Fashion Conscience: Vipop founder Lenia Pérez radiates sustainability vibes while joyfully revealing her second pregnancy

Lenia Pérez is one of the best-dressed women in the city, in part because she’s so willing to try everything. “I’ve prepared a total of 19 outfits for us to play around with, but I’m not sure if some of them still fit me,” laughs the Latin American fashion entrepreneur, rubbing her four-month baby bump with just a slight touch of embarrassment.

It’s an unconventional pregnancy announcement – and a surprising moment of awkwardness for someone who photographs so well and telegraphs such confidence. Whether she’s going to the gym or the hottest parties, her style is obsessively chronicled.

Embarrassment, though, is different from regret. “I’m never afraid to try anything,” affirms Pérez, who is thrilled to be expecting her second child with husband Ziad Korban. “I think that just goes to show that there’s a moving evolution in my style. It just keeps growing” – like her baby bump – “which is kind of how I want to be in all areas of life.”

*Black Flora Deep V Maxi Dress by Daniella Batlle Earrings by Vipop*

It takes a certain sort of boldness and a certain level of shimmering magnitude to establish your own time zone, especially while being pregnant. Yet the co-founder and CEO of Vipop, a Hong Kong-based sustainable fashion brand, has done just that. It’s exactly 8:45 am on a typical Hong Kong gloomy Monday, yet Pérez is all set for a day of photoshoot and interview. Her ease and her vibrant full smile suggest this is all very normal and time really is just a construct.

From the get-go, she also expresses her opinion on maternity wear: “I’m hoping that we are able to redefine what’s considered ‘decent’ for pregnant women. I am proud of my body for the amazing things it’s doing right now. Minus the morning sickness, I think I am at my happiest. Heels during pregnancy? Go for it. Who made such rules anyways?”

Sustainable values

As a self-confessed collector, Pérez travels to fashion shows across South and Central America in search of resort-wear designers to represent, pinpointing those whom she believes will appeal to Asian customers. What started as an internet business with co-founder and fellow Venezuelan Fabiana González, now occupies a cosy white shop called Artezano by Vipop and is reaching customers in the US and Europe.

Her parents are artisans, so she has always liked fashion and handicrafts. Additionally, clothing created by Latin American designers, who historically use sustainable weaving and dyeing methods, felt appropriate for a market where ethical consciousness is growing in importance.

“Vipop brings together a community of international designers making bags, jewellery and clothing in unique designs like the ones I’m wearing,” she says. “Our designers take care of the ethical or eco-friendly values behind the pieces and we also take care of the value of each piece. So it’s this community we’re building in the new fashion industry. We’re offering new ways to be sustainable. It’s not just ‘sustainable’; it can be very fun too.”

Vipop builds partnerships based on sustainability practice. Designers and collaborators are chosen by the effort they put into one or more of the following clean fashion criteria: handmade, locally produced, carbon neutral, use of vegan or organic materials, low waste, longevity, recycled materials and fair wage.

Damage limitation

“It’s very important to put attention to how the pieces we buy are actually made, who is making them and how it affects our environment, the community around us and the planet, because we can see so much damage in the world from the fashion industry. This is something very special for me and all the team, and this is why we selected this subject to build a fashion brand and e-commerce platform.”

*Black Cher dress cut pleated skirt with top by Nabel Martins*

This combination of focused strategy with faith in humanity and the occasional flight of fancy seems a winning formula, especially when matched by an unstinting gusto for whatever challenges her fashion career or an impending new addition to the family will throw at her.

Calming vibes

Despite her hypermodern appearance, not to mention the permanent arts on her skin, her style is very traditional. As seen on her Instagram, whether it’s a friend’s wedding or a trip abroad, she creates distinct ‘vibes’ (to use her favourite phrase) for each occasion. Indeed, her process is true fashion-icon behaviour.

“We’re still right on time. I cannot emphasise more the importance of working with the right people. It will really get the job done and produce output that you want to have,” she reflects as she changes for look no.9.

Pérez seems unfazed by the fame in the fashion world she is currently experiencing. She is seemingly without ego: calm and reflective with a slightly starry professional glow that makes her the ability to inhabit someone else’s mind look easy. During and in between takes, she is compellingly unselfconscious.

“But that’s the work of it,” she shares. “In reality, you have to be aware of what you’re feeling, what the team in the room is feeling. Once the camera clicks, you have this third level of awareness – your mark, the light and which way you should be facing. And it’s like you are constantly having to juggle those three things the whole time. She pauses and adds knowingly: “Pretty much like pregnancy huh?”

Dressed to express

Fashion for her is about the moments of pure enjoyment, of just letting go to the point that she can be surprised. It represents the most acute version of fun. “Which is why I love it so much. It’s my playground. I love it,” she admits giddily.

*Emiliana pants and bared back top in paillette by Nabel Martins*

“Clothes allow us to show off our unique personalities. Many of us care about how we seem in public, which is cool and just right. But some of us experience pressure to follow the newest trends in fashion,” she reminds, throwing in a note of caution.

Mother load

One trend she is happy to embrace is her pregnancy. These days, the word ‘Mother’, without the preceding article, is present everywhere, as not just a regular word but a colloquial term and part of this generation’s slang; fans, brands and occasionally even mums themselves use it. It is also affectionately applied to prominent women who have a devoted following. And Pérez is surely mothering the fashion game.

*Blue one sleeve cut out dress by Baobab Accessories by Vipop*

“My body is going through so many changes again, but I ’ve grown to respect it so much that I look past the physical. I fully embrace it for serving a much deeper purpose, something far bigger than myself and anything I ever gave it credit for. I’m so grateful for, and amazed by, what my body is capable of,” she states, flashing a smile.

