Jewel Purpose: Elegant entrepreneur and multi-tasking mum, Melinda Zeman does it all…

Aiming to spread joy through her jewellery designs, Melinda Zeman shares her inspirations behind Bouchier and what keeps her going as a strong career woman and loving mother…

Wardrobe: Earrings, necklaces, rings by Bouchier, available at On Pedder; Oversized blazer top by Magda Butrym, available at Joyce; Heels by YSL

As the founder, can you tell us what led you to launch the Bouchier jewellery brand?
As a jewellery lover myself, I was inspired to start the company because it was hard to find the kind of items that I felt conveyed my personality. I was looking for something that was a little contemporary and playful as I don’t really take myself too seriously. Ultimately, this led me to create fine jewellery pieces that reflected those values.
Before I started, some two-and-a-half years ago, I was designing pieces for myself as a hobby. Then, one thing led to another, and I started producing items for friends and then for their friends. Eventually, through word of mouth, Bouchier organically grew into the brand it is today.

What do you see as your brand’s unique qualities?
Well, we have a strong emphasis on happiness, playfulness and bright colours, which makes us quite distinct compared to a lot of other fine jewellery brands. With everything that’s going on in the world right now, everyone needs a little happiness and colour in their lives. With that in mind, we give our clients something they can look at that we hope will always bring them joy and automatically lift their spirits.

Wardrobe: Earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings by Bouchier available at On Pedder; Crop blazer by Christopher John Rogers, available at Joyce; Skirt by Molly Goddard; Heels by Amina Muaddi

Fruit Hoops is your best selling collection, where do you find the inspiration for your designs?
Fruit Hoops is our signature collection and, when I first came to devise it, I was aiming to create a very clean and classic line. As I love stacking different pieces, I try not to over-complicate designs and look to keep them timeless and elegant. I also knew I wanted to inject some fun into the collection, so I experimented with a number of different designs and came to love the symbolism of the knot. For me, it very much represents the bond between people, whether a partner, friend or child / parent.
Personally, it’s definitely my favourite collection as there are just so many variations to the look you can create. It can be worn with a casual T-shirt or with a suit to make a certain impression. You can also wear one piece on its own or play with few pieces together, making for a process that’s really quite fun.

What are the challenges of running a company like Bouchier now that it has a truly global footprint?
When it comes to being genuinely international, one of the core values I always try and adhere to with my brand experience is inclusivity. In many ways, I see it as similar to social media in how it allows like-minded women, irrespective of age, location, religion or race, to come together. I want people to feel that Bouchier is a brand that can speak to anyone wherever they may be.
Honestly, when running a business, though, every day is a challenge. I do, however, feel lucky that I live in a world and time where there are so many amazing female entrepreneurs and leaders, people who are really addressing women’s needs and concerns. I genuinely feel there is a sense of sisterhood like never before and that is something that inspires me every day.
In addition, as a mother of four, I find it’s a constant struggle to balance my home and work life. Despite that, I feel blessed that I have been able to turn my passion into a full-time job, something that makes me cherish my children all the more as I never take my time with them for granted.

Wardrobe: Earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings by Bouchier, available at On Pedder; Blazer by Alexander McQueen, available at Joyce; Bag by Alexander McQueen, available at On Pedder; Heels by Amina Muaddi

How did your own experience growing up impact you?
My mom was in finance and worked very long hours and that was something, as a child, that I didn’t really understand. Looking back now, though, I appreciate all the hard work she put into raising me and realise what an exceptional role model she was. Her dedication inspires me to this day and is a constant reminder to me that it is possible to balance your career and role as a mother. I have also come to believe that being a stay-at-home mum is truly one of the hardest jobs in the world – most men wouldn’t last a day! As with many things in life, quality is just as important as quantity so I try to make every moment with my children count.

What is the most important piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
I think, without a doubt, the most important piece of advice I have ever been given is to remember that “No one knows everything”. I think it’s so important to bear in mind that no matter where you are in life or how successful you are, no one person truly knows everything. So, it’s important to keep an open mind and listen to the people around you. If ever you get to a point where you start to believe that you actually know everything, that’s when you’ll stop learning and you’ll miss out on so many opportunities to improve yourself. I am genuinely convinced that the key to ultimate success in life is to never stop learning and to try and be a better version of yourself everyday – not just for you as an individual, but also for the people around you.

Wardrobe: Earrings and rings by Bouchier, available at On Pedder; Turtle neck and blazer by Marine Serre, available at Joyce; Heels by Amina Muaddi

If you could meet any person, past or present, who would it be and why?
I’d love to meet Michelle Obama. I feel like she redefined what it meant to be First Lady. She has been a truly great inspiration and a role model for so many young children across the world. She was the voice of a whole generation of young girls who had previously gone unheard. In this way, she gave many young people the motivation and confidence they lacked and no doubt changed the lives of many of them forever.

Wardrobe: Earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings by Bouchier, available at On Pedder; Dress by Molly Goddard, available at Joyce; Heels by Amina Muaddi

What item is at the top of your bucket list?
I did a safari with my husband a few years ago and would love to go back with my kids for an extended family jungle wilderness holiday. Not only was it an amazing bonding and learning experience, for me, personally the thing I loved the most was the incredible opportunity it gave me to see so many animals in their natural habitat. It really put things into perspective and reminded me how comparatively small we really are in this world… It’s something that humbles you and makes you question your purpose on Earth, while also prompting you to think how to give back – and that’s definitely a lesson I want to teach my children.

Finally, can you share with us a secret, something that most people don’t know about you?
I really enjoy Canto pop and Mando pop. While that’s not wholly a secret, it’s definitely something that surprises a lot of people!

Thank you.

Interview by: Roberliza Eugenio
Photographer: Jack Law
Videographer: Kes Lei
Hair and Make Up: Angel Arlen Pasco
Art director and styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma

Do Yenn: Yenn Wong, cuisine queen of JIA Group

Introducing different gourmet traditions to discerning diners is all in a day’s work for Yenn Wong, founder and owner of multinational F&B company, JIA Group…

What do you recall of your early days in Singapore?
It was quite a simple and normal time. My dad was a businessman and always travelled for work, while my mum, a housewife, was the hands-on one with my older brother and myself. I grew up to be somewhat independent, largely because my brother was a bit of a troublemaker, meaning my mum spent more time on him. I was the one who didn’t cause any problems and – although I wasn’t an A-star student by any means – I managed to finish school without any real problems. I was educated in Singapore until I finished high school. I then enrolled at The University of Western Australia in Perth, ultimately graduating with a degree in Economics, with a
major in marketing.

