

The most enjoyable experiences I had in childhood were travelling from the US to Hong Kong on Pan Am. Flying from Anchorage to Tokyo and then Hong Kong, over the city’s big billboards and neon lights as the plane took its sharp turn on the way down to the landing strip of the old Kai Tak Airport, then stepping off to smell the harbour – that is still very memorable.

Leigh Tung-Chou-fundraising-charity-HongKongBallet-hongkong-gafencu-people-interview (1) — Leigh Tung-Chou wearing top by Zimmermann, pants by Victoria Beckham and heels by Gianvito Rossi

What path did your career take?
After university, I spent a year at Beijing University to study Chinese then got a job at Bain & Company, a management consulting firm based in Hong Kong. One of the clients I worked for was The Gap. At the time, there were a lot of market entry work with multinationals looking to come to Hong Kong and China. This developed my interest in strategic planning. They offered me a job to work at their headquarters in San Francisco. Looking for a new adventure, I took it.

After a few years, my family suggested I try my hand at the family business [Orient Overseas]. I was conflicted about moving back to Hong Kong because I had just met my husband in San Francisco while attending Stanford Graduate School of Business. Ultimately, I decided to return with the hope that what is meant to be will eventually work out. After a year or so of long distance phone calls and e-mails, Stanley moved here – a chance he took that I am so grateful for.

At this point, I was presented with the opportunity to work for Dior where I became the Marketing Director of Communications. Having always enjoyed marketing retail, specialty apparel and luxury goods, I took a chance to do something I loved and it was very fulfilling. In those days, Hong Kong was Asia’s regional base for many luxury brands. We managed 13 different countries – a very exciting time to be involved in that industry and an experience that I will never forget.

Leigh Tung-Chou-fundraising-charity-HongKongBallet-hongkong-gafencu-people-interview (2) — Leigh Tung-Chou wearing jacket by Brandon Maxwell, dress by Erdem and heels by Alaïa

Any highlights during this time of your life?
I did several projects with various luxury brands, including Bulgari, Fendi and Dior – all part of the LVMH Group. I felt very gratified when I did Fendi’s Great Wall of China fashion show in 2007. There were many moving components that made the project extremely challenging, but it was a great meeting of Eastern and Western cultures. In terms of personal accomplishments, that would be raising my children. My twins have just turned 18 – I can’t believe they are so old already.

What led to your involvement in charity work, particularly in performing arts?
It happened very organically. As the kids got older, I started to feel that I wanted to be closer to home to see them more frequently. I wanted to be more flexible with my time, which I know is not possible for a lot of women, so I really admire women who are able to balance it all.

I never did ballet myself, but my two daughters took lessons when they were really young and loved it. That’s how I got involved with performing arts. I saw how my children were blessed with opportunities to be exposed to different art forms, while many kids in Hong Kong didn’t have that outlet. We need performing arts as a society to be able to feel alive and connected, so I thought it would be a fitting opportunity to get involved and give back to the community through fundraising for Hong Kong Ballet.

We were able to launch a student-ticket scheme for disadvantaged youths. And because of my experience in marketing, I knew a lot of brands that were keen on sponsoring charitable projects with the Ballet, so it worked out well that both worlds could come together.

“My children were blessed with opportunities to be exposed to different art forms… We need performing arts as a society to be able to feel alive and connected”

You are on the Development Committee of Hong Kong Ballet. How did you get involved?
I’ve been involved with Hong Kong Ballet for many years. I started as a comittee member for The Nutcracker Christmas Benefit when my children were still very young. I was asked to co-chair the Hong Kong Ballet Guild, then joined the Board of Governors where I served a three-year term before sitting on the development committee.

Leigh Tung-Chou-fundraising-charity-HongKongBallet-hongkong-gafencu-people-interview (3) — Leigh Tung-Chou wearing jacket by Valentino, shirt by Alexander McQueen, pants by JOSEPH and heels by Aquazzura

Tell us more about the annual Nutcracker Christmas Benefit.
The benefit was founded by Deirdre Fu Tcheng to create outreach in the community and to foster the love of dance to a wider audience. It was a very interesting time, with the arrival of our then new Artistic Director Septime Webre [in 2017] – he’s doing a wonderful job.
It happens every year and has become one of our key fundraisers for the Hong Kong Ballet. A lot of children get involved and have the opportunity to dance with our professional dancers, their families are also invited to watch them perform on stage. It’s a very festive event that kicks off the holiday season.

