“Of course, we’re only human, and we get tired sometimes… But my work isn’t actually that difficult—it’s just introducing things to customers, giving recommendations, and having a chat. I always feel fulfilled.”

For Edna, growing up was about more than just the passing of time; it was about how she chose to regain her footing at every crossroads in life. Balancing family, work, and faith, she mastered the art of turning life’s pressures into fuel for moving forward.

Edna grew up in the Philippines and later moved to Hong Kong on a dependent visa to join her husband, who works here as an engineer. A career-driven woman at heart, Edna previously held a managerial position at a company where she was responsible for overseeing more than five branches. This experience sharpened her leadership skills and accustomed her to managing workflows, navigating customer relations, and keeping up with a fast-paced environment.

For years, Edna’s life was split between two places: she would stay in Hong Kong for two months, return to the Philippines for another two months, and then head back again. This rhythmic commuting continued until the pandemic struck in 2020. Strict government quarantine requirements made frequent flights impossible, prompting Edna to settle down permanently in Hong Kong. In March this year, she began working at SN Nasir Kuya Saqi Pinoy and Pakistani Restaurant, a new shop opened by a friend on the ground floor of Chungking Mansions. She recalls her friend noting that there were no shops dedicated exclusively to Filipino products in the building at the time, and because the rent was relatively affordable, it offered a stable foundation to grow the business.

When the conversation shifts to their merchandise, Edna becomes visibly animated, introducing various products unique to the Philippines. She notes that women’s beauty products are their biggest hits, particularly body lotions. She also emphasizes that they source their inventory directly through personal networks and trusted suppliers back home, ensuring customers can always count on the quality of their goods.

On the grocery side, dried fish stands out as another crowd favourite. As she brings it up, Edna smiles and asks warmly, “Can I show you?” The dried fish is strategically placed right at the front of the shop to catch the eyes of passersby. There is a natural, effortless rhythm to how she presents the product—far from a aggressive sales pitch, it feels more like she is sharing a genuine taste of coastal fishing culture.

Looking up at the shop sign, the word “Pinoy” stands out—a term meaning “Filipino.” Unlike the official word “Filipino,” however, “Pinoy” carries an insider warmth, a word usually known best by those within the community. By choosing it, they hoped to offer compatriots a comforting sense of familiarity. Whenever regulars drop by, Edna instantly springs from her chair, greeting them enthusiastically in Tagalog, offering discounts, and warmly inviting them to return.

The shop operates 24 hours a day, catering to both loyal regulars and late-night tourists. Surrounded by numerous guesthouses and hotels, the store is a haven for travelers who wake up hungry in the middle of the night. Edna notes with a sigh that the cost of living in Hong Kong is high, meaning one has to work incredibly hard just to get by. Having lived in Hong Kong for 16 years now, when asked what her secret to life is, she laughs heartily. “Of course, we’re only human, and we get tired sometimes. But my work isn’t actually that difficult—it’s just introducing things to customers, giving recommendations, and having a chat. It always leaves me feeling fulfilled.”

She attributes much of her strength to her Christian faith, attending worship services every Sunday at a church in North Point. She speaks with pride of her son, a hardworking student who earned a place studying psychology at the University of Hong Kong. Mature beyond his years, he understands the financial realities of life and works a part-time job alongside his studies to help support the household.

There is a deep sense of reassurance that emanates from Edna. Speaking of Hong Kong, she shares that she genuinely loves the city because people are friendly and life feels comfortable. The beauty of Edna’s journey is that she hasn’t just adapted to living in this city; she has brought a piece of her own world into it, while leaving a lasting part of herself here.

Interviewed by Dawna Fung, JW

Cover Image: Chung King Mansions by Anna Theodosis