Many immigrants face the question of identity. First-generation immigrants may preserve deeper emotional ties with their homeland, but as their descendants are born without residing in their parental homeland, what is their relationship with their cultural heritage?
As a Nepalese girl born and raised in Hong Kong, Eliza speaks fluent Cantonese, is familiar with Hong Kong pop culture, and dresses no differently from the average Hong Konger. She seemingly has little connection to her ancestral history, but she has always considered Nepal as part of her roots.
The story begins with Eliza’s family history. Both of her grandfathers were Gurkha who came from Nepal and later settled in Hong Kong. Eliza’s parents met each other and got married in Hong Kong, Eliza was then born and raised.
Eliza and the Kowloon Park
From a young age, she often participated in Nepalese community gatherings in Hong Kong. This is why she chose Kowloon Park as the interview location. “When I was little, we lived near Jordan, and Kowloon Park was very close to our home. There were always many Nepalese people here, having picnics, swimming, and watching animals during weekends.” Eliza had joyful times in Kowloon Park as a child, and these fond memories helped shape her Nepalese identity.
In 2015, when a severe earthquake struck Nepal, Eliza joined other Hong Kong Nepalese in a candlelight vigil at Kowloon Park, they prayed for the victims and donated to support the affected areas. Even though Eliza was in Hong Kong, she felt deeply pained, “When I stood in silent tribute, I couldn’t help but cry. I felt grateful to be living in such a safe place like Hong Kong. I never thought such a disaster would happen in Nepal.”
Hong Kong or Nepal?
Eliza has been in touch with her relatives in Nepal. “When I was 15 or 16, I went back to Nepal for two months and became close with my relatives there. We keep in touch every month.” Eliza has been surrounded with Nepalese culture since childhood, Nepalese food, festivals, and traditional clothing are all very important to her. She enjoys introducing Nepalese festivals like Dashain and Tihar to her friends.
Nonethless, Eliza has also been nurtured in Hong Kong and has deep emotional ties to the city. When asked whether she would choose to stay in Hong Kong or move toNepa, she firmly replied, “Of course I’d choose to live in Hong Kong. I’ve been here since I was little and I’m used to the lifestyle here.” Eliza is willing to stay in Hong Kong for the strong diversity and career prospects.
Identity is not a binary decision. Eliza constantly navigates between Nepalese and Hong Kong cultures. Nurtured by this dual identity, Eliza has become a unique individual. While she maintains connections with her Nepalese heritage, she will continue her life story in Hong Kong.
