Hong Kong Shifts

Stories From the Streets of Hong Kong

Photographs by Maxime Vanhollebeke / Text by Cynthia Cheng
Published by Blacksmith Books
Distributed by Simon & Schuster

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About The Book

From sampan ladies and bamboo scaffolders to street cleaners, fishermen, security guards and market vendors – these workers form the backbone of the fast-paced metropolis of Hong Kong, yet they are often overlooked or taken for granted. Looking beyond the glamorous harborfront, neon-lit downtown and dramatic skyline, Hong Kong Shifts explores the back alleys to meet and learn from the individuals who work tirelessly to keep the city ticking. These are stories and portraits of resilience, wisdom, positivity and strength from the streets of Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Shifts is a social impact storytelling platform with a mission to promote kindness, empathy and connection in our living and working environments. At the core of our project is the belief that storytelling is a powerful tool to engage, move and inspire – and, ultimately, to build bridges between diverse communities in the city that we call home.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Blacksmith Books (October 14, 2024)
  • Length: 200 pages
  • ISBN13: 9789887674849

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Raves and Reviews

More than 100 profiles, with words by Cheng and photos by Vanhollebeke, have been shared on Hong Kong Shifts' social media platforms. Venturing from far-flung islands to crowded back alleys, the pair listen to stories of the often unheard: street cleaners, bamboo scaffolders, food delivery drivers, mechanics, street vendors, farmers. They even spoke to a buffalo whisperer.

– Kylie Knott, South China Morning Post

Storytelling project Hong Kong Shifts puts the spotlight on shift workers whose invaluable contributions often go unnoticed, from street cleaners to dockhands to chefs. Founded in 2019 by Cynthia Cheng and Maxime Vanhollebeke, the project aims to promote empathy, social inclusion and engagement in the city.

– Hong Kong Free Press

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