Were you always going to gravitate toward the hospitality sector?
When I was just a kid, it wasn’t like I was dying to open a restaurant or anything. While I was at university, though, my father wasn’t keen on me doing nothing every summer break, so I would work for KPMG, the Anglo-Dutch accounting firm. From then on, I knew a nineto-five paperwork job was definitely not for me and that I wanted to do something a little more on the creative side…

Was it this impulse that brought you to Hong Kong?
Well, my father has always been something of an entrepreneur, so when I joined his company after graduating, he had just bought a hotel in Causeway Bay. As he had no fixed plans for that property, he asked me to redevelop it into something new. Even though I was just 23 at that time and had absolutely no idea what I was doing, I packed my bags and moved to Hong Kong, taking up the challenge of creating what would ultimately become the J Plus Hotel.

How did you go about making that transformation a reality?
The pre-existing three-star hotel had mainly catered to mainland guests, but my remit was to create a greater value proposition. As it involved a very steep learning curve, it was fortunate that a friend of a friend put me in touch with Philippe Starck, the renowned French architect. Together, we came up with the idea of converting the property into the city’s first real boutique hotel. Unfortunately, the J Plus launch took place just as the SARS outbreak was at its height, which was incredibly stressful. It was a truly transformational experience and one that I’ll never forget. In the end, it all worked out well and, a few years later, we sold the hotel and made a substantial profit.

“A fter interning at KPMG, it became clear that a nineto-five job was not for me”

Today, you’re the head of the JIA Group. Can you tell us more?
The group currently consists of 12 restaurants, which embrace an array of culinary concepts. We pride ourselves on providing a range of gourmet experience, ranging from casual to fine dining, all of which place equal emphasis on the quality of the cuisine and the dining environment. Our outlets not only aim to satiate a customer’s appetite, but also deliver a visual feast. It’s a formula that resonates with our guests and one I take a great deal of pride in.

How has the group coped throughout the course of the Covid-19 outbreak?
Actually, the real struggle started in mid-2019 with the civil unrest, followed closely by the pandemic. As with the rest of the F&B sector, we had to react very quickly and prioritise flexibility, while being obliged to create new ways to drive revenue. One of solutions was to ensure all our fine-dining establishments offered take-away and home delivery. At Duddell’s, one of our Michelin-starred restaurants, for instance, we had never before contemplated any delivery options. Now, though, not only have we partnered with Deliveroo, we’ve also created such tempting menu items such as our Peking Duck Set, which has been specially devised with home dining in mind. Similarly, Louise, one of our other Michelin-starred eateries, now offers such innovations as a Chicken Set Dinner, which comprises our famous roast chicken, caviar pasta and a series of starters, and has gone on to become one of our
most in-demand menu options.

Last year also saw the launch of JIA Everywhere, a digital platform we devised in order to overcome the challenge of the social distancing requirements. This particular initiative, allows us to offer a wide range of services, including the provision of high-end chefs to cook in a customer’s own home, a variety of delivery and pick-up option and even access to our cocktail and wine resources – all of which can be directly accessed via the JIA Everywhere website.

Ultimately, as Hongkongers could not dine out any later than 6pm until recently, we put an infrastructure in place that ensures they can enjoy luxury gourmet experience in the comfort of their own home. In addition to serving genuinely delicious dishes, we also ensure they’re presented in a memorably beautiful fashion – that’s a major reason why the service has become so popular.

Looking ahead, what’s currently in the works that you can tell us about?
The past year has been a time of great change for the group and has seen us adopt a far more aggressive approach. Basically, we have been in survival mode. Despite this, we’ve still opened several new sites and revamped a number of existing establishments in order to ensure they remained viable business propositions. A good example of this is Central’s Tai Kwun compound, where we had the Old Bailey Chinese restaurant, a business almost solely reliant on hosting the kind of events that have been virtually non-existent over the past two years. With this in mind, we consulted the Jockey Club, which has oversight of this heritage location, and decided to reinvent the site as something more daytime-friendly that had greater appeal to locals. This resulted in the creation of Between, a unique artisanal coffee shop.

Another project we’ve been working quite actively on is an extensive refurbishment of the central kitchen supplying food to Hong Kong International Airport, which also hasn’t enjoyed excessive demand over recent months. Our goal here was to transform it into a cloud kitchen – essentially a ‘dark’ kitchen with no seating service or restaurant space – which provides several different culinary options. To make this a functioning reality, we’ve partnered with Deliveroo to deliver across the Sha Tin and Science Park areas. Over the coming year, we’re hoping to open cloud kitchens in a number of additional locations, allowing us to both expand our coverage area and introduce an extended range of cuisine options.

Aside from that, we’re also exploring the possibility of opening up a number of new restaurants. We’re still primarily an F&B business company, after all, and we pride ourselves on our high level of design and the quality of our customer experience. Although it may seem counterintuitive, the Covid-19 outbreak has actually opened up several interesting new spaces and boosted the availability of premium talent, a development we’re more than keen to take advantage of. Watch this space…

Thank you.

Interview by: Tenzing Thondup
Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma
Photos: Jack Law
Video: Kes Lei
Wardrobe: Salvatore Ferragamo, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Roger Vivier & The Outnet.

Block Trooper: Jehan Chu, founder of blockchain venture capital firm Kenetic

Long a supporter of blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies, Jehan Chu now helms Kenetic, a venture capital firm helping others looking to break into the industry.

Kenetic is an interesting business. As its founder and managing partner, how exactly do you define it?
Essentially, it’s a venture capital firm, one that supports start-up companies at a very early stage. In particular, we help to fund entrepreneurs in the blockchain sector, while also providing them with advice and guidance, allowing them to realise their visions of the technology’s future. I firmly believe that blockchain represents the next stage in the evolution of the internet – a new technology that will underpin developments over the next 50 years. With that in mind, Kenetic is a bespoke vehicle designed to help facilitate that evolution.

