My Hong Kong Story: Paul Yang
By Paul Yang, CEO Asia Pacific, BNP Paribas, for HongKongEcho #100.
I fell in love with Hong Kong during my first business trip, 30 years ago. I was impressed with everything, from landing at Kai Tak airport amidst old decrepit buildings to the wonderful skyline of Victoria Harbour. I was fascinated by the fast pace of the city, everyone seemed to rush from one thing to another, maximising efficiency whether at work or after hours, with little time to waste.
Photography by Peter Parks and Anthony Wallace (Agence France-Presse)
Going out for lunch in Central felt like a routine fire drill as I struggled to keep pace with my colleagues navigating the maze of interconnected buildings. Walking the long corridors of the MTR required serious discipline as stopping to glance at something could easily trigger chaos. But I was mesmerised by the energy of Hong Kong and the ‘can do’ spirit of its people. As a young IT professional in Paris, I hoped I could one day work in this amazing city.
"I made my dream come true and, with a little luck, I even made it to the city that had charmed me three decades earlier."
I returned to France and enjoyed my IT role at BNP Paribas for a few years before realising I wanted to become a banker. The Bank advised me to pursue my career in IT, suggesting that if I worked hard, a posting to Hong Kong would not be impossible. But I did not follow that advice. I was convinced that I could be a good banker, if given the chance. Sometimes, when you believe so strongly in something, doors open. I started from scratch, worked hard, determined not to disappoint those who believed in me. I made my dream come true and, with a little luck, I even made it to the city that had charmed me three decades earlier. Besides being a great place to work, Hong Kong turns out to be an amazing place for rest and relaxation. I never thought I would enjoy the long trails around Hong Kong Island, the New Territories and fantastic sea views so much. We all need some luck and supportive mentors, but few things are impossible when you work hard and when you believe.