Any other projects in the pipeline?
This fall, Hong Kong Ballet will present Carmina Burana in conjunction with the HK Philharmonic. My mother has spent many years on the Board of Governors for the orchestra, so it will be very exciting to see two of the city’s most established performing arts groups come together.
Next spring, Hong Kong Ballet will also present the world premiere of a ballet Coco Chanel: The Life of a Fashion Icon. We have more exciting projects coming up and it’s wonderful to see Hong Kong back in action. We cannot wait for the days of social-distancing restrictions to lift entirely and see the city in full force.

“It’s wonderful to see Hong Kong back in action. We cannot wait for the days of social-distancing restrictions to lift entirely and see the city in full force”

You are also Director of the Tung Foundation. Tell us what the foundation stands for?
The Tung Foundation is our family foundation. It was founded in 1979 by my father and uncle to support philanthropic endeavours in Hong Kong, China and the US, primarily through promoting education. The family strongly believes in the power of exchange programmes to create greater understanding between both countries. Because of the pandemic a lot of the cultural exchanges have been suspended, but we’re hoping that these can restart soon. It’s very important to be able to promote understanding through education and shared experiences.
Aside from the Tung Foundation, I have done a lot of charitable activities with the Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation, and a few other works with smaller but equally important charities, such as Bring Me A Book, which helps place libraries in underserved communities to teach adults to engage with children through literacy.

Leigh Tung-Chou-fundraising-charity-HongKongBallet-hongkong-gafencu-people-interview (4) — Leigh Tung-Chou wearing dress by Zimmermann and heels by Alaïa

What do you like to do to relax?
We live in the Southside, so I like going for walks with my husband. We used to hike a lot, but I tore my ACL last winter, so that’s not been possible lately.

Family time is important to you. Is there an activity the family enjoys doing together?
Every year we go on a family ski trip, which is a big highlight for everybody. The kids and I really enjoy it though my husband is more reluctant since he doesn’t like to ski as much, but he really enjoys how it brings the family together, especially now that our kids are in the US. Having times like these when we are together are all the more precious as the years go by.

If you could meet someone from the past, who would it be?
I would want to meet my great-grandfather [Wen Ying-hsing]. He was the first Chinese general to graduate from West Point. I would love to find out what it was like to be in a military academy in the US as an exchange student during the Boxer Indemnity Scholarship Program in the 1900s. To understand the relationship between the US and China at the time would be fascinating and very timely in this global climate.

Thank you.

Interview by: Roberliza Eugenio; Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan; Hair and Make Up: Owen Ko; Venue: Andante

Chef-owner of Table by Sandy Keung on conscious seasonal cuisine

Chef-owner of seasonal-based restaurant TABLE, Sandy Keung not only puts consciousness in her cuisine, but is also leading the way for a healthier, more sustainable way of eating.

people-interview-tablebysandykeung-conscious-eating-seasonal-dining-gafencu 1 — *Sandy Keung in a Cara cutout pleated crepe jumpsuit by Alice + Olivia, courtesy of THE OUTNET*

Could you tell us about your background before opening TABLE by Sandy Keung?

I grew up in Hong Kong but moved to New York for school. I was a trained accountant and a hedge fund manager. I moved to Vietnam to do investment for the hedge fund before moving back here after three years. I became CFO for a listed company before leaving finance to open TABLE by Sandy Keung.

When did your passion for cooking begin?
When I was living in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, I had a large apartment with a gorgeous view and a beautiful kitchen. I would often entertain friends and colleagues and cook for them. I would get compliments for the dishes I prepared, and thought to myself, ‘perhaps this is something I could do as a profession’.

What made you decide to take the plunge?
I started to really enjoy cooking. So, I decided to test the waters. If things didn’t work out, I always had my finance background to fall back on. I volunteered to work in a French restaurant in Ho Chi Minh to see if it was really something I could adopt as a profession. In 2014, I left my career and CFO position and started Table by Sandy Keung.

