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Of the some 7,000 languages currently spoken around the globe, it is estimated about half will cease as everyday spoken vernaculars by the end of this century. Indeed, many languages previously spoken are now no longer in use. Part of the issue is that historically most of the world’s languages have not been written and this intangibility hinders their preservation.



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“With each language that disappears, a part of human life goes away with no possibility of return,” says Guiomar Alonso Cano, the Unesco Representative in Peru. “Not only a vehicle of communication is extinguished, but also a culture, a repository of knowledge, a system of thoughts, a way of seeing the world, a system of family relationships and values, and a force of citizenship.”



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Unesco’s World Atlas of Languages indicates that about 250 languages have disappeared since 1950 alone. The majority of those in serious danger of vanishing now have less than 100,000 speakers – it is thought about 10,000 people is the minimum required for the intergenerational transmission of a language. Ultimately, this means some 2,500 languages could be lost out of the current international tally.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Power talks</h3>



Language shifts have occurred through the ages, with smaller languages often frozen out by those that are politically dominant. Indeed, following the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, English was hardly used for official purposes for about 350 years. Scholars suggest the sudden elevation of its status coincided with the rapid development of the written language. Other turning points in supplanting the interloping French lingo include Henry V’s shift to English in his correspondence, and the arrival of England’s first printing press in 1476, which afforded the publication of copious volumes in standard English.


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Similarly, the languages of former colonial masters like Dutch in Indonesia and Portuguese in Goa are now hardly discernible as they are no longer perceived to have value.



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According to anthropologist Mark Turin, an Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia, minority or local languages tend to fall away by design rather than accident. “They are often steamrollered out of use by government policy, by nationalism, by colonialism,” he says. “There’s a real sense that the cultural processes of complex societies put pressure on local languages in service of global or national languages.”



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Turin champions the need to preserve as many languages as possible. “It’s important that we have as good a snapshot of linguistic diversity as we can to get a sense of how different languages express the human condition, what they see in the environment and things around them,” he says. “We also owe it to future generations to have a comprehensive document of the expressive range of human language.”



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Silent threats</h3>



While pressures on indigenous and minority languages have been weighty for some time, Turin believes a combination of technology and supranationalism is placing them under greater threat. Often the people themselves, while living on together as a community, stop speaking their native tongue. “They shift to another language,” he says. Natural, political or cultural disasters, or even genocide and disease, have historically devastated communities.



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The twin but distinct forces of colonialism and capitalism have played a key part in marginalising local languages, according to Turin. Where settler colonialism was at its most pernicious – in places like North America, Australia and New Zealand – indigenous communities were uprooted, relocated or in some cases annihilated. The colonists then introduced an external language through administration and education.


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He cites his own country, Canada, which has been widely applauded for its federal commitment to English and French bilingualism, as a prime example. “[This is] great in some ways; at the same time, how curious and perverse that this country celebrates and accords a lot of resources to two languages, neither of which are from here, both of which came from somewhere else.”



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Capitalism has not been particularly supportive of minority languages since at its core is the need for a central language to facilitate the free flow of commerce. While most of the world has throughout history spoken more than one language, the utility afforded by an international tongue explains why people start dropping their local language. “Capitalism and colonialism often reinforce the ideology of a single language for all, promoting monolingualism,” notes Turin.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Right to speak</h3>



He believes people should not have to fight for the right to speak their own language: “This is a fundamental human right, enshrined by the United Nations and many other organisations.” The UN has shown symbolic and political leadership by introducing an international decade (2022-2032) of Indigenous languages.



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Research in Canada has indicated that in areas where local languages are still spoken and cultural continuity is strong, the rate of indigenous youth suicide rate drops to zero. “That’s a really interesting, powerful correlation,” says the anthropologist. “What the causation is, we’re not quite sure.”


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Many communities in North America have sought support for the preservation of their indigenous and minority languages, and Turin says a combination of support mechanisms is needed to turn the tide: money and resources, as well as positive public policy and governance, and systems-administration legislation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shout-outs of hope</h3>



Although many languages remain under threat, extraordinary stories of resurgence, of languages bouncing back against all odds, give some grounds for optimism. The work of Jessie Little Doe Baird, founder of the Wôpanâak Language Reclamation Project in the indigenous Wampanoag communities of Massachusetts, in particular, has been singled out for praise. Such was its success in reviving a language which had not been spoken in 150 years that Baird was named in 2020 as one of USA Today’s Women of the Century.



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Linguist Daryl Baldwin is also to be commended for his support of the Native American Myaamia people and their language in the Midwest. His focus has been on developing culture- and language-based educational materials to boost the numbers of native speakers in the community.



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As Turin has cited, successful language revitalisation programmes need the marriage of money, resources and accommodating public policy. Among the best examples of language uptick are in the US state of Hawaii and among the ethnic Māori of New Zealand. “You can do a PhD in Hawaiian and a PhD in Māori, and defend [a court case] in Māori,” he says, while highlighting the plethora of newspapers, poetry and songs in these local languages.


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Other language revitalisation projects across the Himalayas and North America are producing amazing results. “The Mohawk community [in southeastern Canada] has done incredible work, documenting their own language and producing new generations of speakers,” he says.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Voice for change</h3>



New technology such as WhatsApp and other forms of audio and video messaging can be hugely powerful in preserving and revitalising minority languages. The availability of podcasts through the radio is another formidable tool. “I’m excited by how minoritised communities and languages are making use of technology in powerful and compelling ways,” says Turin.



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Ongoing globalisation and its technical interconnectivity can provide opportunities for languages to flourish. A recent book, Language City by Ross Perlin, co-director of New York-based Endangered Language Alliance, spotlights how globalisation has produced diaspora communities who carry their languages with them when they move and migrate. His organisation has identified about 700 languages spoken in New York and many of these communities resist pressure to stop using their local tongue in a bid to preserve something of their culture.



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“There are now, in New York City, more speakers of some languages from northern Nepal than there are in the homeland villages from which they originated,” says Turin, highlighting how languages are highly mobile and can become reanimated in very different areas when a density of people settles there.

Vanishing Whispers: Many thousands of minority languages have fallen silent. Can other last words be saved? 

Dyson steps up its air purifier game with its new Dyson HEPA Big+Quiet Formaldehyde BP06 purifier which is more powerful and quiet than its previous creations. Built to be used in indoor spaces like offices, the new Dyson air purifier is engineered with avant-garde technologies for commercial use that enable the gadget to work with high efficiency without making much noise. Below are some aspects that help the Dyson HEPA Big+Quiet Formaldehyde purifier stand out.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">High Airflow</h3>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="512" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/DY_OS_1676.jpg" alt="dyson air purifier" class="wp-image-77258" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/DY_OS_1676.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/DY_OS_1676-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/DY_OS_1676-200x133.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


The Dyson HEPA Big+Quiet Formaldehyde BP06 purifier is backed by cone aerodynamics which allows the purifier to absorb and purify 90 litres of airflow per second. This is said to be twice the rate of the previous air purifiers. Simultaneously, the machine projects purified air at a 50-degree angle thus reducing any kind of resistance to the airflow.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Purified Air</h3>


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The newly launched air purifier is built with three layers of filtering technologies that ensure that the air flowing from the machine is extremely pure. These include the HEPA H13-grade particle filter, the activated carbon filter and the Dyson Selective Catalytic Oxidation (SCO) filter.



