As a fashion design student based in Hong Kong, I'm always looking for ways to combine my creative skills with business opportunities. Recently, I came across a session hosted by NTU Student Enterprise that, while focused on the UK context, gave me valuable insights into entrepreneurship possibilities. The event covered topics ranging from spotting market needs to intellectual property protection and funding options. It got me thinking critically about how to potentially apply some of these strategies and best practices locally in Hong Kong, albeit starting small.
One highlight was learning about what exactly defines 'enterprise' - utilizing your skills to solve problems and create value. A longstanding dream of mine has been to open my own knitting brand or workshop to teach knitting skills, as I'm passionate about sustainability and craft. However, starting an enterprise in Hong Kong presents its own unique challenges. Rent and operating costs in Hong Kong are extremely high without stable finances from family or investors. It would be risky to take such a large financial leap. Attracting enough students to make a knitting workshop profitable also seems difficult given Hong Kong's busy lifestyle.
Some options discussed at NTU, like freelancing or running a small sole trader business, could be more achievable starting points for exploring entrepreneurship in Hong Kong. These allow for developing an idea and building name recognition without huge monetary commitments upfront. Selling handmade pieces online or offering individual knitting classes locally could help test interest and demand. Community support also presents a challenge, unlike NTU's abundant resources for UK students. Gaining mentorship from experienced local entrepreneurs in Hong Kong could prove invaluable.
Overall, the NTU session reminded me that creativity and determination alone may not ensure success. Non-business factors like operating environment, costs, guidance and access to funding must also be realistically considered for long-term viability. While my Hong Kong-based dreams remain, it is empowering to keep exploring feasible, carefully tested options through smaller initiatives. Thinking globally but starting locally seems the wise path ahead for a fashion student exploring entrepreneurship from Hong Kong.
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