At the end of our shoot, she swaps her stilettos for platformed boots, saying with a wink: “It’s time to be more comfortable.” Whatever tomorrow brings, Lenia Pérez will have the right attitude – and look – to take it on.

Interview, Text & Art Direction: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Videographer: Jack Fontanilla Venue: Qura Bar – Regent Hong Kong Brands: Daniella Batlle, Baobab, Nabel Martins and Vipop

Healing Hands: The tick-tock masters who can repair all parts of your beloved watch

A watch is a very personal item and the journey to owning it can take several months. If it falters, however, modifications or repairs can be difficult, as only a handful of shops offer bespoke servicing. Watch restoration is an opportunity to bring a beloved model back to life and onto your wrist. We make the job of finding a master watchmaker to repair your wrist reward easier by curating a list of premium service centres in the city.

Classic Watch Repair

Based in Central, Classic Watch Repair is a one-stop service centre with more than 20 years of experience. The team is adept at repairing and restoring any timepiece, both mechanically and aesthetically. Besides standard watch repairs, they specialise in reviving exterior parts that are not generally covered by a brand service.

Michael Young, founder of Classic Watch Repair, is a vintage watch restoring legend. A mechanical engineer by training, he began his watch ‘fixation’ as a collector of Rolex models 40 years ago. Frustrated that Rolex wouldn’t repair or restore the cases, bracelets, dials or hands of his treasured timepieces, Young learned to do it himself. His meticulous restoration work and vintage-watch servicing have earned him a solid reputation around the world and the nickname ‘the Rolex bracelet magician’. classicwatchrepair.com

MisterChrono

Over the past 10 years, MisterChrono has made its mark through in-depth knowledge of the watchmaking industry and partnerships with watch repair and service specialists in Paris, Hong Kong and Singapore. These masters of high-quality workmanship have the necessary tools to carry out both routine maintenance and minor repairs as well as a complete overhaul of your watch. Moreover, if you are looking for specific advice, they will be able to answer your questions and guide you.

Giving an initial analysis and repair quotation as soon as you enter the shop in Central, the team offers a wide range of services from changing a battery and replacing the crown to fixing the hands or polishing the case. They recommend mechanical watches receive a full service every five years. This begins with the dismantling of the watch and the movement, followed by a thorough ultrasonic cleaning and inspection of all components and the replacement of any damaged or worn parts. The movement is then reassembled using the manufacturer’s specified oils and lubricants with a full calibration of the regulating mechanism. The watch case and bracelet are cleaned, and if requested, can be polished and refurbished. The service concludes with rigorous quality control and testing for 72 hours – including for pressure- and water resistance – and a final visual inspection of the watch. misterchrono.hk

Oriental Watch Company

As well as being a leading watch retailer, Oriental Watch Company offers a professional watch service experience. Designed and run by accordance with Swiss and German watchmaking standards, its in-house repair workshop in Sheung Wan is equipped with cutting-edge instruments including a water-resistance testing machine, a watch-movement analyser, the Chronoscope S1 high-quality watch-testing instrument and the Cyclomotion watch winder.

This abundance of outstanding hardware is utilised by staff with an average of 20 years of experience in watch repairing, with the majority having previously worked for haute horlogerie brands. Their most experienced master watchmaker has served in the industry for more than four decades. All potential restoration projects will be fully evaluated and discussed with the client before work commences. orientalwatch.com

Hong Kong Ruigang Watch Group

At the Tsim Sha Tsui flagship store of Hong Kong Ruigang Watch Group, trained watchmakers set about the task of lovingly restoring vintage timepieces. A thorough inspection of the watch movement identifies any damaged or worn parts, and should a new or replacement part not be available, they will refurbish the old part or machine a new part from scratch. Their dedicated dial department offers varying degrees of dial restoration, from adding luminosity to hour indexes and hands to repainting the entire watch face.

Hong Kong Ruigang also specialises in professional polishing and finishing to a watch’s original factory specifications. Going beyond normal polishing on a buffing machine, their technical polishing service using specialised tools results in a crisp edge that, in essence, is a reshaping of the case. For owners of popular models like Rolex or Omega, replacing scratched or damaged sapphire crystal isn’t usually a problem, but for vintage, bespoke and small- production watches, precious new glass can be custom-made to fit. They also undertake steel- and gold-band restorations by carefully removing each link and rebuilding it before re-assembling the bracelet. mbwxzx.hk

Prices for the services described here vary according to the intricacy of the restoration and the bespoke technicalities required by individual timepieces. Consultations can be booked online, although walk-in clients are also entertained. These watch-repair companies are, in short, trusted doctors for your cherished chronometers.

Madam Butterflies: Novel Fineries’ founder June Lau frames fading art heritage into new glories

First, she won a scholarship to study product design engineering at Loughborough University in England, and it was there that she tasted early success – landing a James Dyson Foundation bursary to help get the medical device she conceived up and running. Having founded a product design consultancy, Above Blue Design, back in Hong Kong in 2015, her wearable art company, Novel Fineries, sprang into life the following year after she won a design competition held by luxury retailer Lane Crawford.

The Novel Fineries flagship store is now ensconced in a wing of the luxurious Peninsula Hotel, from where she talks animatedly about how her roots nurtured her love for the beauty and aesthetics of products and accessories.

Sleep saver

That Lau has achieved so much just a decade out of university is perhaps down to oodles of self- confidence, which she attributes to going off to boarding school aged just eight. She believes the experience toughened her up.

At Loughborough, she learnt how to design products as a whole, from coding the internal electronics, to building mould tools for mass production, to learning about aesthetics and the research process. Flashing one of her radiant smiles, she admits that possibly part of the attraction of this career was wanting to “save the world” with her designs. Her award-winning final- year design project was a product that positively conditions people with severe eczema not to scratch during sleep.