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The HEPA H13-grade particle filter plays a crucial role by absorbing 99.95 per cent of the dust and allergen particles from the air. The activated carbon filter absorbs nitrogen dioxide, VOCs and other odours that usually enter the room from the outside. Taking care of harmful chemicals like the formaldehyde molecules, that are produced by things inside the room such as wallpaper, paint, carpets and more, is the SCO filter that breaks down the formaldehyde molecules into carbon dioxide and water with the help of oxygen.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Monitoring CO2 Levels</h3>


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In addition to purifying air, the Dyson HEPA Big+Quiet Formaldehyde BP06 purifier has a feature that records and displays the carbon dioxide level of the room on an LCD screen. The output is colour-coded and the readings are displayed in green, yellow or red based on the CO2 levels. While green is considered safe, red indicates that the room needs some ventilation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Low Noise</h3>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="512" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/DY_OS_1604.jpg" alt="dyson air purifier" class="wp-image-77261" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/DY_OS_1604.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/DY_OS_1604-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/DY_OS_1604-200x133.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


Despite all these high-powered features, you will hardly hear the air purifier as it maintains a noise level of 55.6 decibels. If you are wondering how loud is 55.6 dB, then you should note that the noise from a typical office is somewhere around 60 dB to 70 dB.



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This kind of noise reduction is achieved by Dyson by adding two internal parts to the air purifier – Helmholtz cavity and labyrinth seal. The job of the Helmholtz cavity is to absorb the sound energy produced by the air purifier, while the labyrinth seal plays a role in noise reduction by reducing sound energy.



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For further information, click <a href="https://www.dyson.hk/en-HK/for-business/air-treatment/dyson-hepa-big-and-quiet-formaldehyde-purifier">here</a>.



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Other Dyson products to check out</h3>



• <a href="https://www.dyson.co.uk/wearables/dyson-zone-air-purifying-headphones/announcement?utm_campaign=ec_purifiers-range_always-on&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_term=Dyson+Zone&amp;utm_content=do_text&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgIL_46Du9gIVAuDtCh3LegDQEAAYASAAEgKo-vD_BwE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dyson Zone™ noise cancelling headphones with air purification</a> • <a href="https://www.dyson.co.uk/air-treatment/purifiers/hot-cool-formaldehyde/white-gold" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehyde™</a> • <a href="https://www.dyson.co.uk/lighting/solarcycle-morph" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dyson Solarcycle™ Morph</a>

Dyson launches new Dyson HEPA Big+Quiet Formaldehyde BP06 purifier that is ideal for large indoor commercial spaces

Prophesies of doom and media hullabaloo surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) have hit the headlines for years – but this time it seems different. It is who and how many are creating the noise.



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A Goldman Sachs report in March sounded the alarm bells, warning that AI could replace the equivalent of 300 million jobs. Soon after, the world’s richest man, Elon Musk, got in on the act – along with 1,800 technology researchers and executives – calling for a six-month pause in the development of AI systems such as OpenAI’s GPT-4 (the latest version of the groundbreaking tech that powers ChatGPT). They warned that powerful digital minds were being created “that no-one – not even their creators – can understand, predict or reliably control”.



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More recently, even more dire warnings have been sounded, with experts such as the heads of OpenAI and Google DeepMind postulating that AI could lead to the extinction of humanity. AI pioneer Yoshua Bengio also called for urgent action to protect the public.


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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Accessible &amp; disruptive</h3>



The launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT has been transformational. While chatbots have been around for some years, and have been considered for a whole range of industrial uses from logistics to medicine, this latest computer chatterbox has astounded commentators with its language ability. Aside from its conversational aplomb, it has shown its versatility with capabilities for writing music, debugging computer programs and completing high-level academic examinations.



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Sean McMinn is the Director of the Center for Education Innovation at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), where he manages a special teaching and learning development fund specific to AI called the Education and Generative AI (EDGE-AI) projects fund. He believes ChatGPT’s accessibility is the key game-changer.



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“This is about accessibility and ease of use,” he says. “AI tools have been developing for a number of years, but they have never been too widely accessible. The user interface of ChatGPT [though] is extremely basic and anyone with a device and internet connection can interact with the Chatbot with ease. Because of this, and the perceived usefulness of the output it generates, it is not surprising that it has gained such attention worldwide. Add to that, the [AI] tools are more powerful than they were just a year ago.”



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McMinn believes it is largely irrelevant that most people do not understand the technology that ChatGPT is built on, namely Large Language Models (LLMs). By far the most important consideration is that it is a very disruptive technology.



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Academia alarm The academic community has been particularly perturbed by the latest developments in AI. ChatGPT (GPT stands for Generative Pre-trained Transformer) can write introductions to scientific articles, high-level computational mathematics and even college courses. The University of Hong Kong was initially so concerned that it implemented a blanket ban on its use; they have since softened their stance, greenlighting ChatGPT for staff (but not student) use until guidelines are introduced. Hong Kong Baptist University is also developing guidelines. One of McMinn’s main roles at HKUST is to explore technology-enhanced teaching and learning (TETL) methods and advise university management and faculty on strategies for implementing such initiatives. “While a lot is still unknown and speculative, many people believe that AI has the potential to enhance or transform how we teach and assess,” he says.



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Following the ongoing speculation and uncertainty about the impact of generative AI on the education sector and workplace, he readily understands why some institutions may choose a cautious approach. The overriding issue concerns integrity. “How do we know what students submit is their own work? Do we have valid evidence that they are learning? Are the assessment tools teachers are using able to distinguish AI output and student outcomes?”



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He believes the uncertainty surrounding the issue could have some positives – spurring into action institutions which have been slow to revamp how and what they teach and forcing a review of what knowledge and skills students need in today’s fast-changing world.



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McMinn does voice concerns that banning the use of generative AI tools may be doing our students a disservice, and he advocates a shift of energy towards preparing students for an AIdriven world. “These tools are not going away; in fact, we will probably see faster advancement in the next few years,” he says. “We should be preparing students for the future of work where AI tools will be commonplace in the workforce.”


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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Workplace worries</h3>



Speculation has been rampant about which jobs will be affected or lost as a result of recent developments. The Goldman Sachs report said AI could assume about a quarter of the work now done by humans. Accountants, lawyers, doctors, journalists, data managers and professionals in other sectors are all thought to be at risk from an AI surge, and there has been speculation that Hollywood film studios might consider replacing writers with generative artificial intelligence.



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“Many professions that rely on creativity will be disrupted, but I am not certain they will disappear completely. In some ways, AI tools have the affordance for new forms of creativity. I think there will still be a need for writers – just in a different form perhaps,” says McMinn.



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He does believe ChatGPT has limited the need for brainstorming and drafting. “Now, we can generate ideas and drafts, and spend more time on editing. So, knowing that process will change, we can start to focus on higher-order tasks that require more analytical thinking.”



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There are various tools available in Hong Kong to assist with writing and brainstorming ideas – Poe.com, Bing Chat, and Google Bard via a VPN. But he warns: “Always check the content these tools generate. LLMs hallucinate and there is a lot of inherent bias that could be harmful to users.”



Google is slowly integrating its AI into its search engine, much the same way Microsoft integrated Bing into theirs. “I think users will just interact differently with Google and Microsoft’s Bing search,” he says.