At what point did you decide the time was right to launch Kenetic?
We opened Kenetic in 2016 when it became apparent that no Asian venture capital business was really focusing on blockchain technology. At the time, those of us who had first ventured into the bitcoin and blockchain space knew something special was
taking place. We also believed that, without support, it wouldn’t necessarily fulfil its potential. That’s where Kenetic comes in – we support those people crazy enough to try and make their dreams come true.

What was it about blockchain / cryptocurrency that first drew you in?
Well, while I was studying International Relations at Johns Hopkins University, I taught myself how to code html. After that, I went to work in New York coding as a front-end developer during the first dot.com boom. In 2013, I first came across Bitcoin. Once I started researching it, I immediately fell down that particular rabbit hole. One of the things that drew me to Bitcoin was my love of decentralisation and the idea of returning power to the people. I soon started a number of related communities, including a local Ethereum group, one of the earliest such associations in Hong Kong, as a means of helping to provide investment advice for those interested in the sector. In 2016, I went fulltime, leaving my job as an art dealer to focus solely on providing blockchain and cryptocurrency investment advice.

Why do you think cryptocurrency has become such an attractive investment option?
When I started out in cryptocurrency, nobody wanted to hear about it. It was, at best, a joke and, at worst, seen as somehow improper. Now, though, it seems as though everyone realises how important cryptocurrency is, especially with regard to decentralisation. If you look at what’s happening in the world right now, centralised systems are failing, making decentralisation seem an increasingly appealing prospect. Even companies like UBS, JP Morgan, Visa and PayPal are turning their attention to Bitcoin and cryptocurrency. It took a little time but it’s happening.

“ Kenetic aims to support people crazy enough to try and make their dreams come true”

Aside from Bitcoin, which other cryptocurrencies do you see as significant?
While Bitcoin is really a payment token or a store-in value token, Ethereum is an application-based blockchain with easily the largest community of developers and applications. Bitcoin is akin to gold, where Ethereum is more like oil – it is used to power things, whether an engine, a machine or a factory. The other interesting one is Polkadot, which is similar to Ethereum but has a very different approach in that it’s really trying to create a network of blockchains.

What are the some of the most common cryptocurrency misconceptions that you encounter?
A lot of people think that as cryptocurrency is not “backed” by anything, it doesn’t have any intrinsic value. This is inherently untrue. The value of Bitcoin and other types of cryptocurrency stems from the subscription and investment of the community, both in terms of dollars and effort. This infuses cryptocurrency and blockchain with value, be it in terms of its use in applications or in having a multi-million-dollar market cap. Basically, they are backed by millions of people who say there is value and are willing to put their money and commitment into them.

You co-founded Social Alpha Foundation, a blockchain / social impact non-profit. What can you tell us about its aims and ambitions?
I was raised by my parents to be very generous and try to support communities. As a result, I have always thought it was important never to take anything for granted and to use my resources to help others. In line with this, the idea behind Social Alpha Foundation is to support blockchain projects that are looking to create social impact. The first grant we made was to a small start-up in South Africa, which was providing official identity documents to children who were either too poor to apply for them or were refugees. What they would do is use blockchain technology to track these kids and verify an identity for them. Right now, though, we’re focused on environmental issues and have recently given a US$250,000 grant to Open Earth, a Yale University initiative aiming to use blockchain to help combat climate change.

In terms of cryptocurrency-friendliness, how do you see Hong Kong ranking on the global scale?
Hong Kong is easily one of the most significant centres in the world when it comes to blockchain and cryptocurrency and is probably the most important such destination in Asia. This is partly because the regulation is very engaged here and the regulators
are very knowledgeable. The entrepreneurial spirit is also very strong and there are a lot of start-ups, especially in the financial sector. There are also many people in institutional and more traditional companies across a variety of different sectors that have become engaged with blockchain and cryptocurrency. All in all, I think that I’m very fortunate to be in Hong Kong as there’s just so much going on here in terms of both cryptocurrency and blockchain.

You also invest in alternative proteins, notably Impossible Foods…
That’s largely because I have been going mostly vegan. I do what is called a 95-percent diet – depending on which week it is, I have only one or two animal protein meals in a seven-day period, staying vegan for the rest of the time. The fact that this has boosted my own health made me want to invest in initiatives such as Impossible Foods, as well as other alternative protein sources. My cholesterol has gone way down; my sleep,
skin and digestion are all better and it’s good for the planet too.

You are also big on meditation…
I actually practice Vipassana, an ancient breathing practice favoured by Buddha as the root of mindfulness and all other forms of meditation. When I was first introduced to it, it was quite a challenge – I had to undergo 10 days of silent retreat without
reading, using a phone or having any human contact. During that time, though, I learned how to quieten my mind, focus and use breathing to achieve a state of centeredness and hyperawareness. While it’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life, it also transformed it in a very positive way.

Thank you.

Interview by: Roberliza Eugenio
Photos: Jack Law
Video: Andy Wan
Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma

Ship Shaper: Angad Banga, Chief Operating Officer of The Caravel Group

After years in the finance field, Angad Banga joined the family fold at The Caravel Group. Today, as COO, he oversees an expansive portfolio that includes maritime shipping services, commodity trading and investment management, all with the hopes of preserving the company’s legacy for generations to come…

What was it like to grow up within the Banga family?

Well, my family moved from the UK to Hong Kong in 1985 when I was just 15-months-old so, for all intents and purposes, Hong Kong is very much my home. While there was an emphasis on education, my parents were always very supportive and allowed me to just be a kid and pursue my own interests. As most of our family were still in India, my fondest memories are of holidaying in my paternal grandparents’ home in Chandigarh and playing cricket on their front lawn with my cousins.

Were you always destined to join The Caravel Group, the family business?

Actually, there was never any real pressure to join as there was not really a family business per se. Although my dad, Harry Banga, was vice-chairman and the second-largest shareholder of the Noble Group, it was more an institutional organisation rather than a family-run enterprise.

In 2010, he stepped down from his own role with the Noble Group. Over the next few years, he took on some of the businesses he had started there, eventually bringing it all under The Caravel Group, which formally launched in 2013 / 2014. This has now become, as you have suggested, our family business.

And, today, what is the core offer of the company?