Design over fashion

Emanating verve and fresh elegance in a fetching green outfit, the youthful entrepreneur describes herself as a “go-getter” who loves to travel and absorb other cultures as she knows this is potentially a rich seam of artistic creativity.

Born in New York City and educated in the UK, Lau has done fashion-design jobs around the world, but found the fashion lifecycle too short and not sustainable; the lure of product design was more compelling.

After graduation, she returned to her family roots in Hong Kong. Within a couple of years, she was teaching CAD (computer-aided design) while working part-time with Above Blue, designing products for big brands as well as startups.

Art in the pocket

It was her independent-minded spirit and willingness to explore new artistic avenues ingrained since childhood that played a massive part in her big breakthrough – the creation of Novel Fineries.

At the time she was travelling to China a lot to visit factories. “One time in Suzhou, I saw a group of ladies on the side of the street doing double- sided embroidery and soon became friends with them,” she says, explaining that she was fascinated by the intricacy of their handiwork, a time-honoured technique that produces identical stitching strokes on both sides of the silk.

Thinking it would make an original gift for her then-boyfriend, she asked the women to make a piece in her own design. It featured butterflies in the form of pocket art.

Soon after, Lau sent these embroidered butterflies to the Lane Crawford Creative Call Out – a competition for young local designers. “We could go and pitch our product to the buyers and get a chance to be selected and sold in their stores,” she says. “I took along this pocket art and we won. And the next thing I know, they wanted to put our products in their stores and the Hong Kong government included us in design tradeshows abroad. So that was when Novel Fineries really started.”

Boyfriend butterflies

Each piece of her pocket art represents a butterfly species through the use of exquisite embroidery and the exact colour of paint, with every detail of the insect painstakingly replicated including the pattern of the veins and the velvety-fur textures on its wings. “Each species can only be produced once because the double-sided embroidery can only be done by one person, and I do the silk hand- painting myself,” she notes.

“To mimic the veins and transparency of the butterfly wings to the best of my ability, I studied to become a lepidopterist, learning where they feed and how they migrate. Each butterfly has its own origin story to share and its unique traits in nature.”

Novel Fineries’ first collection of Pocket Art spans 50 species of Amazonian butterflies. “I used to love the saying ‘You give me butterflies’ [when thinking of a loved one],” says Lau of their inspiration. “This is the whole concept of the pocket art. It is worn on the left-hand side of the suit over the heart. And so, as a gift, it’s a little resemblance of my love in a suit jacket.”

She regards Pocket Art as one of her best creations to date. “It is a piece that has no lifecycle, it follows no trend; it is a symbol of how Novel Fineries blossomed in colour and the finest materials,” she says.

It serves as a contemporary showcase for Su embroidery, a 2,000-year-old heritage art form originating from Suzhou, China, renowned for the elegance, rich colour and variety of its silk-thread stitching. This double-sided stitching process is also used for the Pin Art collection of handmade butterflies astride a gold pin that fastens behind the lapel.

Heritage mission

“China possesses so much knowledge and hidden artisans in heritage art forms and I became obsessed with searching for lost art and these people who mastered the craft,” says Lau, who reveals that 30 percent of the company’s profits is given to training the next generation of artisans.

In some ways, it has become her mission to preserve fading art forms around the world. “Each piece at Novel Fineries is a union of lost heritage craft integrated with my design ideas. Much of the craft we use is diminishing, lost even through time.”

Art and nature

All of Novel’s designs are handmade, handcrafted and unique. They are influenced by nature and integrate heritage art forms. “The Obi Knot uses untouched silks from 200-300 years ago, the threads were hand-loomed and tied by Obi masters in Kyoto. The Serpentine Knot uses Italian leather-braiding techniques, and the fine jewellery is hand-carved from wax,” she says of her collections of bow ties and snake-head-tipped braids that can adorn the neck or waist.

Lau creates a world of beauty and magic that comes to life. She is particularly inspired by butterflies and snakes because they have the ability to morph and transform into a stronger self.

No doubt there are many more chapters of inspired creations to come from Novel Fineries. “Novel means a book, right? So, a book of many chapters, and in each chapter, we talk about a different heritage art form,” she states proudly. “I hope Novel Fineries is a storybook that brings joy to the people who read it and wear it.”

Interview and Text by: Neil Dolby Art Direction: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Videographer: Jack Fontanilla Venue: The Peninsula Boutique & Cafe Brands: Magda Butrym, Safiyaa, Chanel & Off-White

Encore Values: Get front and centre for the Hong Kong Arts Festival, shaper of the cultural landscape

The Hong Kong Arts Festival (HKAF) has been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural scene for over half a century. Celebrating its 52nd edition this year, it continues to captivate audiences with diverse and world-class performances. The month-long cultural feast will see more than 1,400 outstanding international and local artists delivering over 150 performances of music, theatre, dance, opera and more. Additionally, Festival Plus as well as outreach and education events account for another 350 engaging arts activities.

The festival proper begins with the classics, as the Bavarian State Opera performs Richard Strauss’s 1912 opera Ariadne auf Naxos on 22 February, and closes on 22 March with a modern ballet, A Sigh of Love, devised by a Sino- French creative team for the Shanghai Ballet. As Kingman Lo, Vice-Chairman of the Hong Kong Arts Festival Society, says: “The 52nd edition of the HKAF will continue our legacy of offering a broad spectrum of the world’s best artists and performances, enticing the Hong Kong audience with an irresistible blend of timeless classics and groundbreaking new works.”