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Some professionals may need to think about upskilling or reskilling, and acquiring expertise relevant to their career that AI cannot master. McMinn is confident jobs that do not exist now will emerge in the AI-driven near future. “AI still lacks contextual awareness or metacognitive tasks. Humans will still be important for critical and relative thinking, as well as problem-solving for tasks that are contextual,” he says.


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="500" height="750" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/AI-Robot-with-human-mind_p.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-76274" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/AI-Robot-with-human-mind_p.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/AI-Robot-with-human-mind_p-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/AI-Robot-with-human-mind_p-187x280.jpg 187w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure></div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ethical issues</h3>



There are undoubtedly complex issues surrounding the widespread dissemination of AI. A US lawyer recently admitted to using AI for case research. Part of McMinn’s role at the university is to highlight the ethical implications of such technology and ensure stakeholders are aware of the implications.



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One concern is information bias. The New Scientist recently highlighted the implications of how ChatGPT and GPT-4 are more familiar with books that appear online. “Always be cognisant that these tools are inherently biased,” says McMinn. “Much of the bias is inherited by the data sets used to train the AI tools, but also the content policies developed by the companies. Most of these biases are unintentional, but they are there.”



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Since misinformation spread at a rapid rate will have societal implications, institutions and companies need to develop clear AI policies and guidelines for their stakeholders. Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak recently said AI may make scams harder to spot.



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“I do also worry that these tools may reinforce echo chambers, especially with all the talk of personalising experiences with AI,” says McMinn. “We also need to be mindful that bad actors will use these tools to scam people.”


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="768" height="432" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/AI-Robot-and-Human-Hand_p.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-76278" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/AI-Robot-and-Human-Hand_p.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/AI-Robot-and-Human-Hand_p-200x113.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/AI-Robot-and-Human-Hand_p-498x280.jpg 498w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Being human</h3>



Educator Svetlana Chigaeva-Heddad has been exploring the capabilities and limitations of ChatGPT and other Gen AI technology. “I cannot emphasise enough how important it is to think through the process of engaging with these tools and reflecting on what our engagement with these tools means for us as humans and for our agency in the future,” she says.



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Pointing out the connection between language and thought, she adds: “Given that generative AI tools are based on human language, is it really impossible to imagine that there may be artificial general intelligence which will be able to think like humans and perform tasks at the highest levels that we currently assume to be unique to humans?”

Transform or Die: Now a chatter of fact not science fiction, AI is changing the human experience

Lo and Behold… The highlights of the life of Jennifer Cheng Lo never do less than impress

<div style="width: 640px;" class="wp-video">
<video class="wp-video-shortcode" id="video-67758-1" width="640" height="360" autoplay="1" preload="metadata" controls="controls"><source type="video/mp4" src="https://www.igafencu.com/video/2209/2209_GMHK_Interview_AlbertSo.mp4?_=1" /><a href="https://www.igafencu.com/video/2209/2209_GMHK_Interview_AlbertSo.mp4">https://www.igafencu.com/video/2209/2209_GMHK_Interview_AlbertSo.mp4</a></video></div>
Law practitioner, regulator, professor and technology whizz, multifaceted legal brain Albert So talks arbitration, money-laundering within the blockchain and robo-law, a deep learning AI technology&#8230;
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67898" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-1.jpg" alt="people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-1" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-1.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-1-200x258.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-1-217x280.jpg 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-1-120x155.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-1-400x515.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
How did you get into law? 
My first degree was in computer science, but I took some elective social science subjects including law. It was then that I discovered my interest in the subject and pursued a second degree in law at King’s College London before studying business law at the University of Cambridge. I then went on to Harvard Kennedy School in the US for my research degree in investment law.
You are the founder and Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Mediation and Arbitration Centre. How did that come about? 
I started my professional experience in Canary Wharf, London, where I learnt about regulatory issues and commonwealth jurisdictions, then I returned to Hong Kong just before the global economic crisis and the collapse of the Lehman Brothers. At the time, I was a regulator doing investigative work on money laundering and financial disputes, but because the incident involved so many complainants and victims, and the caseload was tremendous, and nobody knew then what financial dispute resolution or mediation were, it called for civil justice reform.
That was when [in 2009] the Hong Kong Mediation and Arbitration Centre (HKMAAC) was founded. Traditionally these cases would have been brought to court for litigation; however, with the founding of the HKMAAC, we would instead try to settle disputes by arbitration, or alternative dispute resolution. It’s a means to handle financial disputes to omit the high legal costs of going to court, the long waiting time, and overall, coming to a solution that would be beneficial for all parties.
At the time of its inception, we were only 15 regulators, today we are probably more than 40,000 students, mediators, arbitrators, as well as graduates that have undertaken our arbitration training. We also provide about 10 scholarships at different local universities including the University of Hong Kong (HKU), the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67896" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-3.jpg" alt="people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-3" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-3.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-3-200x258.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-3-217x280.jpg 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-3-120x155.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-3-400x515.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
You also teach law. Is teaching something you have always been passionate about? 
Soon after founding the HKMAAC, I took up teaching posts at several universities in Hong Kong, including teaching anti-money laundering at HKU, and teaching students and doctors at CUHK about the legalities of wealth succession planning. I love to teach, but I also want to share my own practical experience from work. I can see the value in sharing first-hand experiences, real case studies, market trends, and the challenges, questions and objections of clients and how to solve problems effectively given each unique situation.
So, this is why I love teaching, however if I had to choose [between teaching and practising the law], I don’t think I could do one without the other. If I were solely a practitioner, it would be a waste not to share my professional knowledge. On the other hand, I could not do traditional teaching work at the university without any practical experience. Anybody can teach theories, but I believe a good educator is very likely a very good practitioner as well.
<blockquote>
“Anybody can teach theories, but I believe a good educator is very likely a very good practitioner as well”
</blockquote>
You have since co-founded your own law firm and followed paths outside the courtroom. Tell us more. 
I co-founded AC Lawyers with my partner Carina Chan. I am Chairman of the Wealth Succession Planning Association, and Dean of the California University School of Business Law and Technology. I’m also an honorary legal advisor for several NGOs in the city and I am leading a few legal robo-advisory services for the community. I currently fund a legal technology project for the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. It is basically a robo-lawyer.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67897" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-2.jpg" alt="people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-2" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-2.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-2-200x258.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-2-217x280.jpg 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-2-120x155.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-2-400x515.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
That sounds intriguing. Could you explain what exactly is a robo-lawyer? 
Since my first degree was in technology, I am still very interested in this field. A robo-lawyer is basically a deep-analysis AI that will allow potential clients to enquire about legal matters, and practitioners to do the most value-added legal work. It does the more tedious and routine tasks such as drafting contracts from scratch and answering questions regarding the law, for example, if it is possible to settle different assets in various countries with one will, or if one is required to pay inheritance tax in a certain country. Of course, this won’t replace the practitioners and the paperwork that requires careful attention to detail, but it will help save precious time, lower legal costs, and reduce embarrassing situations in some cases.
How far away are we from having a robo-lawyer? 
We still have a long way to go. The project is not mature enough to commercialise. Unlike customer-service AI and concierge support which utilise simple AI technology for answering questions and providing information without much deep analysis, in law, questions and answers are not straightforward. It may be for the better that we have this time to explore and continue to improve the development of this kind of technology – but I think it would be an amazing thing for the law industry.
<blockquote>
“A robo-lawyer won’t replace the practitioners, but it will help save precious time, lower legal costs, and reduce embarrassing situations in some cases”
</blockquote>
As a former regulator, what is your opinion of cryptocurrency investments? 
It’s a very hot topic in the industry, not only for citizens but for corporations as well, and in particular in the wealth succession planning industry because before the emergence of cryptocurrency, we would do a lot of traditional investment in antiques, art, gold and diamonds.
However, investing in NFTs and cryptocurrency can be too volatile to predict. The value fluctuates a lot and makes it difficult for investors to foresee the future of this new investment method.
I personally love blockchain technology and the idea of decentralisation behind it, but from a regulatory perspective, there can be challenges and loopholes that raise alarms, especially when it comes to criminal activities and money-laundering issues. The problem arises when tracking the transactions of these individuals or syndicates as the blockchain is anonymous in nature. So, from a regulatory perspective, appropriate or suitable regulations may be a good thing for future development.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67895" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-4.jpg" alt="people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-4" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-4.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-4-200x258.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-4-217x280.jpg 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-4-120x155.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/people-interview-albertso-mediation-and-arbitration-centre-nfts-robo-lawyer-hongkong-4-400x515.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
What can the Hong Kong government do to further progress the cryptocurrency market? 
I think the government can further the progress of cryptocurrency in the city by minimising platform risk. Platforms at the moment will hold cryptocurrency and NFT assets for clients. However, there is a chance that they can mismanage the assets or lose the device which holds the assets, which is why we need consumer protection.
There is also the issue of money laundering due to the anonymity of the transactions within the blockchain, which poses a problem for the government and regulators, but if we have suitable supervision, we can do things well. The Securities and Futures Commission’s proposed licensing registration for platforms running crypto businesses is a good solution, as this doesn’t strictly prohibit NFTs and cryptocurrency investments, but provides some degree of consumer protection. It strikes a fair balance for both sides to get the best of both worlds.
What’s your favourite way to relax? 
Before the Covid-19 pandemic, I loved travelling. It’s very important to go outside the bounds of what you are familiar with to see more things, meet more people and broaden your perspective. It’s not only good for your health, but also for your way of thinking and assimilating ideas. It would be pointless, however, for me to take a long vacation because clients will always call for decisions and advice, so I remind myself to take time for myself and that rest is for the longer journey ahead.
I love working in the city, but living in the countryside. Some of the activities I enjoy are punting, canoeing, boating and generally being out in nature.
Thank you.
&nbsp;
Interview by: Roberliza Eugenio; Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan; Venue: Farrington Interiors Ltd.

