Meet Some of Central Market's Unsung Heroes

Born in Shenzhen, she’s one of three children whom she describes more like friends than siblings. A graduate of hotel management, Harley enjoys her morning shifts at Central Market. Two hours manning the phones is followed by stints at the information desk, assisting with the many events held there, and generally getting amongst the visitors who flock to this popular destination. Harley’s direct contact with visitors is what she finds most rewarding, and she encourages her team to take the same proactive approach.

Outside work, she reflects that the pandemic has encouraged her and her family to look more closely at Hong Kong’s hidden gems, and they now spend their downtime exploring some of the city’s more distant and obscure neighbourhoods.

The camaraderie he shares with colleagues

When Kwong told his elderly mother he’d landed a job in Central Market, she was very distressed thinking he’d be working in a hot, smelly environment, dodging chickens being slaughtered and fish being gutted. So, she was astonished when visiting for the first time since its reopening. His mum witnessed the Market’s dramatic transformation for herself.

Kwong has also seen big changes within the Chinachem Group. With pride he describes the improvements made to staff conditions and the way the company looks after the families of its employees. Working predictable shifts suits him well, and he enjoys the camaraderie he shares with his six colleagues daily, and he and his team often go out together at lunchtimes, or on days off. And his time at Central Market has enhanced Kwong’s personal growth, with him describing it as an eye-opening experience, and one that’s encouraged him to give his best to this iconic heritage.

Seeing himself as much in customer service as security, Kwong looks for passion and sincerity in those he interviews for security positions at Central Market, knowing this will help deliver the experience people expect from this unique venue.