One of the key highlights of this year’s festival is the appearance of five-time Grammy Award- winner Angelique Kidjo. Over the course of a remarkable career spanning more than 40 years, the powerhouse diva has introduced the world to the essence of Africa. For her outstanding musical accomplishments and efforts, she was most recently granted the Polar Music Prize. With the promise of an evening filled with joyful music and the beautiful sounds of the African diaspora, Kidjo’s Mother Nature tour is now making its way to Hong Kong.

HKAF Executive Director Flora Yu also underscores the importance of showcasing contemporary pieces at the annual festival. “We make it our mission to introduce to Hong Kong audiences a fascinating line-up of daring and innovative new works which hold the promise of becoming canonical works of tomorrow,” she says. “In addition, we continue to present a variety of brilliant local works featuring some of the best Hong Kong artists.”

By putting the future on the canvas of the past, Van Gogh in Me is an immersive audio-visual experience that significantly pushes the limits of the conventional concert experience. Van Gogh and Klimt’s brushstrokes are transformed into a state-of-the-art performance experience by the Netherlands Chamber Choir’s resonant purity of sounds and emotions combined with real-time technology.

Back at Full Volume

This year’s festival marks a return to form after several lean cultural years that left Hong Kong arts enthusiasts starved of live international performances. “We are pleased to be able to present our 52nd Festival on a large scale after emerging from a three-year pandemic and staging the previous 51st Festival in semi-recovery mode,” notes Yu. This ramp-up is reflected in the HKAF’s overall budget which is anticipated to be about HK$150 million in the 2023-2024 financial year.

The festival has historically relied heavily on fundraising, and its goal for 2024 is that contributions and pledges from institutional and individual donors and benevolent foundations will account for about 48% of its total revenue. The Hong Kong Jockey Club, for example, has consistently supported the event since its inception. A further 25% of funds will come from the box office, while a recurring subvention of HK$18.89 million from the Hong Kong Government equates to about 12% of the yearly revenue. A possible additional government grant to match donations and sponsorship, and other revenue streams will comprise the remaining 15%.

Lasting Legacy

The Hong Kong Arts Festival was founded in 1973 with the aim of showcasing exceptional artistic talent from around the world while nurturing local creativity. Over the years, it has become one of Asia’s premier arts events, consistently attracting renowned international artists and troupes and earning a reputation for excellence.

By bringing together artists from diverse cultures and genres, the festival has fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas and artistic collaborations. It has encouraged local artists to push boundaries and experiment with new forms of expression, leading to the emergence of unique and innovative performances. Moreover, the festival’s influence extends beyond its annual program to actively engage with the community. Through educational initiatives, workshops and masterclasses, it nurtures the next generation of artists and cultivates an appreciation for the arts among students and the general public. These efforts have contributed to the growth of Hong Kong’s artistic ecosystem and the development of a discerning audience.

Expanded Reach

Running alongside the main performances is the Festival Plus program that aims to enrich the experience of culture buffs from all walks of life. A diverse range of activities like talks, masterclasses and meet-the-artist sessions in performance venues and community locations boosts audience engagement. Highlights this year include a backstage tour of the Ariadne auf Naxos production as well as a fun-filled exhibition titled Unboxing Chinese Opera. In addition, there are outreach events and education programmes targeted at students to foster the younger generation’s interest in, and knowledge of, the arts.

Founded in 1992, the Young Friends of the Hong Kong Arts Festival initiative offers a variety of seminars, lectures and backstage visits to full-time students up to the age of 25, reaching a remarkable 820,000 budding arts lovers thus far. Members of Young Friends can experience two chosen performances and rehearsals during the festival.

In an effort to make the arts more accessible, the HKAF has expanded its presence across multiple venues throughout Hong Kong. Beyond the traditional theatre spaces, performances are held in parks, community centres and heritage sites. This approach aims to bring the arts closer to the public, breaking down barriers and reaching audiences who may not typically attend formal concerts or plays.

Embracing the Future

Organisers are focused on ensuring HKAF’s continued relevance and accessibility to the public by embracing new technologies and formats. Key initiatives include expanding the festival’s digital presence and incorporating digital elements like virtual reality experiences and immersive installations into its programming. Live streaming, on-demand performances and interactive online platforms enable individuals who may be unable to attend in person or prefer the convenience of experiencing the arts from their own homes to engage with the festival offerings.

With a storied past and a vision for the future, the Hong Kong Arts Festival continues to shape the artistic landscape of Hong Kong. As the curtain rises on the 52nd edition, it remains an indispensable platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, exciting audiences and inspiring generations to come.

What’s on? Things to do this February in Hong Kong

This month features some fantastic things to do – savour the spectacular Lunar New Year fireworks or soak up the carnival atmosphere of the night parade and so much more!

Lunar New Year Fireworks

Celebrate the Chinese New Year in style by watching the iconic fireworks display against the unforgettable backdrop of Victoria Harbour. The Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations has justifiably gained a reputation as one of the best synchronised and spectacular fireworks displays anywhere in the world. With the pyrotechnics released from barges in the centre of the harbour, the best views can be gleaned from waterfront vantage points spanning Central to Causeway Bay and over in Tsim Sha Tsui. Some hotels and restaurants, the Observation Wheel and even up on the Peak also offer excellent vistas.

When: Until 11 Feb

Where: Victoria Harbour

How much: Free

For more information: discoverhongkong.com

Flower Markets

During the week preceding Chinese New Year, flower fairs are dotted around Hong Kong to service residents busily decorating their homes or seeking gifts for friends and family. The main market is located in Victoria Park, and evenings are the best time to visit and experience the electric vibe of the festival of flowers. Join the crowds on this traditional saunter past stalls of blooms and orange trees, browsing the displays and soaking up the intoxicating scents of the myriad exotic flowers. Stalls around the city will sell every imaginable flower and fruit.