The Caravel Group has three primary areas of activity. The first is Caravel Maritime, which includes Fleet Management, our flagship operating business. This business was founded by my father under the Noble Group umbrella in 1994. We acquired Fleet Management from Noble in 2011 and brought it under The Caravel Group upon the establishment of the business. Today, we’re the second-largest ship management company in the world, operating more than 600 vessels across the world’s oceans. Caravel Maritime also includes Caravel Shipping, which provides in-house and third-party dry bulk commercial and chartering services, as well as maritime asset ownership.

Our second arm is Caravel Asset Management, with a primary focus on direct investments in global liquid markets including public equity and credit, across all industries. We also invest in alternative investments – mainly private equity and hedge funds – to diversify risks and sustain long-term return. We also run a direct private equity business, with a portfolio that includes India’s largest beauty omni-channel retailer, Nykaa, and Hong Kong’s largest craft brewery, Young Master Ales.

Finally, there is Caravel Resources, which trades industrial dry bulk commodities, with a focus on raw materials for steel making and power generation. As an industrial dry bulk supply chain manager we’re involved with moving and trading commodities from producers to consumers, including iron ore, thermal coal and metallurgical coke. Today, collectively, these businesses operate across 15 plus countries.

In addition, while we’re first and foremost a business, we’re also committed to giving back to society. Thus, we’ve established the Caravel Foundation, a Hong Kong-based charity with a focus on children’s education and healthcare.

As the Group’s Chief Operating Officer, what are some of your particular areas of responsibility?

In short, I see my role as being a strong steward for this organisation: to help Caravel maintain its strengths, to enhance our capabilities, and to grow. I feel like it’s my responsibility to grow and develop our leadership team with a clear vision, to drive The Caravel Group forward into the next generation.

That said, my day-to-day responsibilities are about ensuring the smooth running of the wider organisation. As the various arms of the Group are managed independently, part of my job is to liaise with the Chief Executives of those divisions from a corporate perspective. Part of my remit is also to focus on the future and to drive our strategic initiatives, whether that’s mergers and acquisitions, human resources or the exploration of new verticals.

What criteria do you look at when investing in third-party businesses?

I think one of the most important things to look at is “who”. While you’re backing a business, more critically you’re backing a person. Ultimately, believing in the CEO, the founder, and the leadership team, as well as having faith in what they can deliver, is paramount. We won’t invest if we don’t trust the founding team. At the same time, gauging the value proposition of the business and the problem they’re trying to solve is also important. In the case of Nykaa, for instance, we studied the demographics in India and the e-commerce and beauty trends across the world before agreeing to invest.

How has the group coped over the past 12 months, one of the most challenging times to ever be in business?

While 2020 will go down as an unprecedented year, a time organisations and individuals suffered a great deal, our business – thankfully – came through incredibly well. For our part, we provide employment to 1,000 people across the world, with a further 20,000 working on the ships we manage. That means that, roughly, 100,000 people are economically dependent on us, so it was very fortunate that we recorded 10-percent year-on-year growth in business volumes, with a net income growth of about 50 percent over that same period. Ultimately, it’s testament to the strength and resilience of our people that we expanded despite all the turbulence and uncertainty.

What are some of the unique aspects of running a family business?

From a personal point of view, I never thought I would be working with my dad. Having experienced it, though, I really treasure working with him and learning from him, particularly as there wasn’t really a family firm looming on the horizon while I was growing up, so all of this is something of a bonus.

From a professional perspective, one of the biggest strengths of a private family-run organisation is that because we don’t report to any shareholders, we can afford to take a more long-term approach and focus on the strategic direction of the company. This, in turn, affords greater overall stability.

The culture of a business like ours is also rather different as there’s an inherent level of trust and ownership at every tier. When you trust those around you, it breaks down the traditional barriers to building and running teams, allowing you to focus on generating ideas and executing solutions. Building lasting family organisations means you are more likely to put in the extra hours and effort needed to make it a success, which drives a different level of commitment altogether.

Looking back on your career, what do you see as the biggest hurdle you ever faced?

After I graduated from Dartmouth University with a degree in Economics, with honours, I spent two years working as investment banker for JP Morgan. Most of my career was spent with KKR prior to joining Caravel. In between, though, I was hired by Blackstone for a relatively short period. That was just before the global financial crisis and I’d been hired as part of a team briefed to grow Blackstone’s credit investing footprint in Asia. Unfortunately, once the crisis hit and the economy tanked, I found myself without a job. It was a terrible time. I was just 24, scared witless and had no real idea as to what to do next.

That difficult period taught me the importance of a number of things – empathy, resilience and the importance of hard work – that I still prioritise today, and which, I believe, have enhanced my leadership style. I also learnt the importance of focusing on those things that you can control, while not worrying too much about those beyond your remit. Finally, it taught me the merits of taking a chance on people. Soon after that, I was fortunate enough to be hired by KKR and it was one of the best things to happen to me. They took a chance on me. And that really changed my life.

Thank you.

Interview by: Tenzing Thondup
Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma
Photos: Jack Law

Pollymath: Elaine Yeh, operator of popular Shoku Japanese Binchotan Grill

Riding high on the success of her eatery, Shoku Japanese Binchotan Grill, restaurateur Elaine Yeh looks back on her F&B years and shares her vision for the year to come…

Everyone is talking about your restaurant, Shoku Japanese Binchotan Grill. Why do you think that is?

Well, that restaurant has been running in Repulse Bay for more than six years now and I’ve been involved from the very beginning, from concept and design of the restaurant to its current day-to-day operations. Part of our unique offer is that we have the biggest open-fire binchotan grill in Hong Kong – it’s basically a barbecue pit, where we use only the highest-quality Japanese charcoal. It burns at a really high, stable temperature, which cooks the food slowly, infusing it with the beautiful aroma of the binchotan. We also serve a range of seasonal foods, so the menu is always evolving in line with the available Japanese ingredients and latest culinary trends.

Prior to working in the restaurant sector, how was your career taking shape?

While I studied statistics in college, I was adamant that wasn’t for me. After I graduated, though, my dad – a doctor by training, but with a very entrepreneurial outlook – was impressed by an age management clinic in Nevada and wanted to bring that concept to Hong Kong, as he looked to set up the city’s first age management establishment. The first years of my career, then, were spent trying to make that plan a reality.