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Civil justice champion Albert So on arbitration, blockchain, AI, and more…

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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67555" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-2.png" alt="Dorelan premium Italian mattresses athletes comeptitive sport recovery quality sleep comfort durability support 2" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-2.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-2-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-2-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-2-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-2-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-2-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-2-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Olympic Mattress 
The Italian designer has been producing ergonomic mattresses, bed bases and pillows for over 50 years, without ever compromising on comfort. In 2006, it was the designated mattress for the Olympic Village of the Turin Winter Olympics.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67551" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-vincenbaltour-de-france-winner.png" alt="Dorelan premium Italian mattresses athletes comeptitive sport recovery quality sleep comfort durability support vincenbaltour de france winner" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-vincenbaltour-de-france-winner.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-vincenbaltour-de-france-winner-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-vincenbaltour-de-france-winner-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-vincenbaltour-de-france-winner-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-vincenbaltour-de-france-winner-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-vincenbaltour-de-france-winner-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-vincenbaltour-de-france-winner-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/letour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(2014 winner of the Tour de France, Vincenzo Nibali visiting Dorelan)</a>
Since then, it has continued its collaborative spirit with the sports world, joining forces with international competitive teams, athletes, doctors and trainers to study, analyse, and compare statistical data to ensure the best quality of mattress for the best quality of sleep.&nbsp;
Science-backed quality 
The brand believes that sleep is the most natural road to recovery and well-being. The energy and focus one has throughout the day is directly affected by the quality of sleep. Combining research, technology, tradition, innovation and aesthetic together, it sets the highest professional standards for itself.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67552" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-4.png" alt="Dorelan premium Italian mattresses athletes comeptitive sport recovery quality sleep comfort durability support 4" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-4.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-4-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-4-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-4-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-4-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-4-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-4-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Crafted with superior quality materials from Italy, the brand carefully sources only the finest and most excellent products certified by leading international bodies. Its unique and cutting-edge bed systems offer pressure-sensitive mattresses and pillows that supports the alignment of the spine by evenly distributing weight across the mattress — providing ultimate comfort for pain relief, protection and support during sleep.&nbsp;
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67556" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-regen-yoga.jpg" alt="Dorelan premium Italian mattresses athletes comeptitive sport recovery quality sleep comfort durability support regen yoga" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-regen-yoga.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-regen-yoga-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-regen-yoga-600x399.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-regen-yoga-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-regen-yoga-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-regen-yoga-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dorelan-premium-Italian-mattresses-athletes-comeptitive-sport-recovery-quality-sleep-comfort-durability-support-regen-yoga-400x266.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Purchasing a mattress for wellness is an invaluable investment. Especially if you are putting your investment in a brand that puts your needs ahead of anything else. Never compromising on quality for easier solutions, and never cutting corners, Dorelan&#8217;s mission &#8220;improve lives of people today, tomorrow and always&#8221; has been the backbone of its over five decades of passion and dedication to cultivating good sleep.
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For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hkdorelan.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.hkdorelan.com</a>.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/dorelan-premium-mattress-wellness-sustainability-quality-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dorelan puts wellness at the forefront of its premium mattress production</a>
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Dorelan premium Italian mattresses athletes comeptitive sport recovery quality sleep comfort durability support

