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Maida's university journey traverses three continents, encompassing experiences in Chile, the UK, and Hong Kong. In Chile, university life pulsated with the rhythm of academia intertwined with the vibrant energy of salsa clubs and community events. Amidst the camaraderie of student life, Maida forged connections and embraced the vivacious spirit of her surroundings.
It was in bustling Hong Kong where Maida's narrative took a dramatic turn. Here, the pursuit of academic excellence and professional success in banking and consulting overshadowed extracurricular activities and the development of soft skills. Maida talks about how living in Hong Kong prompted her to reevaluate her values, leading to a constant internal dialogue about whether to adhere to societal norms or stay true to her own beliefs.
Maida's realization came during her exchange in the UK, where she reconnected with herself and learned to embrace her individual path. In the UK, Maida embarked on a journey of eclectic exploration, balancing academic pursuits with the joyous sway of Latin Social Dance.
This voyage led her towards incorporating more diverse extracurricular activities in universities to develop a broader skill set beyond the job market's demands. Maida’s describes her journey as a non-traditional graduate from business school, highlighting her Latin American mindset of following one's dreams and heart. She contrasts this with the competitive nature and emphasis on traditional career paths in Asian education. She stresses the importance of staying true to oneself amidst societal pressures to conform, acknowledging that everyone's journey is unique. Maida playfully jests about managing unconventional clubs, like one centered around instant noodles, can cultivate skills such as people management, event planning, and marketing, which may not be developed through traditional avenues.
When offering advice to others considering traveling or moving abroad, Maida shares her way of staying rooted in identity and values. She shares how journaling has helped her maintain this connection with herself, enabling her to engage with different perspectives while safeguarding her authenticity. Maida also encourages flexibility and resilience, reassuring others that it's okay if plans don't unfold as expected and that they can always start anew.
Despite initially feeling anxious and overwhelmed by the future and societal expectations, she found solace in mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, and journaling, which helped her stay present. Though anxiety still lingered at times, she learned to manage it by recognizing when fear of the future was speaking and grounding herself in the present through breathing exercises and self-reflection. Embracing vulnerability, inspired by Brené Brown's book "Daring Greatly" and TED talks, she sees discomfort as a path to growth and authenticity.
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This episode delves into the journey of individuals like Magdalena, who navigate the transition from their native culture to a new and diverse environment. It explores the tension between conforming to the societal norms of their adopted home in Hong Kong and showcasing their unique identity rooted in their Chilean heritage.
Magdalena, hails from Chile and has been calling Hong Kong home for nearly five years.
With a business degree now in hand, Magdalena describes herself in three vivid words: curious, determined, and positive. Her insatiable curiosity leads her to museums, books, and new places, always eager to learn something new. Her determination drives her to pursue her goals relentlessly, while her positive outlook helps her find silver linings even in challenging times.
In Chile, making friends was a breeze—striking up a conversation while grocery shopping could quickly lead to an invitation for lunch. But in Hong Kong, friendships unfold more slowly, requiring patience and effort. The city’s competitive spirit, evident in both academic and professional realms, was a stark contrast to her more relaxed experience back home. Magdalena found herself swept up in this relentless drive for success, which, while initially overwhelming, eventually fueled her own ambitions.
Despite these differences, Magdalena finds ways to keep her Chilean traditions alive. She treasures the Chilean national holiday on September 18th, a day filled with traditional food, music, and dance. Moreover,Magdalena has found a unique way to bridge her two worlds through her Instagram account. As an aspiring content creator, she shares her life in Hong Kong and her travels with a diverse audience. By producing content mainly in English with Spanish subtitles, she connects with both local and international followers. Her posts offer a glimpse into her life as a Latina in Hong Kong and the rich culture of Chile, creating a cultural exchange that resonates with her audience.
Magdalena’s experience in Hong Kong has been a blend of challenges and opportunities. She leverages her unique background to secure scholarships and often finds herself as the first Chilean many locals meet. She sees this as a chance to make a positive impression and proudly share her culture.
Living abroad and putting herself out there on social media has taught Magdalena the power of vulnerability and confidence. Speaking to her camera in public, a once daunting task, has become second nature. She embraces her distinctive style, often wearing bold colors and prints that stand out in Hong Kong’s more muted fashion landscape. This flair for fashion reflects her vibrant personality and helps her make a memorable impression.
Maida’s instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/notxsofia?igsh=MXVycWo4MGxqZ25veA==
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Initially consumed by the rigors of high school academia, Zening's transition to university life marks a pivotal moment of self-discovery. Embracing extracurricular activities with fervor, he dives headfirst into the vibrant tapestry of campus life, from the drama club to leadership roles in the mainland undergraduate association. Driven by a thirst for connection and understanding, Zening becomes a catalyst for change, spearheading initiatives to bridge the divide between mainland and local student communities.
Zening's journey also sheds light on his experiences navigating bureaucracy and interacting with high-ranking officials in his role at the China Engagement Office. Working within a small-scale office, he finds himself thrust into the forefront of engaging with notable figures, often tasked with representing his institution to mainland guests, despite grappling with feelings of inadequacy and bureaucratic complexities.