When you’re young, you kind of feel free to jump around and try new things, so, after that, I decided I wanted to get into events planning. Soon after I got involved in that particular sector, I met my future boss at Nike, eventually joining him as part of the company’s events and marketing team. While I enjoyed the travel that went with the job, my greatest sense of achievement came from being part of the company’s 2008 Beijing Olympics team. Although it involved a very hectic schedule, I got to meet an awful lot of VIPs and it was just a fun, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What then led you to join the F&B industry?

Actually, I was set on getting into the wedding planning industry, but marriage and two kids kind of derailed that plan. It was around that time that my husband and his friend decided to open a restaurant in Causeway Bay. It was one of the first Japanese omakase restaurants in the city and I started off assisting them on – what was to me – the most fun part of the business, coming up with PR campaigns and marketing materials, while managing all the social media activities. Two years later, we decided to open Shoku. Soon after, I took over the business as my husband had a great opportunity to go back into finance. I thought, at the time, as my kids were older, I could step into his position. I didn’t, however, think I would get quite so heavily involved. Suffice to say, it’s been a huge personal learning journey.

You must have experienced difficult times along the way…

One I will never forget is Halloween night 2016. I was in Tokyo treating my father to a holiday to celebrate his birthday, when, suddenly, I received 13 resignation letters from the staff at our restaurant. It turned out our former partner had poached the entire team with the intention of opening another outlet in the same building. They had been telling our regulars that we were closing down and moving, and the whole thing was a nightmare. I ended up spending the rest of the trip dealing with the fallout, negotiating with staff and trying to keep the team together. The trauma of that will stay with me forever.

But there have been good times that made up for that…

Yes, when we closed the Causeway Bay restaurant in 2019, most of the staff came to Shoku with me. We tried to keep as many people as we could. That Christmas, they gave me a painting of a girl facing some mountains, with the name of our former restaurant embedded in the imagery. It really touched me and made me feel like we were all in this together. It still hangs on our wall to this very day.

Last year, in something of a pivot, you also launched the Polly & Enzol ingestibles brand in Hong Kong. What was the thinking behind that?

Actually, I’ve always been into health and age management. As I said earlier, my first job after leaving college was setting up an age-management centre in Hong Kong. Part and parcel of this was the use of exercise, nutritional supplements and hormone management techniques as part of a three-pronged approach to age management.

As I’ve got the big “4-0” coming up next year, I thought it was a good time to look inwards, both physically and emotionally. As a result, I was consciously on the lookout for new opportunities within the wellness industry, which is when I came across the Polly & Enzol product range in Bali. Basically, they’re ingestible supplements manufactured by a Taiwanese company. Prior to formally relaunching them in Hong Kong, I’ve rebranded the range as Polly & Enzol.

What do you see as some of the unique appeal of Polly & Enzol?

Well, ‘Polly’ stands for ‘polyphenols’ and ‘Enzol’ is short for ‘enzymes’, and basically we harness the healing powers of these substances to boost overall health. Our star product is a lemon polyphenol concentrate, which we quadruple-ferment in order to release the active polyphenol and enzyme components, things that aren’t accessible when taken orally. This then aids in the rejuvenation of skin, while also helping to enhance the efficiency of the digestive system.

Although we’ve actually launched via Woman Boss [a Hong Kong-based online shopping platform] we haven’t officially gone mass-market yet. Right now, it’s getting great word-of-mouth, and hopefully, later this year, we can create a more formal structure for the brand and get into more retail outlets.

How have you come out of a turbulent 2020, and what lessons will you retain moving forward?

Even though last year seemed dire, it gave me the opportunity to look within, to slow down and have the time to focus on self-growth. I started to prioritise exercise, something that I now do every day. I also sought guidance from a number of life coaches as I looked to master time management and to untangle any unhealthy mental issues I may have had. Although, as yet, there’s no firm plan for the year ahead, these experiences have certainly helped me devise a blueprint for leading a better and healthier life.

Finally, if you won a US$10 million lottery prize tomorrow, what would be the first thing you would go out and buy?

I would invest in a farm or an orchard in Japan, perhaps somewhere in Hokkaido. That would allow me to become self-sufficient and perhaps even give me the opportunity to open a farm-to-table restaurant. That’s most definitely the dream.

Thank you.

Interview by: Tenzing Thondup
Photos: Jack Law
Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma
Wardrobe: The Outnet
Hair & Make-up: Hoby Wong
Venue: Shoku Japanese Binchotan Grill

Fit Frame of Mind: Get inspired with Hong Kong’s hottest fitness influencers

With the festive season over and the Lunar New Year festivities burgeoning on the horizon, it’s time to shed those extra pounds gained during Christmas and get back into shape. If you’re not sure where to start, these top Hong Kong fitness influencers might just be the inspiration you need to break past your boundaries and push your workout regime to new heights…

@emiwong_

Emi Wong is among the first of local Hong Kong influencers to have made a niche out of workout tutorials on YouTube. In addition to her variations of HIIT workouts, her down-to-earth personality and candor about her past battles with alcoholism and bulimia are what won over her loyal fan base of 3.64 million YouTube subscribers and 587k Instagram followers.

Fit Frame of Mind Get inspired with Hong Kong's hottest fitness influencers gafencu magazine fitness influencer — Image from @chaukeiyoga

@chaukeiyoga

Though breathing is an essential focus to practicing yoga, for Yogi and TedX speaker, Chaukei Ngai, breathing was abnormally difficult since the day she was born. Born two months premature and weighing merely two kilograms, she was diagnosed with chronic lung disease and spent several of her subsequent years in emergency rooms. Learning to gain control over her breathing and fear through yoga ultimately helped her conquer her respiratory problems and led her to open her own studio, YogaUp. Through her business as well as her strong digital influence, she continues to guide and inspire those still struggling with their own health and fitness issues on social media.

Fit Frame of Mind Get inspired with Hong Kong's hottest fitness influencers gafencu magazine benny liu — Image from @bennyliu_fitness

@bennyliu_fitness

Weekend warriors looking for motivation to make major transformations need not look much further than at Benjamin Liu, otherwise known as Benny Liu. The former bodybuilding champion has over 10 years of personal training experience under his belt, having won multi-national competitions and even ranked among the top five in Amateur Asia Olympia. Since then, Liu has co-founded One Personal Training, with his Instagram page showcasing his students all proudly flexing their achievements with coach Benny by their side.