Dorelan makes premium Italian mattresses for professional athletes

Technology has always been the essence of fashion. At a commercial level, consumers do not pay that much attention to the meaning the clothes convey upon purchasing – unmindful that fashion and technology comes hand in hand. The fast-paced progress of technology complements fashion’s ever-evolving aesthetic and landscape. As a result, artificial intelligence is pushing its way to the forefront of the fashion industry, bringing forth a new era of garment manufacturing and sustainable production. This not only offers fresh looks and ground-breaking fabrics, but the opportunity to step forward in practicing clean, sustainable and eco-friendly living.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67242" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-7.png" alt="feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu (7)" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-7.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-7-200x258.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-7-217x280.png 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-7-120x155.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-7-400x515.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
Shifting Silhouettes 
Traditionally, clothes are created with the basic knowledge of hydraulics for function purposes and design, making it as much a field for technological innovation as an arena of style. Technological advances continue to underpin fashion, taking garment design and manufacturing technologies dramatically forward, to the extent that clothing can now be computerised, and computers can in turn create garments to be worn.
As new automated processes and techniques start to replace human skills, future notions of what fashion can achieve will be radically different from the current ones. Innovations such as laser-cut fabric technology, body scanning and nanotechnology with temperature-sensitive textiles, no-wash fabrics and phase-change materials (which stores and releases heat), are state-of-the-art technology that improve functionality as well as fit.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67243" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu.png" alt="feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-200x258.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-217x280.png 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-120x155.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-400x515.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
As often seen in lifestyle brands such as Nike and Lululemon, a new style of technologised clothing, also commonly known as ‘techwear’ or ‘wearables’. These are garments that are developed based on technological principles that also follow current fashion trends. With computers practically sewn into modern day garbs, clothing may be just another means of storing data in the future. Although today’s garments are conceived as individual structures, the technological interfaces that characterise these acoutrements will make fabrics a part of the global system in the future – proving fashion is more than just a façade.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67237" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-2.png" alt="feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu (2)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-2.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-2-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-2-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-2-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-2-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-2-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-2-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
The future of fashion will deliver more than a technological portal, making garments inextricably intertwined with one’s experience of wearing them. In fact, many fields of design are already exploring sustainable textile, fabcrics inspired by biomimicry is one example, allowing garments to thicken in autumn and slim down in spring – making linings and layers unnecessary. Some innovations are created with the aim of prolonging the garments’ lifespan. Forever clean fabrics and ‘sweat-proof’ shirts will transform clothing from wash-and-wear into self-cleaning or non-wash materials. As a result, seams will stop twisting out of shape and detailing will no longer fray or disintegrate, allowing clothes to look fresher for longer and giving them an extended life. Hence, well-tailored garments will continue to prevail, while throwaway chic may soon be obsolete.
Clothes Beyond Clout 
The word sustainability has been dominating the fashion industry long before the term ‘woke’ made its way into our everyday vocabulary.Whether it is re-purposing used and old materials or simply opting for a much more eco-friendly alternatives, there are many ways to make an impact that are better for the earth, while still enjoyin the aesthetic fashion allows. However, it is easier said than done as sustainability has become somewhat of a marketing ploy for some major brands.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67241" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-6.png" alt="feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu (6)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-6.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-6-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-6-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-6-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-6-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-6-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-6-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
So, what exactly does sustainable fashion ential? It means eco-friendly practices on multiple levels across the industry, referencing the approach of design, production and consumption of clothes and accessories that avoid causing little to no damage to the earth, and in turn creating an industry practice that is sustainable for the environment. In an industry not always known for its transparency, consumers may look to brands that put an emphasis on transparency in their supply chain.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67240" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-5.png" alt="feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu (5)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-5.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-5-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-5-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-5-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-5-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-5-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-5-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
A leading example is Stella McCartney. She has earned public appreciation for her epynomous label’s business model and brand DNA that put sustainability, fair trade and anti-animal cruelty at the forefront of its production and supply chain long before sustainability was a hot topic.
Never mixing sustainability with non-sustainable components, while also excludeing products made from leather, fur and PVC. In 2005, the brand collaborated with sneaker giant Adidas to create ‘Adidas by Stella McCartney,’ a collection of sustainable sneakers and activewear that pushed the boundaries of what it meant to create an open and green ethos. In 2014, the brand launched Clevercare, a five-step labelling system that provides guided information on maintaining clothes – reducing waste and making each item a timeless piece.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67239" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-4.png" alt="feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu (4)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-4.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-4-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-4-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-4-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-4-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-4-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-4-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
More than just a high-fashion designer, Vivienne Westwood is also an activist that champions eco-friendly luxury fashion. In her Fall 2022 collection, the creative team opted for eorganic cotton, recycled polyester and nylon, as well as natural fabrics, led by the motto ‘Buy less, choose well, make it last’ at its core. According to the company website, they emphasise on making clothes with greater care, promoting arts and culture, while trying to mobilise people around climate change and human rights.&nbsp;These star examples pave the way for luxury fashion to take an ethical approach and move the needle in the right direction. With room for growth, the path forward cannot be an all-or-nothing approach.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67235" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-600x337.jpg" alt="feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu 600x337" width="600" height="337" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-600x337.jpg 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-600x337-200x112.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-600x337-499x280.jpg 499w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-600x337-120x67.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-600x337-500x281.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu-600x337-400x225.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />
Fashion Forward and Onward 
On the other side of fashion’s future horizon, ‘life-cycle’ clothing is inspiring a new paradigm for fashion retail. Thrusting upcycled garments to the top of consumer goods, this practice takes old garments apart, remake them into entirely new fashion pieces that surpass their second-hand status and give them the same prestige as brand new clothings.
Fashion retail as we know it is already exploring a future in which consumers can contribute to the production cycle. No longer limited to the shelves of boutiques, consumers are taking a more active role in the creation process. As fashion companies depart from conventional retail, they are establishing fresh forums that enable brands to communicate with their consumers effectively, transforming their relationship with clothes – physically and emotionally. This reflects our ever evolving connection to fashion and technology.
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(Text: Joseff Musa)

