Happenings
Beyond Barter: Community, Culture, and the Currency in Small Businesses

Alan Cheung’s session 

Alan Cheung shared a brief overview of One Bite Design Social and the social projects his team is involved with. He discussed his and his team’s experiences and insights on undertaking community design projects. During the workshop sessions, he invited SATA mentees and public observers to engage with card-based tools designed to encourage broader thinking—for example, exploring ways to involve more people in society and make activities more socially engaging. Throughout the process, the mentees continuously brainstormed ideas on how to enhance the social engagement of activities and connect people from diverse identities within the community. The mentees received enhanced support and guidance during this event on integrating their projects with the local community.

Wai’s session

Wai possesses extensive experience in Hong Kong history and research. He delivered a lecture to SATA mentees and public observers on effective research methods, covering topics from sourcing old books and conducting photo research to key considerations for in-person interviews with shop owners.

The second part of the session involved a site visit to Kwong Wah Printing Company, allowing participants to immediately apply the insights from the lecture. We had the privilege of interviewing the company’s boss, gaining a deeper understanding of the industry’s history and the shop’s unique story. Through this first-hand interview, we learned about the recent developments of old shops amid the growing conservation movement. We also had hands-on looking experience with letterpress printing and observed the printing process up close, creating an unforgettable impression for everyone.