In Zening's narrative, there's a reflection on the uncertainty of knowing exactly what to do or pursue. However, the message highlights the belief that despite this uncertainty, there's always a way to find positivity or the best path forward from one's current position. Additionally, Zening emphasizes the importance of maintaining benevolent intentions towards others, which not only fosters goodwill but also empowers individuals to provide meaningful guidance and support to those around them. Armed with a bold vision for the future, Zening sets his sights on a career at the intersection of technology and entrepreneurship.
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As an art student, my journey has been one of self-discovery and exploration. From a young age, I found solace in sketching and painting, transforming blank walls into my personal canvas. Gradually, art became more than just a hobby; it became my passion.
For me, art is about creating a world of my own. I love bringing my imagination to life, turning characters, stories, and emotions into tangible forms through drawings, videos, and sculptures. It's a way for me to explore my innermost thoughts and feelings, navigating personal struggles and societal issues along the way.
One artist who deeply inspires me is Luke Chang Chin Wai, a Hong Kong artist with a multifaceted identity. Through his work, he challenges societal norms and provokes thought, using art as a tool for social commentary and self-expression.
Approaching graduation, the uncertainty of the future looms large. However, I've come to define myself not just as an artist, but as a lifelong explorer. Art isn't just a career path for me; it's a journey of self-discovery and growth. While the road ahead may be uncertain, I'm determined to continue creating art that reflects my experiences, challenges norms, and fosters connection with others.
One recent piece of art I created during a residency program in South Africa was a ceramic sculpture inspired by traditional African masks. Titled "I Attract Me Myself," it explores themes of identity, protection, and interconnectedness. Through this piece and others, I've discovered the joy of creating art not just for accolades or grades, but as a form of meditation and self-expression.
Reflecting on my journey, I've encountered challenges, including struggles with body image and societal expectations. Growing up in Hong Kong, where there's immense pressure to conform to certain standards, I faced body shaming and insecurities. These experiences shaped my artistic expression, inspiring me to explore themes of identity, self-acceptance, and empowerment through my work.
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Jennifer Park, a Korean expatriate who spent her formative years in mainland China and Hong Kong, invites us into her world in this episode of the podcast. Her journey is a fascinating exploration of the complexities of cultural identity and the intricacies of navigating multiple languages and traditions. Born in Korea but raised in mainland China due to her father's expat job, Jennifer's early childhood was immersed in Mandarin, shaping her perception of self and identity. Yet, her family's move to Hong Kong at the age of 10 marked a significant shift, introducing her to a new linguistic and cultural landscape.
As Jennifer shares her experiences, we uncover the layers of her multicultural identity. From struggling to maintain her Korean heritage amidst the dominant influences of Westernized education to the challenges of fitting into Korean society during her visits back home, Jennifer's journey is one of constant adaptation and self-discovery. Despite feeling torn between her presence in overseas countries and her Korean roots, Jennifer embraces the richness of her multicultural identity. She reflects on the importance of language as more than just a communication tool but a gateway to understanding different cultures and perspectives.
Join us as we delve deeper into Jennifer's story, exploring the complexities of cultural identity in today's globalized world and the profound impact of embracing diversity and self-discovery.
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Myles, a graduate from the Chinese University of Hong Kong with a background in economics and anthropology, seamlessly balances his roles as a full-time analyst at BlackRock and the CEO of HelpBridge. His commitment to social impact stems from his childhood experiences with a Filipino domestic worker, motivating him to address the challenges faced by marginalized communities in Hong Kong. Through HelpBridge, Myles utilizes technology to provide essential resources and education, striving to empower domestic workers and foster a more equitable society.
Raised in a household deeply rooted in entrepreneurship and community engagement, Myles learned firsthand the importance of economic empowerment and giving back to society. Growing up in a household where his parents ran successful businesses, Myles understood the importance of economic empowerment and the value of acquisition of skills to earn incomes since he was 11. His high school education further fueled his passion for social impact, driving him to actively participate in community initiatives and recognize the transformative potential of leveraging business skills for positive change. These formative experiences laid the foundation for Myles' career trajectory and the establishment of HelpBridge, where he combines his academic background with his family's values to make a meaningful difference in the lives of domestic workers.
Myles' academic journey in economics and anthropology has greatly influenced his approach to supporting domestic workers. His understanding of human capital theory fuels his belief in providing individuals with the skills and knowledge to improve their lives sustainably. Through HelpBridge, Myles seeks to not only provide information but also foster a sense of agency and empowerment among domestic workers. Myles also share his way to be committed to both full-time job and social enterprise. Myles keeps a journal, to write and to question himself to find his aspiration of life. And his final word of advice to other young people: to NEVER GIVE UP!
Myles personal website at: https://mylesng.me
More about HelpBridge visit: https://helpbridge.co
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Tracy embarked on her unexpected journey to Hong Kong five years ago in 2019, drawn by the prospect of college life. While she has developed a deep affection for the city, she readily acknowledges the challenges it presents, from navigating its bustling streets to grappling with the intricacies of learning Cantonese. Tracy's academic pursuits have led her to explore the intricate tapestry of migrant experiences in Hong Kong, particularly focusing on the struggles and sense of belonging among domestic workers. Inspired by personal encounters and a transformative hike with an Indonesian friend, Tracy's research delves into the ways migrant communities navigate their identities and spaces within the city. Today, she joins us to share insights into the complex dynamics of belonging, isolation, and identity struggles faced by foreigners, particularly those marginalized politically or economically. So, if you're ready to be intrigued by Tracy's story , join us on "A Story to Tell."
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