feature-smart-fashion-luxury-fashion-technology-gafencu 600x337

Smart Fashion: Marrying luxury fashion with the latest in technology

As the pandemic forces us to spend more time indoors, there is a huge interest in elevating the sound system at home. Choosing the best audio set-up can be tricky — whether you&#8217;re creating an at-home theater system of your dreams or simply upgrading the&nbsp;built-in smart speakers, we&#8217;ve got options and easy on the wallet too. Scroll on&#8230;&nbsp;
<h3>Best All-Around Smart Speakers</h3>
<figure id="attachment_64655" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-64655" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-64655 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bang-Olufsen-beoplay-A9-4th-gen.png" alt="Top at-home speakers for an elevated cinematic experience gafencu bang &amp; Olufsen beoplay A9 4th gen" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bang-Olufsen-beoplay-A9-4th-gen.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bang-Olufsen-beoplay-A9-4th-gen-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bang-Olufsen-beoplay-A9-4th-gen-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bang-Olufsen-beoplay-A9-4th-gen-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bang-Olufsen-beoplay-A9-4th-gen-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bang-Olufsen-beoplay-A9-4th-gen-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bang-Olufsen-beoplay-A9-4th-gen-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-64655" class="wp-caption-text">(Photo: Bang &amp; Olufsen)</figcaption></figure>
Bang &amp; Olufsen Beoplay A9 4th Gen&nbsp;
First on the list is Danish audio luxury brand Bang &amp; Olufsen&#8217;s Beoplay A9 4th Generation. Adding to its predecessors&#8217; existing features, such as a full-range of connectivity, multi-room synchronization and a seven-driver-strong build with a high-performance engine, the 4th Gen Beoplay wireless home speaker comes with active room compensation technology that adapts to the ambiance of the room. It balances bass, treble and mid-range outputs outstandingly with no distortion.&nbsp;But even more striking here is its stunning Scandinavian design that highlights a minimalist aesthetic and its elegant solid wood legs.
Price:&nbsp;HK$25,800 
Pro: Clean and loud audio; elegant design 
Cons:&nbsp;B&amp;O setup app could use improvement 
Find out more <a href="https://www.bang-olufsen.com/en/us/speakers/beoplay-a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<h3>Best for Home Cinema</h3>
<figure id="attachment_64657" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-64657" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-64657" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bose-smart-soundbar-900.png" alt="Top at-home speakers for an elevated cinematic experience gafencu bose smart soundbar 900" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bose-smart-soundbar-900.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bose-smart-soundbar-900-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bose-smart-soundbar-900-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bose-smart-soundbar-900-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bose-smart-soundbar-900-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bose-smart-soundbar-900-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bose-smart-soundbar-900-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-64657" class="wp-caption-text">(Photo: Bose)</figcaption></figure>
Bose Smart Soundbar 900&nbsp;
Presented in sleek 104.5cm x 5.81cm x 10.7cm, the Smart Soundbar 900 by American audio tech company Bose, although slim in structure, does not skimp on quality. Subtly mount it underneath your flat screen or upon a shelf&nbsp; — no matter its position, the intelligently engineered sound system creates an immersive soundscape making you feel like the action is happening right in your own living room.&nbsp;Bringing details to life, the smart soundbar highlights the brand&#8217;s exclusive&nbsp;TrueSpace audio processing technology that analyses non-Atmos content (such as stereo or 5.1) and up-mixes the sound quality to create a more dynamic and multi-layered cinematic atmosphere. And for a truly immersive audio experience at home, the device synchronises any Bose smart-home headphones and smart speakers via SimpleSync.
Price: HK$10,000 
Pro:&nbsp;Impressive clarity and details; supports Dolby Atmos; slim and subtly fits on the shelf or underneath the TV 
Cons:&nbsp;It&#8217;s only flaw is that it is slightly larger than its previous 500 model 
Find out more <a href="https://www.bose.hk/en_hk/products/speakers/home_theater/bose-smart-soundbar-900.html?mc=29_PS_9S_GM_00_GO_SEMEN&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAsNKQBhAPEiwAB-I5zXZDaQuqbmP25NBtLUoJhEMcNS8yUcEI-T6LK88i5QmoCLLdyMHycBoCDJIQAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds#v=bose_smart_soundbar_900_black_gb_ie">here</a>.
<h3>Best for 360-degree Audio</h3>
<figure id="attachment_64660" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-64660" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-64660" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-pantheon-I.png" alt="Top at-home speakers for an elevated cinematic experience gafencu pantheon I" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-pantheon-I.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-pantheon-I-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-pantheon-I-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-pantheon-I-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-pantheon-I-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-pantheon-I-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-pantheon-I-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-64660" class="wp-caption-text">(Photo: Panteone I)</figcaption></figure>
Pantheone I
At first glance, one might think that the Pantheone I is an sculptural piece set to elevate the aesthetic of the home, and perhaps that is exactly what the Australian design firm had aimed for in creating this&nbsp;high-performance audio accessory. Fusing form and functionality while powered by state-of-the-art technology that&nbsp;boasts impressively loud output and deep base without fall short on audio quality. Sound and modern art come together in its smooth and robustly curvaceous structure and impressive engineering that allows its hidden hardware to produce exceptional 360-degree soundstage. Good enough to fill a large room.
Price:&nbsp;HK$22,206 
Pro:&nbsp;It has an impressive volume and sound quality for its size and structure; doubles as a sculptural piece for the home.&nbsp; 
Cons:&nbsp;It is heavy (25kg) and design may blend easily in every home.&nbsp; 
Find out more <a href="https://www.pantheoneaudio.com/pantheone/">here</a>.
<h3>Best for Streaming</h3>
<figure id="attachment_64658" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-64658" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-64658" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bowers-wilkins-formation-wedge.png" alt="Top at-home speakers for an elevated cinematic experience gafencu bowers wilkins formation wedge" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bowers-wilkins-formation-wedge.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bowers-wilkins-formation-wedge-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bowers-wilkins-formation-wedge-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bowers-wilkins-formation-wedge-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bowers-wilkins-formation-wedge-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bowers-wilkins-formation-wedge-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-bowers-wilkins-formation-wedge-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-64658" class="wp-caption-text">(Photo: Bowers &amp; Wilkins Formation Wedge)</figcaption></figure>
Bowers Wilkins Formation Wedge&nbsp;
British manufacturer Bowers Wilkins&nbsp;delivers room-filling audio systems. If you think the Formation Wedge looks good, just wait until you read what it has under its hood. Strategically placed and angled for optimum sound quality, its drivers (two&nbsp;2.5 cm aluminum dome tweeters, a 9 cm woofer underneath, and a 15 cm subwoofer) provide outstanding sound clarity without any interference among the drivers, despite its relatively small stature — providing excellent high-resolution audio quality. In place of physical controls, the Wedge features illuminating touch-sensitive controls for volume and play/pause modes.&nbsp;
Price: HK$8,999 
Pro:&nbsp;Supports integral stream services; stylish design and excellent sound quality 
Cons: No remote control;&nbsp; dedicate app and streaming services are&nbsp; 
Find out more <a href="https://www.bowerswilkins.com/formation/wedge" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<h3>Best for Power</h3>
<figure id="attachment_64659" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-64659" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-64659" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-Devialet-Phantom-I-103-db.png" alt="Top at-home speakers for an elevated cinematic experience gafencu Devialet Phantom I 103 db" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-Devialet-Phantom-I-103-db.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-Devialet-Phantom-I-103-db-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-Devialet-Phantom-I-103-db-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-Devialet-Phantom-I-103-db-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-Devialet-Phantom-I-103-db-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-Devialet-Phantom-I-103-db-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-at-home-speakers-for-an-elevated-cinematic-experience-gafencu-Devialet-Phantom-I-103-db-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-64659" class="wp-caption-text">(Photo: Devialet Phantom I 103 dB)</figcaption></figure>
Devialet Phantom I 103 dB
There&#8217;s nothing like moving to your favourite track, and with French audio expert Devialet&#8217;s Phantom, you can rest assured that audio quality on this device will not fall short. Boasting an immense output from it powered by high-fidelity and ultra-dense sound in a compact design. It is digitally powered, analog-grade audio technology pumps out ultra-deep bass, thanks to its&nbsp;HBI® Heart Bass Implosion, and produces stunning clarity — capturing every detail and bringing the concert to your home. Moreover, it arrives in a gorgeous glass fibre polycarbonate casing that presents a&nbsp;modernist style fit for any stylish home.&nbsp;
Price: HK$12,990 
Pro: Powerful and outstanding bass and clarity even at high volume; captures the slightest details that lower-end speakers cannot 
Cons: Not the most subtle external design for minimalist homes 
Find out more <a href="https://www.devialet.com/en-hk/phantom-speaker/phantom-i/phantom-i-103db-light-chrome/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
&nbsp;

