An exhibition titled “Lives Beyond Labour,” showcasing works from a -mobile photography class for foreign domestic workers was held on November 20 and 23, at PMQ [formerly called Police Married Quarters] in Sheung Wan. Alongside the photo displays, it featured workshops led by foreign domestic workers, which provided opportunities for the public to engage with this community.
The exhibition was organised by “Heart to Helpers HK,” a group formed by high school students with the aim of raising awareness of the foreign domestic worker community. It was co-hosted by the Caritas Asian Migrant Workers Social Service Project as well as the Office of Service-Learning of the Lingnan University.
Over the three weekends leading up to the exhibition, 25 foreign domestic workers participated in the Caritas project where they learned mobile photography techniques from expert tutor Jonas Lam. Together with students from Lingnan University, these participants explored various locations across Hong Kong, capturing moments and themes deeply resonant to their lives. The classes emphasized the skill of “photovoice”, that is, storytelling through photography, enabling workers to share their memories and unique life experiences through their art.
The exhibition showcased four primary themes: “Life, Labour, Culture, and Togetherness.” Visitors also had access to a special section that focused on the mental and physical health perspectives of foreign domestic workers.
The exhibition featured three themed workshops aimed at fostering interaction between the public and foreign domestic workers. Participants enjoyed making and tasting traditional snacks, crafting unique photo boxes to preserve memories, and engaging in mask-making to explore the connection between work and personal identity. All workshops encouraged creative expression and cultural sharing.
Following this, a “human library” session featured two Filipino and two Indonesian workers who shared their personal experiences related to their work, life, and healthcare experiences in Hong Kong.
Ella came to Hong Kong as a domestic worker in 2006, navigating challenges like unpaid leave and complaints from her employer’s mother. She learned Cantonese to improve communication, which alleviated some issues. After two years, she returned home but faced the tragic loss of her husband.
Divina, working since 2014, cares for her employer’s children as if they were her own, though she feels the pressure to meet high culinary standards. Despite experiencing family losses during the pandemic, she has transformed her grief into strength by volunteering in her community.
Jen manages the chaotic demands of caring for three children and the household, often working long hours. She finds relief by connecting with friends and family.
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
Meanwhile, Diana, who has worked in Hong Kong since 2009, recounted a difficult experience with a former employer who constantly monitored her. In contrast, she later enjoyed a supportive environment for 11 years, emphasising the need for mutual respect between employers and workers.
Photos and information supplied by Caritas