When: 4-10 Feb

Where: Victoria Park and elsewhere

How much: Free

For more information: fehd.gov.hk

Night Parade

On the very first day of the Chinese New Year enjoy a wonderful festival of fun as the Night Parade floating carnival meanders through the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui. Sponsored by Cathay International, the festive procession will start at 8 pm from the Cultural Centre piazza and wind its way to its final destination at the Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel and Towers. The Year of the Dragon celebrates that iconic creature of nobility and good luck, and the theme for this year’s parade is ‘Good Fortune All Around Hong Kong’.

When: 10 Feb

Where: Tsim Sha Tsui

How much: Free

For more information: discoverhongkong.com

Well-wishing Festival

A traditional Chinese New Year activity is to head to Lam Tsuen in the New Territories and partake in well-wishing. Write down your wish, tie it on a string, anchor it with an orange, then toss it into the village’s famous wishing trees. Alternatively, release a wishing lantern into the canal to help bring better tidings for the year ahead. Plus there is another chance to see the Night Parade floats.

When: 10-25 Feb

Where: Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees

How much: Free

For more information: lamtsuen.com

Sha Tin Races

Immerse yourself in the joy of watching magnificent horses gallop around the track in a full programme of races, with the feature race being the Chinese New Year Cup. Perhaps have a flutter and see if your luck is in! Entertainment and Cultural performances abound too at Sha Tin Racecourse on a day packed with activity, including a grand opening show, lion dance and the opportunity to receive good-luck messages from the jockeys.

When: 12 Feb

Where: Sha Tin Race Course

How much: From HK$10

For more information: campaigns.hkjc.com/chinese-new-year

World of Animation

Take an almost spiritual journey into the multimedia universe of Miwa Matreyek as she delves deep into the relationship between humans and the natural world. In this amazing one-woman theatrical display, the artist’s silhouette interacts with cinematic projections, and seemingly separate worlds seem to collide into a new reality. World of Animation offers reflections on the inherent conflict between humanity and nature.

When: 20-23 Feb

Where: City Hall Theatre

How much: From HK$200

For more information: hk.artsfestival.org

Disney on Ice

It is 100 years since the creations of the Disney cannon first began to light up the imaginations of children and adults alike. Now the Disney on Ice 100 Years of Wonder tour comes to Hong Kong and brings the fantastical nature of so many of those characters closer to your heart. Marvel at Simba and his friends on safari in the Pride Lands or rejoice in the carnival of Toy Story 4 as you are swept along in Aladdin’s princely parade.

When: Until 4 Feb

Where: Convention and Exhibition Centre

How much: From HK$480

For more information: disneyonice.com

Losing It

Part of Hong Kong Arts Festival’s Arab Arts Focus, this dance performance reflects the troubled times and experiences of Samaa Wakim, whose formative years were spent in the fiery cauldron of Palestine, that land of bitter and seemingly never-ending conflict. Co-created by dancer and choreographer Wakim and multidisciplinary artist Samar Haddad King, Losing It is a personal journey based on memories of a disintegrating world.

When: 27-28 Feb

Where: Cultural Centre Studio Theatre

How much: From HK$180

For more information: hk.artsfestival.org

AIA Carnival

Enjoy a fun-filled time at this carnival against the spectacular setting of Victoria Harbour. Plenty of entertainments will keep everyone amused, from comedy performers to local and international music acts to carnival games to thrilling rides. Beside a host of performing arts shows and interactive sporting events, The World Circus takes centre stage in the Big Top as well. This is an event with a European feel but a local edge, and there will be oodles of food and drink to recharge the batteries.

When: Until 25 Feb

Where: Central Harbourfront

How much: From HK$95

For more information: aiacarnival.com

Peter Piper: PR visionary Peter Cheung is entrusted by the brands to lead them out of the box

It is nearing 1 pm at the Mandarin Oriental Tamar Suite. Peter Cheung has long since arisen and absorbed himself in the morning rituals of the modern CEO: email, energised with his go-to coffee, and in this instance, employing a full glam team to ready him for our cover shoot. He is a person who uses your first name in conversation. When he walks into a public space and sits down, no one scatters. He is very approachable, and one can easily sense the warmth and vibrancy of his personality, and his fondness for all things luxurious and glamorous.

“Hi! Nice to meet you all!” he cries, without glancing up, as he greets us midway through typing an email on his phone. Once done, he looks at us immediately, winning us over with a sincere smile of apology, and continues his breezy welcome: “Nice to meet you all. Do you like what I’m wearing? I’ve purposely chosen these looks for you guys. Where do we start?”

The man who is Peter Cheung Asia, the strategic marketing and communications consultancy, had a very colourful childhood, as he would describe it. The youngest of six children and the only boy in the Cheung legacy – he was born and raised in Hong Kong until his mother relocated to Victoria, British Columbia, where he became a competitive junior tennis player; at 16 he was ranked in the top 10 of under 18-year-olds in the province.

“It was my childhood dream to be a professional tennis player,” says Cheung. “Whenever we were back in Hong Kong, our parents would send us to the Hong Kong Country Club daily from 9 am to 9 pm. I fantasised I was an international tennis player, training at the Club by day and back to a five- star hotel at night. I really enjoyed my suite life.”

Safe to say, Peter is literally in the wealth of biographies and hagiography.

Cheer Leaders

His early teenage years, including being picked up nightly by his posse in a motorcade of chauffeur-driven cars to visit multiple hotspots, afforded him a glimpse of the luxury lifestyle. “Being here every summer in the most decadent times of the late ’80s and early ’90s, it became my mission to return permanently to the only place that I could only live that dream life – Hong Kong,” he says.