What is the concept behind the restaurant?
When I started Table by Sandy Keung, I never had it in mind to define the cuisine by geographic location. I thought that would be restrictive – and it wasn’t reflective of my own upbringing and background. So, I thought, ‘why don’t I just focus on the ingredients instead’?

I decided to start an ingredient-based cuisine where we take ingredients that are in season and apply the best treatment and cooking method for them. I realise that this is quite a Hong Kong approach. After all, we are a melting pot of different things.
I think over the years people have gotten used to eating seasonal items from all over the world. To me, eating seasonally is also eating locally-sourced ingredients. I believe when you choose something that is in harmony with your environment, it contributes to your wellbeing – that is the true purpose of eating seasonally.

I guess as my culinary journey evolves, I’ve become more conscious about sustainability and going back to my roots – reflecting on what seasonality means, and what it means to eat seasonally. I explored traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and the principles of man and nature in harmony. In TCM, we believe that besides eating certain things that will contribute to our general well-being, there are also certain parts of the body – internal organs – that match with that particular season. For example, in summer it’s actually best for us to nourish the heart, so we should eat something that is cooling to combat the heat and lower the blood pressure.

people-interview-tablebysandykeung-conscious-eating-seasonal-dining-gafencu 3 — *Sandy Keung in a Net Sustain one-sleeve cady maxi dress by ESSE Studios, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER*

What does this perspective mean for Table?
I’m taking Table a step further. Instead of just ‘Ingredient-based Cuisine’, I now define it as ‘Conscious Ingredient-based Cuisine’. It’s more than just the ingredients, we are more conscious of every step of the process involved, from intention to environment to the people. I realised that it is difficult to ask people to order a lot of vegetables, especially when you go to a seafood restaurant like mine. So, what I have started doing is incorporating seasonal local vegetables that Hongkongers have grown up with and are familiar with, such as bitter melon, winter melon and wax gourd (which are cooling for the body during the summer season) and added them into our daily soup or as part of an amuse bouche, so diners don’t really have a choice. [laughs]

This is not to say that we shouldn’t eat meat or seafood, but we do need ingredients that balance and nourish the right part of our body and mind, which is my way of gently pushing my guests to have a healthier and more balanced meal. Also, these are ingredients that you probably won’t see in a western restaurant. I like to think that this makes Table by Sandy Keung’s cuisine uniquely Hong Kong and uniquely Sandy’s.

“When I started Table by Sandy Keung, I never had it in mind to define the cuisine by geographic location. I thought that would be restrictive – and not reflective of my own upbringing” background”

Table by Sandy Keung treats its shellfish via depuration. Why is this important?
Depuration is actually a popular process of using non-thermal techniques to purify seafood naturally. This basically provides the shellfish with a cleaner and more appropriate environment, with the right temperature, pH level and salinity. This way the shellfish can naturally filter their metabolic waste and accumulated pollutants – offering cleaner and safer seafood for eating.
Considering that the city imports over 90 percent of live seafood from Europe, North America and other places far and near via “dry” shipping, for the time it takes the shellfish to arrive into the city, it is essential, in my opinion, that we do depuration upon arrival. Otherwise, it’s like not having a shower or going to the bathroom for three days.

Unfortunately, it is a process that isn’t well known in Hong Kong yet. Although they are used in modern swimming pools, such as those in hotels, or in high-end recreational fish aquariums, they aren’t used for food safety, which comes as a surprise to me since it is very common in Europe for water and shellfish treatment to improve food safety.

people-interview-tablebysandykeung-conscious-eating-seasonal-dining-gafencu 4 — *Sandy Keung in a ruffled silk-organza blouse by ZIMMERMANN, courtesy of THE OUTNET; Babette organic cotton-blend twill wide-leg pants by Iris & Ink, courtesy of THE OUTNET*

You also founded Good BBQ. Could you tell us more.
Good BBQ is a chain of siu mei restaurants (Hong Kong-style roast meat). I love siu mei and I would love to see this local favourite expand beyond our borders. We are actually opening a location in London in the near future which is very exciting, as I get to see this iconic Hong Kong dish reach other cities.

