In a city where traditional trades are vanishing, one millennial is breathing new life into a 60-year-old paper offering shop in Sham Shui Po, ensuring a unique cultural heritage endures.
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Kaka, a public relations professional, has stepped in as the unexpected successor to her godparents' business. The decision came seven months ago when they announced their retirement, prompting Kaka to take a leap of faith.
"I have always had a sentimental attachment to old things," Kaka shared. She recalls boldly asking to take over the shop, a proposal met with a simple yet profound condition from her godmother: "Sure, as long as you are committed."
Since then, Kaka has juggled her corporate career with an intensive apprenticeship, learning the intricate trade from folding gold ingots to managing inventory.
"There are so many specialized terminologies in the industry, which cannot be learned solely through classes," said Kaka.
A personal lesson of life and loss
The role has also reshaped her understanding of mortality. "Not everyone gets the chance to grow old," Kaka reflected.
This realization has come from her interactions with customers, particularly a request for the customization of a life-sized "Superman transformation device" -- a poignant reminder of unfulfilled childhood dreams and regrets.
Encounters like these have inspired her to stock contemporary items like designer bags, smartphones, and trendy clothing, appealing to younger generations.
Online tutorial to fight perceptions
Taking over a declining business, Kaka identifies changing public perception as her most significant hurdle.
"People usually think these shops are dark and messy, something to avoid," she explained, clarifying that paper offerings can also be used in celebrations from births to weddings.
Recognizing that misconceptions stem from a lack of understanding, Kaka launched an Instagram account featuring tutorials on folding joss paper, breaking down traditions to ease the anxieties of younger customers.
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Her efforts have been well-received as a new mini Tong Seng keychain—an item from the Chinese almanac—carried for good luck, has become a bestseller.
During the festive season, she also introduced giant rabbit lanterns made from paper, successfully attracting a younger audience.
With the Lunar New Year approaching, she disclosed plans to launch Japanese-style zodiac charms to help alleviate bad luck.
Longtime residents have welcomed the fresh touch, with one saying "It's good to see a young person preserving this tradition."
Another resident, Emily, shared that many other paper offering shops in the area have closed, making Kaka's revival even more significant.
However, Kaka admitted the shop is not yet profitable, citing rising rents and a trend toward simpler "green" funerals.
"My goal is just to keep the business alive without having to pay out of pocket," she said.