Fit Frame of Mind Get inspired with Hong Kong's hottest fitness influencers gafencu magazine fitness influencer Cecilia Yeung Man-wai — Image from @cceciliayeung

@cceciliayeung

Celebrated local field athlete and Hong Kong high-jump record-breaker Cecilia Yeung Man-wai has been representing the national team since 2016. Her laid-back image and fun-loving personality complements the confidence and fortitude that has won her medals throughout her young career. An inspiration to many female youths, she encourages girls to not shy away from hard work, and to find success while breaking boundaries and challenging stereotypes.

@utahlee

Utah Lee is a Nike master trainer who embodies the athletic brand’s impetus motto, “Just do it”. She has been in the fitness industry for over two decades, initially as a model, then a dance instructor, and now is a master trainer for one of the most recognisable athletic brands in the world. When she’s not representing Nike in fitness conferences and media events, she is spreading her infectious energy with her daily cardio and dance workouts on her Instagram account.

Fit Frame of Mind Get inspired with Hong Kong's hottest fitness influencers gafencu magazine fitness influencer johnny tieu — Image from quacktieu

@quacktieu

Spartan Race veteran and pro athlete Johnny Tieu is a force to be reckoned with. The Nike trainer has raced in every mentionable endurance competition there is, breezing past the finish line as if it were a walk in the park. Looking to jump-start your own athletic aspirations? Perhaps a gander at this sporty influencer’s videos of weighted uphill and burpee sprints will help you find your own grit and determination…

Fit Frame of Mind Get inspired with Hong Kong's hottest fitness influencers gafencu magazine fitness influencer valerie lam — Image from @coffeesweat_

@coffeesweat_

Certified yoga instructor, Valerie Lam, is a well-known face across Hong Kong, not only for her television appearances but also thanks to her growing YouTube channel that is now backed by 1.29 million subscribers. Her 166k-strong Instagram platform also affords an impressive demonstration of her yoga abilities, where she also offers helpful fitness and yoga tips proven effective by the transformation photos her clients share on her page.

@ belinda_koo

Founder of the luxurious wellness brand, The Art of XYZ, the mother company of the eclectic spinning studio XYZ, Belinda Koo brought the two-wheel cardio revolution to the city, leading the way for other fitness studios to follow suit. After discovering her own health irregularities, she decided to enter the fitness industry while simultaneously continuing her career as a well-established managing director at a multi-national investment bank, an epitome of balancing career and well-being in living a healthy lifestyle.”

New generation steals the spotlight in Gafencu’s 2020 Power List 300

Our exclusive 2020 Gafencu Power List 300 encompasses a who’s-who of Hong Kong power players, including these four latest additions…

Lam, Eleanor

Media Asia, Assistant Vice-President

Daughter of Peter Lam, chairman of Lai Sun Development, and sister of fellow socialite Emily Lam-Ho, Eleanor is a stalwart of Hong Kong’s social scene. Turning her love of beauty into a career, the Instagram star can often be seen partnering with make-up brands like Dior and La Prairie. Her keen understanding of the entertainment industry also serves her well as Assistant Vice-President at Media Asia, the entertainment business owned by her father.

Liang Sai-cheong, Francis

The Spectre Group, Director

Son of shipping magnate David Liang Chong-hou, Francis Liang Sai-cheong is a director of The Spectre Group, and is the grandson of the late Liang Yuen-cheong, who served as a director of Hang Seng Bank and a vice chairman of property developer New World Development. The younger Liang was educated at Huron University in Ontario, Canada.

Chau-Kuok, Chelsea

SW1 Projects, Founder

Daughter of Justin Chau (owner and principal of investment company KRC Projects) and Reina Chau, Chelsea is a graduate of Stanford University as well as the Gemmological Institute of America. Having apparently inherited her entrepreneurial streak from her parents, she has founded her own jewellery company, SW1 Projects. Chelsea and her husband, Justin Kuok – a scion of the Shangri-La Group Kuoks – are blessed with two young sons.

Yim, Carmen

Life in Motion, Founder and Global Marketing Director

The stylish daughter of Stanley Yim, owner of electronic goods manufacturer SAS Dragon Holdings, Carmen Yim is a Director of Capital Markets at Knight Frank. The London School of Economics Graduate also founded Life in Motion, a company that utilises cutting-edge LED technology with modern designs to help maintain a sanitary home. A keen believer in giving back, she is also a member of the Youth Entrepreneur Committee of the HKBU Foundation.

Rare Beauty: Michelle Chen, founder of RARE SkinFuel

Truly proving that passion can be transformed into business success, Michelle Chen has channeled her lifelong love of skincare into the wildly popular RARE SkinFuel brand and spa…

Do you think the skincare business was always in the stars for you?

Yes, it was something I always knew I wanted to do. In fact, my love affair with skincare started when I was 13. At the time, I didn’t have the money to buy skincare products, so I used to sneak samples from my mother’s cabinets. I’ve always loved beautiful things and it just made sense to me at the time.

Ultimately, what was your route into the skincare sector?

Well, it wasn’t something I entered directly. I was very young when I first started working – just 16. Where I grew up in the United States, all the kids tended to be very independent. They all needed cars to get around and, in order to cover their running costs, they all got jobs while still teenagers. In university, I was studying for a Multimedia Design degree, while also working for a Silicon Valley start-up as a graphic designer. It was hard work but I was really lucky – I was earning a full salary, including stock options, while still a student.

Once I got my Bachelor’s, I knew I wanted to do something different, so I went back to study for a Master’s in Retail Merchandising. I then joined a buying office, which is where I learnt about retailing and merchandising. After that, I became Director of Product Development for the Velocity Source Group, where I learned how to turn an idea into a successful product. These experiences proved really enlightening and useful, and helped me launch RARE SkinFuel in just 15 months.

You mentioned RARE SkinFuel – how did that all come about?

As I said, I’ve been in love with beauty and skincare practically forever, always being a loyal customer of many of the major brands. I did, however, come to realise that I kept switching between them, never finding exactly the right products for me. In 2018, though, something just clicked. My daughter had turned four and I felt I needed to start working again. In particular, I decided I needed to create a business of my own.

I knew it had to be something I was passionate about. I thought I should focus on something I would personally use everyday, like spa or skincare products. This was what drove me initially when I set about establishing RARE SkinFuel, even before I had a business plan. While, at the time, a lot people were sceptical, I managed to turn my passion and energy into something that has really connected with a lot of people.