Once back, early stints in fashion merchandising and media led to senior PR roles at Sotheby’s, Dior, Versace and Van Cleef & Arpels. His father, a successful entrepreneur in the insurance field, was his most trusted adviser, even though the paths they trod in life couldn’t have been more different.

*Shiny black jacquard funnel neck cape coat with padded hem and cuffs by Barney Cheng Couture*

“I sought his advice always and I never made a professional move without discussing it with him,” says Cheung. “And he always said to me, you know what? You help the brands, you help your bosses, why don’t you help yourself and be your own boss? He was definitely my biggest inspiration to start my own business.”

On the other hand, his mother was his inspiration for fashion and style. His appreciation of clothes, jewellery and aesthetics from a very young age stemmed from her. “She had this amazing personality, character, beauty and style in that Shanghainese chic of a bygone era,” he shares.

“My parents, together with my five sisters and my friends have shaped me into what I am today. Shoutout to you all!” he cheers from the suite’s velvet couch.

Outside the Box

Peter still sometimes channels the kid from Canada that he once was: slightly wide-eyed and a little surprised to find himself as a marketing trailblazer in the region, more influential than most nine-to-five bankers. He defends his record as a creative leader in his own right and he elaborates on how he deals with his rivals and competitors.

“If my father did not put it on the table, I don’t know what I would be doing today. He made me realise I was in a unique position with my background, experience and expertise in that I worked in multiple product segments,” he explains. “This position is what I think sets Peter Cheung Asia apart from traditional agencies.

Black sequined jacket by Barney Cheng Couture

“We are a strategic consultancy offering unparalleled experience and strategies in marketing and communications services on a variety of luxury levels for developing strategies that are unique, creative, out of the box, surprising, in an ever-changing and competitive industry, but stemming from the unique and invaluable experiences through my now nearly 30 years of expertise, network and know-how.”

A natural affinity for beautiful things and love of the natural world makes him a credible messenger for a values-led company. Even as Cheung has reshaped the marketing business, he is reluctant to supply a list of his own creative achievements with the company he launched in 2015. These include steering clients in the fields of fashion, jewellery and watches, expanding into the hospitality industry (maybe inspired by the prodigal son of hotels), media, art and culture and education, and offering skills and time to several nonprofit organisations and charities.

Power Forward

His wavy silver hair is neatly maintained – oftentimes blown by the wind as he poses for the camera. He is wearing an all-black ensemble, with glittering studs and sequins from top to toe. His perception of himself, with the position he has achieved in life, remains anything but simple.

“I’ve been described as a lot of things, but probably normal is not among those. I love having ‘crazy’ ideas. What is most exciting is having an original idea, something very abstract in the beginning, and to be able to hone it, work with it, shape it, edit, add or subtract elements, evolve it, looking at it comprehensively from every angle, and then to be able to launch this idea, by now a solid strategic plan, put it in motion with maximum impact and energy, with hopefully successful results and impeccable timing, and to see something concrete come into fruition,” he says, all in one breath with a deep sigh at the end.

*Jacquard and embroidered gold coat by Dries Van Noten*

“Was that too much? In life, there’s nothing too much. As they say, there’s always more to life.”

And the future is complicated. Today, Peter Cheung Asia is a dominant marketing company in Hong Kong, having emerged from the pandemic relatively unscathed and prosperous, and also at a crossroads: perpetually on the brink of the discovery that will change the PR dynamic again, while at the same time fending off constant challenges to its existing business.

“We don’t really look back very much at all in history,” he says. “We’re always focused on the future and trying to feel like that, we’re very much at that starting line where you can really dream and have big ideas that are not constrained by the past.”

Clearly, as the visionary that he is, Cheung has the knack of turning doubters into followers and further emboldening his daring creativity through an innate curiosity about, and connection with, people and society. As we near the conclusion of our time together, an oscillating net of polite communications folks leading the way, he exchanges hellos, sorrys and thank yous with whomever we pass and are temporarily blocked because of our photoshoot. He makes this a habit, always acknowledging the goodness in people.

We pop the cork on a bottle of Champagne and raise a glass to a smooth afternoon’s work. His next move? Anywhere the wind blows.

Interview, Text & Art Direction: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Videographer: Jack Fontanilla Venue: Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong Brands: Barney Cheng Couture and Dries Van Noten Cover: Black silk organza multilayer cheongsam with gold thread Chinese pine tree motif hand embroidered embellishment by Barney Cheng Couture

Shine Bright: HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show & International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show 2024

Register now for free admission

The stage is set, and the excitement is palpable as the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show & International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show returns in 2024. This highly anticipated event is a true celebration of exquisite craftsmanship, innovation, and unmatched beauty in the world of jewelry. With a rich history and a reputation for excellence, the shows promise to be a dazzling experience for industry professionals and jewelry enthusiasts alike.

A Showcase of Glamour and Elegance:

The HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show & International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show have long been regarded as premier platforms for the global jewelry industry. Renowned for its international appeal, the shows bring together top-tier exhibitors, buyers, and industry experts from around the world. Located in the vibrant city of Hong Kong, these events offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest trends, discover exceptional designs, and forge valuable business connections.

Unveiling the Finest Collections:

A breathtaking selection of jewelry collections that are likely to enthrall viewers is at the center of the exhibitions. Traders of diamonds, gems, and pearls as well as well-known designers and manufacturers are among the exhibitors showcasing their best works. Every item, from elaborate diamond necklaces to vivid gemstone rings and glossy pearl earrings, is painstakingly made to absolute perfection. The exhibitions provide guests with a singular opportunity to observe the seamless blending of traditional craftsmanship and modern design aesthetics.