Do you have any advice for those planning to enter the F&B industry?
In any change you wish to make, ask yourself if this is something you can imagine yourself doing as a job. It’s one thing to enjoy doing something, it’s something entirely different when you have to do it for work. My advice is to try it out, before you decide.

Is there any particular memory that reminds you of your purpose as a chef?
There was one occasion during the pandemic when dining out was under strict restrictions. One of our regular customers had wanted to cheer up his elderly mother for not having been out for a long time. He had wanted to treat her to our signature crab rice on a Sunday, but because we were closed. So, he had asked our manager if he could pick up the dish the day before and be given instructions on how to reheat it instead. Instead, I told him to ask the guest, if he was truly serious about coming in on a Sunday, I would come in to cook the dish for him to pick up on the day. I feel joy and am grateful being able to be an instrument for a son to show love to his mother, or for people to share happiness through my food.

On a bad day, what is your go-to comfort food?
I like unwinding after a long day of service, especially after the Christmas rush, with some caviar. It’s like a little pat on the back for a hard day’s work.

What dish best represents Hong Kong?
I think siu mei dishes like roasted goose, roast pork and barbeque rice are iconic staples of Hong Kong and perfectly represents the city.

Thank you.

Interview by: Roberliza Eugenio; Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan; Hair and Make up: Heti Tsang; Venue: Arclinea FSS and Officine Gullo Flagship Store @ESSERE

Brandon Chau on founding Noblesse Lifestyle Group, and his latest venture, Beyond Sleep

Deep in the heart of Central, serial entrepreneur Brandon Chau brings sustainable, premium beds and bedding products to life at his bespoke store aimed at helping customers get a healthier night’s sleep.

people-interview-brandonchau-noblesselifestylegroup-beyondsleep-hongkong-gafencu-1 — Brandon Chau in Yellow beige suit by Sartoria Tofani Napoli

What’s the inspiration behind Noblesse Lifestyle Group?
I started this business 10 years ago. I was a barrister at the time. So basically I followed in my parent’s footsteps and decided to go into law. But then after I practised for around three to four years I decided that law wasn’t my thing. I’m a bit of an introvert and to be honest I was very stressed out on a daily basis. It wasn’t something I wanted to commit my whole life to so I decided to start my own business instead.

At the time, I was travelling in the UK and I came across a bed store called Viceroy. I thought it was an amazing brand with a long heritage, everything was handmade, natural materials. So I decided to try it out for myself and I fell in love with the product and thought that maybe this was something I could bring to Hong Kong – not only to start a business but to share something I’m deeply fond of.

The idea behind Noblesse is a one-stop shop to provide premium, lifestyle services. We don’t just focus on beds and bedding but also on a range of lifestyle products that focus on wellbeing and sustainability.

people-interview-brandonchau-noblesselifestylegroup-beyondsleep-hongkong-gafencu-3 — Brandon Chau in Pink jacket by Cesare Attolini Napoli

It’s quite a leap from barrister to entrepreneur. Was it an easy transition?
It was actually very difficult. Being a barrister is very challenging. You have to be very sharp, very on point. You need a lot of time for preparation. But starting a business is challenging as well – but on a very different level. You have to come up with a concept and then realise that concept – taking it from on paper to an actual business.

In the beginning I had to pitch my ideas to the brands and then persuade them to let me be their authorised dealer. Then come up with a business model, a business plan and then hire a team, train the team – none of that was easy. Of course our type of products were rare in the market 10 years ago – a natural, luxury bed product. It took some time for people to fully accept and realise the value of our products. Helping them to improve their sleep but also being conscious of the environment.
We have around 40 staff across all the different businesses. Human Resources is one of the most challenging aspects of the business. But I am very grateful over the years to have gathered a very good team. The key to every business is having a good team to run it.

people-interview-brandonchau-noblesselifestylegroup-beyondsleep-hongkong-gafencu-2 — Brandon Chau in Brown check jacket by WW Chan & Sons Tailors Hong Kong

When do you get your best ideas?
Travelling. Most of my business ideas come while I’m travelling, if not all actually. For example, the concept for Attire House came while I was travelling through Italy, France, Japan and Korea. Because when you stay too long in one place your mindset gets stuck.