Essentially, what is the brand all about?

The thinking behind RARE SkinFuel is to reveal and not conceal. I realise, though, that many women are afraid to show their own skin because they feel they have lots of flaws and use a wide range of products to cover them up – largely because I had the same problem.

After I gave birth to my daughter, at first, my skin was terrible. At the time, I was also scared that any products I might use could harm my daughter, something that really undermined my confidence. As a result, I wanted to create a line that focused more on skincare and less on any cosmetic concerns. Basically, I was interested in items that women could use to reveal their beauty, rather than to conceal any perceived blemishes.

What do you think sets it apart from other skincare brands?

I honestly feel there aren’t any brands that are truly our competitors. Not only is our skincare line unique in utilising its particular array of all-natural ingredients, but all the processing and manufacturing is done through cold-pressing, which preserves the ingredients while optimising their active components via cellular extraction.

Throughout, we monitor the temperature with precise tracking. We then air-freight our products in climate-controlled environments, storing them in temperature-controlled facilities to ensure they yield the maximum benefit. We really baby them at every stage.

At present, we have 10 products, which I call the ‘beauty kitchen’. I own all the formulas and played a huge part in their creation. They are all made in an Australian lab, which is run by a German scientist. Every item featuring only all-natural ingredients, allowing them to be mixed and matched with no adverse effect. While very few brands recommended mixing eye serums with mask powders, for example, it’s something we are confident in promoting.

What does an average day look like for you?

Oh, it’s very hectic. I have a four-year-old girl and, though I’m really fortunate in having a lot of help, I still consider myself a full-time mum. So, I wake up early in order to spend time with her, before heading off for any meetings and the office during the day. Even in pre-Covid times, I did my best to be at home when she finished school, often working from my home office so I could physically be there for her. After eating dinner and putting her to bed, I then get back to work, typically not finishing until 2-3am.

What new projects are currently preoccupying you?

Well, we just opened a new RARE SkinFuel spa at The Landmark a month ago, which was very exciting. In 2021, we want to maintain this location as a concept boutique spa, while focusing on opening a new luxury spa with even more expansive services. We’re also looking to open in several other locations, such as residential complexes, allowing us to expand our footprint in the city, while we also hope to distribute our products via more local retailers.

Can you dispel some common skincare myths?

One misconception I used to have was that organic products aren’t as potent as their manufactured counterparts. Indeed, it wasn’t until I went to Australia to identify suitable laboratories for RARE SkinFuel that I found out I was wrong. The scientists I spoke to proved to me that, in fact, natural ingredients, when concentrated, are actually every bit as effective as synthetic substances, with the added benefit that they don’t cause irritation. Another common misconception is that oil is the best way to combat dry skin. In fact, it’s the active ingredients that preserve moisture, not the oily base.

If you weren’t in skincare, what else do you think you might be doing?

Well, as a lover of beautiful things, I guess I’d be in fashion. I actually studied for a Master’s at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) in LA for my Master’s…

Aside from work, what else stirs your passions?

Well, I’m a longtime supporter of Hong Kong Dog Rescue and also Change A Young Life, a Chinese organisation that fundraises for underprivileged children, encouraging them to learn more. Normally, there’s a lot of charity events, but Covid’s changed all that, but we still donate products to help with fundraising for such organisations as the Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation.

What lessons have you taken away from the past 12 months, a year that has been particularly difficult for many.

At the beginning, I was really scared. Now, a year later, I realise we can’t live in fear. While we need to protect ourselves, life has to go on. I’ve always believed that it’s the obstacles we overcome that make us stronger, so I’ve come to embrace challenges as learning experiences.

How do you unwind?

My work is, honestly, my hobby. Although many say the same thing, for me there’s nothing more relaxing than sampling my products and using my spa for a full pampering session…

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

I’d want to be able to clone myself. I have so many responsibilities, all of which pull me in different directions, it’d be great to have a separate version of me for each – particularly one for my daughter and another for work.

If you were marooned on an island, which three things would you most want to have with you?

My daughter and my dog, definitely. They’re my rocks and I wouldn’t go anywhere without them. After that, I would say my bed and bedsheets, because that’s my sanctuary.

Finally, tell us something that many people may not know about you…

I’m actually a great cook. I don’t really cook now, so few are aware of my culinary talents. My signature dish is a Taiwanese beef noodle soup.

Thank you.

Interview by: Tenzing Thondup

Photos: Neville Lee

Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma

Make-up & Hair: Anthony Sum

Venue: RARE SkinFuel Spa

Renowned local artist Michael Lam on his HSBC Rainbow Lions statues and more…

Renowned for his groundbreaking surrealist artwork and being the mastermind behind HSBC’s “Rainbow Lions” statues, Hong Kong-based artist Michael Lam is not only one of the city’s brightest artists, but is also among its leading crusaders for LGBTQ rights.

Can you give us a glimpse of your childhood?

I grew up in rather straitened circumstances and didn’t have the easiest upbringing. My family ran a food hawker business in Hong Kong when I was a kid and I would get up at 5 o’clock every morning to help him set up for the day before heading off to school. After class, I would be back helping my parents pretty much every day.

How influenced were you by your subsequent education?

I attended local schools and never actually took any art courses or pursued a university degree. I’m very much a self-trained artist, with everything I’ve accomplished coming from research and personal experience. I feel that being educated in the arts – while a worthy pursuit for people looking to understand its history or hoping to take up a career in art procurement or something similar – would have hindered my own spiritual growth and artistic endeavours. Over the course of my career, my works have undeniably evolved and shifted. This, though, is a reflection of my personal journey rather than being down to the impact of other artists on my style.

Do you see yourself as having always been destined for an artistic career?

Well, I was interested in art and design from early age. In fact, I originally dreamt of becoming a designer. Later I discovered that came with many restrictions and the need to stick to particular guidelines, something I believed would only hamper my creative vision. Ultimately, I chose to immerse myself in the field of fine art field, which allowed me to focus solely on bringing my artistic designs to life. I didn’t jump right into an art career though. In fact. prior to becoming a full-time artist, I worked in sales as well as in product merchandising. It wasn’t until after the SARS outbreak, around 2003, that I decided to take the plunge.