A Platform for Innovation:

The HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show & International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show also serve as a platform for innovation and technological advancements in the industry. Exhibitors showcase cutting-edge techniques and technologies that push the boundaries of jewelry design and production. From 3D printing to laser engraving and digital modeling, these advancements not only enhance the creative process but also revolutionize the way jewelry is made and experienced.

Exploring Global Trends:

Through their exploration of new developments in the worldwide jewelry business, the exhibits offer a priceless chance to remain ahead of the curve. Participants can take part in thought-provoking seminars, workshops, and forums hosted by professionals in the field who offer their knowledge and skills on a variety of subjects, such as design trends, market insights, and sustainable practices. Through these training courses, participants have a greater comprehension of the dynamics of the business and develop the skills required to succeed in a constantly changing market.

Facilitating Business Connections:

The HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show & International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show are not only a platform for showcasing jewelry but also a hub for conducting business. The shows facilitate networking opportunities, connecting exhibitors with potential buyers, distributors, and industry professionals. The bustling exhibition halls become a melting pot of ideas, collaborations, and partnerships, fostering growth and expansion within the jewelry industry.

A Testament to Hong Kong’s Excellence:

Hong Kong has long been recognized as a global jewelry hub, and the HKTDC shows continue to uphold its reputation for excellence. The city’s strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and business-friendly environment make it an ideal destination for international trade. The shows serve as a testament to Hong Kong’s commitment to the jewelry industry’s growth and development, as well as its ability to provide a platform that attracts the most influential players in the field.

Hot Cakes: Customised creations bring aesthetic delight and originality to every celebration

Cakes and celebrations go hand in hand, and a beautiful bespoke confection is the cherry on top of a joyful occasion. A creative cake not only satisfies the sweet of tooth, it makes any event complete. Whether a birthday, wedding, baby shower, graduation or even a breakup, people want to celebrate – or commiserate – with a cake that is a gustatory as well as a visual treat.

A cake can be anything you want it to be, and when ordering bespoke, no two cakes are obviously ever the same. Deluxe cakeries offer a wide choice of shapes and sizes, styles and designs, not to mention flavours and toppings, so it is entirely possible to choose the perfect cake for all tastes and themes. Here, we gorge our eyes on the scintillating customised collections of some of Hong Kong’s most creative bakers. In a city known for its culinary prowess, bespoke cake shops in Hong Kong have carved a niche for themselves by creating standout pieces for every occasion. With their remarkable craftsmanship, attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction, they have elevated the art of cake making to new heights.These edible works of art not only delight the taste buds but also serve as a centrepiece that adds a touch of magic to any celebration. So the next time you’re planning a special event, consider indulging in the exquisite creations of a bespoke cake shop in Hong Kong for an unforgettable experience.

Cake of Stardust

A universe of delectable cakes is available at Cakes of Stardust, quite literally, as the collections are named after celestial wonders. Working from her Tai Hang cake shop, founder Nicky Chow makes everything from scratch using the freshest seasonal ingredients. The passionate self-taught baker launched her venture in 2018 and you can taste the dedication and loving care she puts into each personalised cake.

Among the array of bold flavours in the signature range, Sun mango lava cake is a fluffy sponge sandwiched together with layers of fresh fruit and cream. Other popular choices are a banana caramel chiffon cake called the Asteroid, and the Black Hole blueberry chocolate-drip chiffon cake. Prices range from HK$1,000 to HK$4,000 for bespoke creations. cakeofstardusthk.com

Sugar Me Kissery

Telling a story through each piece of edible art, Sugar Me Kissery is another great option for those seeking a unique and aesthetic celebration confectionery. The founder of this Tai Kok Tsui- based cakery, Shirley, was formally an architect who discovered baking was her true calling. She travelled to France, the UK, Australia, Taiwan and Korea to learn the delicate, deft art of cake decorating from master bakers.

The designs are not only Instagram- worthy, but the flavours are incredible too, with Guinness dark beer, lemon, vanilla and red velvet among Sugar Me’s popular picks. While there is a huge collection online to select from, bespoke cakes are where the baker’s skills are truly demonstrated. Customers can choose the level of sweetness and the amount of fondant they prefer. Prices start at HK$2,500 and rise to HK$5,000 for elaborate tiered creations. sugarmehk.com

The Cakery

For the fitness freaks out there, The Cakery is the perfect place. It offers nutrient-rich, health- conscious contemporary creations to satisfy guilt- free sugar cravings of plant-based, keto, gluten-, sugar- or dairy-free cake lovers. Each temptation can be adapted to cater to a range of different dietary needs, and ingredients are listed on the website so customers can consume mindfully.

The brainchild of banker-turned-baker Shirley Kwok, The Cakery has grown from a pop-up at The Landmark to five shopping mall outlets in the city. As well as using the healthiest ingredients, the bakers here have replaced refined sugar with natural sugars and increased the amount of good fats and proteins to boost the overall nutritional profile of their creations. Prices of bespoke cakes scale up from HK$3,000, reaching HK$8,000 for the grandest. thecakery.com

Baking Maniac

Run by Renuka Kripalani Gidwani and her son, Ankrish Gidwani, Baking Maniac is a family passion turned business. Cake-making has been a hobby of the mother for more than 25 years, while Ankrish has baked ever since he could hold a mixer. Every Friday after school, he would spend hours preparing cakes for the family to enjoy; he would also showcase this edible art on his blog, attracting a following. By the time he was 16, he was getting orders and mother and son set up their cakery, producing celebration cakes, cupcakes and cake pops.