Top at-home speakers for an elevated cinematic experience gafencu

Top at-home speakers for an elevated cinematic experience

<div style="width: 640px;" class="wp-video"><video class="wp-video-shortcode" id="video-63521-2" width="640" height="360" autoplay="1" preload="metadata" controls="controls"><source type="video/mp4" src="https://www.igafencu.com/video/2201/2201_GMHK_Interview_TimothyYu.mp4?_=2" /><a href="https://www.igafencu.com/video/2201/2201_GMHK_Interview_TimothyYu.mp4">https://www.igafencu.com/video/2201/2201_GMHK_Interview_TimothyYu.mp4</a></video></div>
Tech trailblazer Timothy Yu matches students with questions to professionals who can answer them, without ever needing to meet face-to-face.
Did personal experience factor into the birth of your start-up, Snapask? 
Yes, definitely. When I was in college, I used to spend a lot of my time tutoring students, so it was part of daily life to travel door-to-door between home tutoring sessions. Around the same time, I also began creating teaching videos and posting them on Facebook. I initially thought to ask people to pay to get this content, but quickly realised that there was no demand for such things. Then, in the comments section, I would often be asked specific questions, so I began charging to answer them instead. That’s pretty much what sparked the idea for Snapask. Funnily enough, it was my first company as well as my first job, and I started it when I was just a second-year student [at the University of Hong Kong].
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-63556 size-full aligncenter" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-1.png" alt="timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-1" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-1.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-1-200x300.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-1-186x280.png 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-1-120x180.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-1-400x601.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
What exactly is Snapask? 
The initial idea of Snapask was to connect students who need help with someone who is qualified, vetted and capable of answering questions that pop up during their day-to-day studies. It’s almost like Uber for tutoring. Students take a photo of their problem, and we automatically connect them digitally with a qualified tutor within 30 seconds, and they can then have a one-on-one discussion about it. It’s an app that supports students whenever they need an answer.
We started in Hong Kong in 2015, and we’ve accumulated about 4.5 million students on the platform. Today, we’re in nine different markets, including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and other Southeast Asian countries. We didn’t want to give our clients the additional stress of trying to figure out if they can afford to ask that next question, so they pay a monthly fee, and it’s pretty much like a buffet where they can reach out to any number of tutors and have unlimited access to our educational video library.
The idea is to make our platform attractive not only to the students, but also to the parents who are footing the bill. It’s kind of like online shopping in a way, because once you experience the convenience and efficiency of this kind of home learning, especially when compared to travelling to a tutorial centre or calling a teacher to your home once or twice a week, then you realise it’s a better way to get what you need.
<blockquote>
“It’s pretty much like a buffet where [students] can reach out to any number of tutors and have unlimited access to our educational video library” 
</blockquote>
How does Snapask supplement the traditional education system? 
In fact, there are a lot of inefficiencies in the education system today, since even after students have spent an entire day at school, they need to follow it up with evenings at tutorial centres and such for additional exam preparation. Most of them may not have access to a private tutor, and they can’t wait around for a day to go back and ask the teacher. So, Snapask steps into that gap by always connecting them to someone who can help.
At the same time, we are also creating a lot of high-quality supplemental content on a wide range of topics. It’s similar to MasterClass [the US-based online education subscription platform]. We build bite-sized topic-specific videos. For example, if a student is struggling with trigonometry, they can take a look at that to gain a better grasp of the subject matter. We don’t just post videos of teachers with a whiteboard; we try to approach it in a more effective way.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/will-lam-managing-director-of-high-fashion-international-group/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stitching Sustainability with Innovation: Will Lam, MD, High Fashion International Group</a>
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-63557 size-full aligncenter" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-2.png" alt="timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-2" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-2.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-2-200x300.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-2-186x280.png 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-2-120x180.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-2-400x601.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
How do you vet your tutors? 
Our teachers are all graduates from top universities – that’s a must. They first have to submit their university qualifications and transcripts, and we verify that their identities are authentic. At the end of the day, we are working with a lot of underage students, so their safety and security is the number one concern for us.
In addition, our tutors not only have a very high achievement profile, but backed by artificial intelligence machine learning they also understand how well they are serving our students via user ratings, platform ratings, as well as tutor-to-tutor ratings. This ensures only the good ones remain.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-63558 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-3.png" alt="timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-3" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-3.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-3-200x300.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-3-186x280.png 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-3-120x180.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-3-400x601.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
What projects do you have lined up this year? 
As we have a lot of virtual learning on our platform, our first priority is to enable personalisation in learning. Right now, we’re collecting a lot of data on how students are learning, and we are trying to apply AI technology to suggest personalised recommendations to ensure each individual learn in the most efficient fashion.
Then, we’re strongly pushing our development of proprietary teaching videos. In fact, I am personally creating some of the content as the teacher – specifically in mathematics – so I’ll be making roughly 180 online videos this year. There’s also a new partnership coming up with a local TV channel, and we’ll be launching our programmes on air through that platform as well.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-63559 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-4.png" alt="timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-4" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-4.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-4-200x300.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-4-186x280.png 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-4-120x180.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-4-400x601.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
How has the pandemic affected your business? 
When Covid hit Hong Kong in February 2020, we were about to close a round of fundraising, so many investors were calling in to see how we would deal with it. At the same time, it was announced that schools would be closed indefinitely, so we were in a major state of flux. Thankfully, we managed to handle the situation by being as transparent as possible, and reassuring investors that with the shutdown, home learning would become the only educational option, rather than an alternative as it had been in the past.
In the first couple of months, we did experience a dip as students went on ‘holiday’, but by summertime, some schools had reopened in Hong Kong and we saw traffic pick back up. Of course, in some of our markets Covid hadn’t yet had a major impact, so things pretty much were running as usual.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-63560 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-5.png" alt="timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-5" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-5.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-5-200x300.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-5-186x280.png 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-5-120x180.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong-5-400x601.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
What do you like to do during your downtime? 
To be honest, between running Snapask and creating teaching videos, I don’t have much time left over. That said, right behind my desk in my office, there’s a small room which is almost like a greenhouse because I like to do gardening. In particular, I plant Pachypodium gracilius, which is a super exotic-looking root-like plant native to Madagascar. I personally find a lot of parallels between gardening and education, because some plants can take 10 years to mature, and likewise, learning can be a decades-long process.
<blockquote>
“I find parallels between gardening and education, because some plants can take 10 years to mature, and likewise, learning can be a decades-long process”
</blockquote>
If you were stuck on a desert island, what is the one thing you’d need to bring with you? 
I’d definitely need to bring some paper or a notebook to jot down my thoughts. I believe ideas can spark at any moment, so it’s important to be able to write them down when it happens.
Finally, tell us something most people don’t know about you. 
There was a time in college when I seriously considered becoming a chef. In my mind, I was torn between pursuing a culinary or majoring in mathematics. Ultimately, as an Asian child, there are always some expectations and I felt like mathematics was the more responsible option.
Thank you.
&nbsp;
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/interview-stephan-pudwill-techtronic-industries-tti/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Power Player: Stephan Pudwill on taking over the reigns of his family business</a>
<h6>Interview: Tenzing Thondup Photos: Jack Law Art Direction: Jhoshwa Ledesma Videographer: Kes Lei Venue: Roche Bobois Showroom, Horizon Plaza</h6>

timothy-yu-snapask-reaches-8-markets-asia-gafencu-hongkong

Timothy Yu’s Snapask reaches eight markets in Asia, aiding 4.5m students!