Where do you find inspiration?

It comes, largely, from my subconscious. I use colours and ink to transform my mind’s fantasy world into surreal works of art.

How would you describe your artistic style?

My creations are mainly abstract in concept and feel, tending to combine Chinese calligraphy and art to create truly surrealist works. In this, I was hugely influenced by the works of the renowned Spanish artist Salvador Dali, having long been very attracted to the bizarre yet striking images that characterise his art.

“I use colours and ink to transform my mind’s fantasy world into surreal works of art”

What are your proudest accomplishments to date?

I’m honestly blown away by the great reception any of my pieces have garnered. Of all my works, though, I’d say I’m proudest of two in particular. The first is my role in the rebranding of Cathay Pacific’s inflight magazine, Discovery. It amazes me that my artwork fronts the publication and is seen by people from all across the world. Another highlight for me was being commissioned to create statues for HSBC’s Rainbow Lions campaign. My statues, which I crafted in line with the principles of feng shui, stand as symbols of inclusivity and unity – causes I hold dear to my heart – and have been installed in Hong Kong and in a number of other locations around the world.

What are your current projects and which particularly excite you?

A number of my latest creations are now on show at the Jade Gallery, courtesy of an arrangement made by my agent, Youmei Zhen. Recently, I ‘ve also been undertaking bespoke work on a range of lifestyle accessories, including wine bottle carriers and high fashion items. This has seen me working for clients on an ad hoc basis, allowing me to ensure that each unique statement piece exactly matches an individual purchaser’s tastes.

You are very prominent supporter of the cause of LGBTQ rights in Hong Kong. Where do you see the city ranking on the more global scene in terms of tolerance and enlightened views?

It’s no secret that, while Hong Kong is a diverse society, it’s still somewhat more conservative than many other cosmopolitan cities. At present, the issue of LGBTQ rights still has a certain stigma, with many individuals treated unfairly because of what is perceived as their non-conventional identity, whether that’s at work, socially or even by their own family members.

For me, the best way to improve this situation is to encourage everyone – no matter who they are – to educate themselves with regard to LGBTQ culture. This is the only way they will gain a more inclusive and diversified mind frame that will, in turn, lead to an end to pre-conceived notions and discrimination at every level.

You are also known for donating works of art to various charities…

Yes, despite that, I don’t really see myself as a philanthropist, partly because I’m not wealthy enough to qualify for such a title. Essentially, I’m an ordinary artist who feels a need to give back to society. I feel that there are many people in Hong Kong who require help, as well as many causes that are deserving of extra support. Within my current capabilities, I do my part to give back to society by donating artworks and raising funds for various causes.

How do you choose which charities to support?

I’m always open to helping whichever organisation approaches me, as long as they’re doing something worthwhile. In terms of causes I personally hold dear, obviously anything related to ensuring LGBTQ equality or enhancing the rights of sexual minorities has a particular appeal – that’s why crafting the Rainbow Lions for HSBC meant so much to me.

Given that my family has suffered hugely on account of cancer – and I had personal experience of battling the disease a decade ago – supporting related research, as well as the provision of proactive care for patients, is another cause close to my heart. As is AIDS research, something else I’ve been involved with fundraising for.

Away from all that, what do you like to do with your free time?

To be honest, while I occasionally like hanging out with friends, I’m not a very social person by any stretch of the imagination. I find, for me, one of the most relaxing things is to just sit by myself, tucked away in the corner of a hotel bar, watching people interacting around me.

If you could meet any person, past or present, who would it be and why?

If I could go back in time, I would love to meet my mother and grandmother again. They were such an integral part of my upbringing and played key roles in shaping the person I am today. I miss them a lot and treasure the great advice they gave me on how to behave in life.

Finally, what’s left on your personal bucket list?

I really want to open a foundation geared to supporting the elderly in Hong Kong, particularly those with serious health conditions. I feel that, despite the government’s best efforts, the city still doesn’t have the infrastructure to help the most vulnerable members of our society. Given my own experience of my mother’s battle with cancer, I want to do everything I can to ensure older people have the support and care they need.

Thank you.

Interview by: Tenzing Thondup

Photos: Jack Law

Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma

Wardrobe: SPY Henry Lau

Venue: Jade Gallery Company

A look at the newest faces in Gafencu’s 2020 Power List 300

Our eagerly anticipated 2020 Gafencu Power List 300 is a directory of the biggest names in Hong Kong. From the top honchos in the white-collar corporate world and fashion moguls to the key influencers and movers and shakers in the city, our list comprises only the crème de la crème of society. In case you missed it, here are some of the latest leaders who made the cut.

Cheung, Andrew

Hong Kong Court of Final Appeals, Incumbent Chief Justice

Hong Kong-born Justice Andrew Cheung read law at the University of Hong Kong and then at Stanford University before being called to the bar in 1985. Following appoints to the Supreme Court of Singapore and various roles throughout Hong Kong’s legal circuit, Cheung will be replacing Geoffrey Ma as the Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal on 11 January 2021. He is married with three children.

Chiu, Josephine

Dorsett Hospitality, Vice President of Procurement

The youngest daughter of property magnate David Chiu and his wife Nancy, Josephine Chiu has joined sister Winnie at Dorsett Hospitality, an arm of her father’s multinational conglomerate, Far East Consortium International. She complete stints at Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Bank before joining the family business in 2009, and as Vice President of Procurement, the King’s College alum now oversees countless hotels across the world.

Eu, Richie

Eu Yan Sang International, Managing Director, Mergers & Acquisitions

Previously a Mergers and Acquisitions associate in the private equity field, Richie Eu, a fifth generation scion of the owning family of Eu Yan Sang, joined the family business in 2013. The Babson College graduate was appointed the Managing Director of Mergers and Acquisitions last year, and he now oversees a range of M&A deals that can generate profit for the organisation. He hopes to make the business more accessible to younger generations.

Koo, Belinda

XYZ Founder

Prominent in Hong Kong’s health and wellness industry through boutique fitness studio The Art Of XYZ, which she set up, Belinda Koo is also a well-established banker and is a managing director since 2005 at UBS, the Swiss multinational investment bank and financial services company. Educated in Canada with an economics degree from the University of Toronto and a Master’s in business from the University of Western Ontario, Koo is also credited for establishing One Ten Foundation.