In 2016, you established Attire House. Can you elaborate a little on the concept?
It arose out of my passion for classic menswear – and the whole gentlemanly lifestyle. I wanted to do something a bit different. Not just start a store, but an iconic concept that is all inclusive. So, it includes a cocktail bar, a cigar lounge, a barber shop and a bespoke menswear shop all under the same roof. That was the original idea.

The business has gone through a lot of changes over the years. This concept was the first of its kind in Hong Kong, I would say. It’s not easy running a concept of all different operations in one place. First of all you need a large space, with a large rent. Then, you have different teams with different hours. So, over the years we decided to spin off into different concepts. So the bar has its own separate identity, Bar Deluxe. It’s a direct collaboration with a bar from Tokyo, run by this legendary bartender in Japan. We’ve been running it for five years now and it is becoming a popular spot to go to.

The barber shop has merged with the cigar lounge, which is called Bertie’s Cigars. We started it around four years ago. It’s actually named after the son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, King Edward VII, nicknamed Bertie. He was a bit of a rakish prince back in the day and he liked smoking cigars and horse racing. So, the club is cheekily named after him.

“The Attire House concept arose out of my passion for classic menswear – and the whole gentlemanly lifestyle. It includes a cocktail bar, a cigar lounge, a barber shop and a bespoke menswear shop all under the same roof”

How do you fit family life – and raising three boys – into your busy schedule?
It’s crazy! That’s the straightforward answer. But to be honest, I think the pandemic helped a bit because it gave people the chance to spend more time at home, for which I am quite grateful. I got to know my sons a bit more, especially my young son, because he just turned three. The pandemic has been a huge disruption, but it also means I spend more time with my children. And the bond has definitely deepened over the past two years.

“The pandemic has been a huge disruption but it also means I spend more time with my children. And the bond has definitely deepened over the past two years”

In 2021, you branched out again with Beyond Sleep. How does it tie in with sustainability and wellness?
This is our tenth year, so we decided to come up with a new concept – Beyond Sleep. Our angle has always been on the history, the luxury and craftsmanship but it’s also important that they are all natural products. So, not only good for health but also good for the environment. There has always been a sustainability angle that we haven’t pushed enough. Sleep is very important. Something that people sometimes overlook. But part of that are the concepts of sustainability and wellness. This is what we want to focus on with our new branding.

For the front of the shop we have done something different, to make it look like a sleep museum. So you see a wall with all the natural materials that are used with our products. Where the products are from and how they are processed can be fully explained. There is full transparency with our products that we can share with our customers. People want to know what they’re buying. We also have a sleep pod. It looks like a spaceship. Within that sleep pod, not only can you experience our bed, it’s also fully integrated with smart-code technology – so you can voice control the temperature, the lighting, the air purifier, the music and the mood.

Then we have the pillow bar, kind of inspired by my own cocktail bar, with more than 30 different pillows. Mostly from Switzerland and Austria, all made with natural materials. Different people, with different sleeping habits, require different pillows.

people-interview-brandonchau-noblesselifestylegroup-beyondsleep-hongkong-gafencu-4 — Brandon Chau in Blue Chinese Tang jacket by AWong & Co.

What was the last cigar you smoked?
Cigars are my vice. One of my less healthy habits. The last cigar I smoked is a small brand called Juan Lopez. It’s a double robusto, which is quite a fat cigar.

You also practice martial arts. What is your secret to being a good martial artist?
I’ve been interested in martial arts for a very long time. My parents sent me to learn kung fu because they were worried I might get bullied. I became fascinated with Bruce Lee. I watched his movies and I became blown away. He’s still my idol. Now I practice Wing Chun. A traditional martial art popularised by Ip Man and also learned by Bruce Lee. Martial arts helps me to focus. It’s like a moving meditation. It helps you to reset. It’s something you need to do on a regular basis and practice and practice and practice. You need perseverance.

Thank you.

Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Andy Wan; Venue: Beyond Sleep