Hidden Narratives delves into the untold stories of Hong Kong’s migrant domestic workers, who started arriving in the 1970s, as the city transformed from a manufacturing center into a modern financial hub. Today nearly 400,000 predominantly female workers from the Philippines and Indonesia, making up 10% of the territory’s labor force, navigate challenging conditions that include long working hours, limited privacy, and sometimes abuse. Yet, amid these hardships, they exhibit a resilience and optimism that speak to the indomitable human spirit.
As a fine art photographer, I am drawn to the nuanced realities of these individuals, particularly during their rare moments of respite. On their designated days off, they reclaim their agency, engaging in self-improvement, acquiring new skills, or pursuing entrepreneurial aspirations through part-time work. Their determination and ingenuity reflect a profound commitment to securing a better future, not only for themselves but also for their families abroad.
Beyond their demanding work schedules, these individuals cultivate vibrant social lives. They dress with care, attend community gatherings, and forge strong, supportive bonds with one another. Through my lens, I capture the laughter, camaraderie, and shared resilience that redefine their identities beyond that of laborers—they are also devoted mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives, quietly shaping a brighter future for themselves and their families.
This photographic series unveils their extraordinary journeys, celebrating their vitality and the positive impact they have on the economic and social fabric of Hong Kong. By sharing these intimate portraits, the work invites us to reflect on our collective responsibility to uplift marginalized communities and recognize their inherent value.
Read the SCMP Article about this project and exhibition...
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