<div style="width: 640px;" class="wp-video"><video class="wp-video-shortcode" id="video-59877-3" width="640" height="360" autoplay="1" preload="metadata" controls="controls"><source type="video/mp4" src="https://www.igafencu.com/video/2108/2108_GMHK_Interview_WillLam.mp4?_=3" /><a href="https://www.igafencu.com/video/2108/2108_GMHK_Interview_WillLam.mp4">https://www.igafencu.com/video/2108/2108_GMHK_Interview_WillLam.mp4</a></video></div>
&nbsp;
Picking up on a family passion, Will Lam has raised the bar in intelligent, responsible garment manufacturing. The Managing Director of High Fashion International Group cuts to the chase, advocating innovation, education and the occasional game of chess…
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/gafencu-magazine-people-interview-will-lam-high-fashion-centre-WDistrict-office.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-59887" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/gafencu-magazine-people-interview-will-lam-high-fashion-centre-WDistrict-office.jpg" alt="gafencu magazine people interview will lam high fashion centre WDistrict office" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/gafencu-magazine-people-interview-will-lam-high-fashion-centre-WDistrict-office.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/gafencu-magazine-people-interview-will-lam-high-fashion-centre-WDistrict-office-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/gafencu-magazine-people-interview-will-lam-high-fashion-centre-WDistrict-office-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/gafencu-magazine-people-interview-will-lam-high-fashion-centre-WDistrict-office-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/gafencu-magazine-people-interview-will-lam-high-fashion-centre-WDistrict-office-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/gafencu-magazine-people-interview-will-lam-high-fashion-centre-WDistrict-office-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/gafencu-magazine-people-interview-will-lam-high-fashion-centre-WDistrict-office-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
Your family has more than 40 years of experience in the fashion industry. What does fashion mean to you? 
From a business perspective, I think fashion, simply put, is to fulfil desires. It’s about understanding the constantly changing market and what customers want ­– listening to and meeting those demands.&nbsp;
Fashion is ever changing and I’ve had time to build up my knowledge of the industry. Both my parents started fashion businesses, so I was exposed to it early on in life. From a young age, I spent a lot of time watching my parents gain insight into the world of fashion; even our Sundays were spent together visiting brands for a better understanding of the market.
What path did your education take, and how has it impacted your professional life? 
I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance at the Chinese University of Hong Kong before completing my Master’s at one of the most prestigious institutions in the United States, Princeton University. Both experiences were very beneficial to my personal and professional growth. I was especially impressed by the engagement and interactive discussions between students and professors when I was in Princeton University. The students were very intelligent and the professors were supportive; this helped mould how I run my own company.
For the past decade, you’ve been the top management of High Fashion, the company founded by your father. Did you have other career aspirations growing up or did you always see yourself within the family fold? 
I was quite heavily influenced by both my parents. They were both entrepreneurs, and I think witnessing them build their businesses from scratch inspired me to run a business myself.&nbsp;
But beyond the fashion industry, I love the technology industry. In fact, our company – as well as my family and I, on a personal level – has invested in several start-ups. We develop ecovation programmes that help young entrepreneurs aspiring to start big businesses. I love new ideas that contribute to innovative business models to transform industries – not only in fashion but every sector of the economy.
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What have been the major contributing factors to your company’s success? 
High Fashion is the global leader in silk manufacturing and one of Asia’s leaders in sustainability and providing affordable, luxurious garments. We are also a fully vertical supply chain. We provide a one-stop service for all types of customers from all over the world, from textiles to garment production.
I believe that innovation has been the most important factor in our success. Our clients are some of the most well-known brands in the world, and they are constantly looking for unique and creative ways to meet the demands of their consumers. At High Fashion, we seek out new fabrics, new ways of servicing, new re-engineering processes, as well as forms of technologies that allow us to produce a consistent flow of innovative products.
But on top of that, our diverse team has been key to the growth of our business. I believe that having an office culture that nurtures creativity is another important factor for a company’s success. We encourage staff to share new ideas and be open to collaborations, and embrace trial and error as part of the learning process.
Could you give us an example of how creativity and innovation have boosted your business? 
I am always grateful to our staff and their support in growing a successful company. In turn, I feel that it is my responsibility to provide them with the best environment in which to perform and grow. We offer platforms that allow them to continue learning, which is especially important now that we see new businesses disrupting traditional organisations. We like to promote a fast-learning culture that encourages staff to learn about new market trends, visit different exhibitions, take part in seminars and network with other professionals. We also guide them through three to five years of career planning, organise management programmes and sponsor Executive MBA programmes outside of our company.
This allows the team to consistently contribute new and diverse ideas in meetings. It’s a very effective process that we focus on in order to deliver a continuous stream of innovative products.&nbsp;I believe this is one of the reasons why the majority of our staff have stayed loyal to the company – most of them have been with us for more than 20 to 30 years.&nbsp;
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You’re known as a supporter of intelligent garment manufacturing. Can you tell us how this has changed and benefited the company’s productivity? 
I think intelligent garment manufacturing is a trend that will last long into the future. Everyone is talking about the new economy, implying how technology plays a huge role in transforming traditional businesses. Because the garment industry is quite labour intensive, technologies like robotics and digitalisation offer businesses a leg up.
We look for ways to capture different ideas that are imbedded in technologies and apply them to garment manufacturing. In the past few years, we’ve spent a lot of time on automation. We were able to increase our productivity by 30 to 40 percent without having to reduce our labour force. And this is just the beginning: we will continue to learn about integrating automation into garment production. New companies are already adopting automation and advanced technology, which is why I believe technology will be an inevitable transition for the garment business, and will transform traditional companies into faster-growing entities.
Sustainability has become a hot topic in fashion. Could you share your thoughts on the subject? 
Sustainability is the key to a more secure future for the generations to come. We hold great value in the initiative to help our customers transition from less sustainable into more sustainable products. This is where my belief in education comes in. Whenever we work with clients and consumers, we inform them about the importance of sustainability and how we can provide them with sustainable products. For example, incorporating sustainable production processes such as recycling and up-cycling.&nbsp;
Our factory is one of the best known for sustainability; it holds a green-level certification – the highest level in China – and we are one of the few garment factories that uses solar power to recycle energy throughout the production process. Thinking two or three decades into the future and how our business affects the planet, we will introduce new elements of sustainability in our production process and supply chain wherever possible – ensuring more eco-friendly production that avoids excessive waste and reduces the carbon footprint.
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Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has also been a priority for High Fashion. Why do you feel it’s so important to give back? 
I think education is very important; I’m very grateful that I had the opportunity to learn a lot when I was at university. Which is why I feel that it’s important to provide that same exposure to youngsters who have limited resources and avenues in which to develop their interests and career path. We strongly support education by providing opportunities for university students to join exchange programmes overseas. We have also built schools in Asia – China, mainly – such as the High Fashion Women’s Institute in Hangzhou that has offered tertiary fashion education for over 10 years.
What upcoming projects or new initiatives are you most excited about? 
Since 2020, we have been working on WL District, a newly renovated, open shared space that allows CEOs and creatives to collaborate and network. Whether hosting an event or holding an exhibition, we aim to provide a space that allows like-minded individuals to come together with their unique backgrounds, expertise and skills. From the concept to the interior design, we’ve put careful consideration into every aspect of creating a venue that inspires creativity, collaboration and innovation.
What’s your favourite way to relax? Do you have any hobbies? 
My favourite sport is tennis. Before I joined the company, I didn’t do much exercise, but I found that exercising helps me both mentally and physically – I feel more energised and focused. You need to be quite determined and disciplined to do well at tennis, and it’s helped me stick to my routine and improve my efficiency.
I also like chess, a game my father introduced me to when I was a child. Not only does it help with my concentration and problem-solving skills, it’s an activity that I enjoy doing with friends, as we can catch up over a game. Although it might seem mentally strenuous, I actually find it relaxing: it offers me mental clarity.
Thank you.
&nbsp;
Interview: Roberliza Eugenio 
Photographer: Jack Law 
Videographer: Andy Wan 
Art Direction &amp; Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma
Also Read: <a href="//www.gafencushop.com/big-honor-entertainment-veronica-lam/">Interview with Big Honor Entertainment&#8217;s Veronica Lam on continuing her father&#8217;s legacy whilst finding a groove of her own</a>

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