The Gidwanis practise quality and attention to detail throughout the baking process, from
design and preparation to delivery. Everything is freshly baked in their kitchen in Wong Chuk Hang using fine organic ingredients sourced from all over the world. Their joint experimentation has led to an exciting variety of flavours. There are common choices like chocolate, strawberry and red velvet and unique picks like green tea, chilli bomb and bubble tea. Cake categories are also diverse, from funky child-centric creations for parties to elegant concoctions for corporate celebrations. Prices range from HK$1,000 to HK$5,000. bakingmaniachk.com

Bespoke cake shops are renowned for their ability to turn dreams into reality. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, anniversary or any other special event, these artists work closely with their clients to understand their vision.

Coaching Class: Mentoring maestro David Yeh Jr sets the businesses of other prominent families to rights

David Yeh Jr is celebrating the 10th anniversary of his executive coaching business that is undoubtedly a labour of love. He thrives on helping others and gains immense pleasure from what he does. “I hope I can continue what I do until the very last day of my life,” says the CEO (Chief Empowerment Officer) of Destiny Research Institute (DRI). “It will be meaningful if I can continue to serve mankind and help more people to achieve what they want in life.”

Yeh leads a dedicated team of corporate and wellness coaches. Speaking from the DRI office in Central, he clearly exudes a sense of pride in helping family firms and other businesses overcome a range of difficulties so they can confidently look to the future. Over the years, he has mentored and coached numerous – and sometimes long-time – clients who value the services he provides; much of his business is based on referrals.

Prior to founding DRI, Yeh had a diverse business background, mainly working in finance, investment and wealth management. Initially, after gaining a business administration degree from the University of Southern California, he worked for his father’s toy manufacturing company in a marketing capacity and the tough love from his father and general life experiences have helped mould his character and define who he is.

Junior role

Yeh Jr’s relationship with his father was difficult at times, and he freely admits he went through a “rebellious” phase, but he is obviously exceedingly proud of his father’s business achievements. He talks animatedly of how, in the 1980s, David Yeh Sr rescued beloved UK toy-car brand Matchbox from bankruptcy in a leveraged buyout and then masterminded an amazing turnaround in its fortunes and a landmark listing on the New York Stock Exchange.

It was this business acumen that the son sought to emulate, and he was eager to soak up knowledge and experience by working alongside his father at Universal Toys. As the eldest of four siblings, he had thought in the Chinese family business tradition that he would one day take over the reins himself. But Yeh Sr was a tough taskmaster and never allowed family loyalties to get in the way of sound business judgment.

Father knows best

Yeh recounts a fascinating anecdote – one he often tells at business functions – how early one Saturday morning, his father awoke him in his room in New York and took him to a huge skyscraper on Fifth Avenue. As they ascended in the lift, the son remained completely in the dark as to what was going on. The lift opened and there stood about 20 professionals in suits.

“I assumed they were lawyers and accountants, so I asked ‘what’s going on?’ My Dad – calling me Junior as he normally did – said, ‘Junior, I want to merge my company with another listed company.’ To which I replied, ‘Why on earth do you want to do that?’”

The youngster was then shocked by his father’s response: “In front of everybody, he said, ‘Junior, if I allow you to run this business, in six to nine months’ time it will be going under!’

“So imagine you are a 20-year-old and hear something like that from your own father whom you admire so much,” says Yeh. “This is pretty hurtful and it’s very hard.”

Personal growth

The humiliating experience remains seared into Yeh’s consciousness, but he did glean some long-term benefits from it. “That’s where I learned so much about family conflict and how to find a suitable and viable exit strategy for any kind of business,” he says. “That set the foundation to do what I do today.”

Although his relationship with his father, who passed away two years ago at the age of 93, was a ittle strained for a while afterwards, Yeh regards him as his hero. He still treasures his father’s wise counsel and many letters over the years offering words of wisdom.

Another defining moment for Yeh was a time of great personal loss and sadness that made him reflect on the truly important things in life. It was then that he decided to set up his coaching enterprise.

“I wanted to leverage my knowledge and skills to help business owners, in particular family-business owners, to navigate complex business environments and unlock their leadership potential,” he explains.

Having attended a host of business courses over the years, he cites Tony Robbins’ Date with Destiny as perhaps the most impactful. “It helped us to dig deep into understanding ourselves so we can understand more about what is really happening in the external world,” he says.

Family misfortunes

He describes three typical situations a family business would seek the advice of his consultancy: when there are deep-rooted conflicts among family members they cannot resolve themselves; when a previously successful business model is no longer working or struggling to gel with the current generation; and when future generations don’t want to be involved with the business and Next Gen leaders from outside the family need grooming.

Within a family business environment there is sometimes an “unspoken” issue which family members are reluctant to talk about. “We call them ‘the elephant in the room’,” he says.

Yeh maintains it is essential a potential client has full cognition of the issues confronting the business if success is to be achieved. “The key driver is whether a client is aware of the prominence of the issue they are encountering before it gets out of hand and problems begin to erupt,” he explains.

Calls for help

Another important requirement is the need to develop mutual respect and trust. “Not everyone is suitable or ready for coaching. As the famous ‘Trillion-Dollar Coach’ Bill Campbell has mentioned – not everyone is coachable. When we approach somebody, we have to know whether that person is coachable or not.”

He describes a coachable person as someone who is open-minded and willing to express themselves and disclose their own difficulties. “If I think that person is coachable, we have a much better chance in attaining positive results and being able to help them reflect on what has to be done for their future and for us,” says Yeh.

Succession and success

Succession planning is a core strength of his consultancy. “Our coaching methodology has an all-rounded approach, and different elements of life would be touched upon. In essence, these should all be correlated with a person’s mind map. Our goal is help to connect all the factors and guide our clients into steering their business path to success with well-planned succession.”

He believes companies should always continue to develop their staff. “To make this work, our target audience needs to believe continuous growth and learning are essential for themselves and their business to emerge in this dynamic changing world.”

Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction: Joseff Musa; Videographer: Jack Fontanilla