8-11-2023 (HONG KONG) In a city dominated by towering skyscrapers and bustling construction sites, a diminutive woman from Chaozhou has made a name for herself in the male-dominated construction industry. Ah Yan, a 35-year-old immigrant from mainland China, has defied stereotypes and secured contracts for construction projects, earning a staggering HK$100,000 per month.
Ah Yan’s journey in the construction industry began six years ago, when she started working as a low-paid labourer on construction sites. With an hourly wage of only HK$700, she worked tirelessly to support herself and her 12-year-old son, who lives with her ex-husband. Over time, she honed her skills and eventually established her own one-person company, securing contracts for specific construction projects.
Despite her delicate appearance, Ah Yan has made a mark in the industry, earning the respect of her colleagues and clients alike. Her long-term dedication to the job is evident in some of her social media posts, where one can catch glimpses of her well-defined abs. However, her journey has not been without challenges.
Ah Yan acknowledges the physical challenges of her work as a thin woman in a labour-intensive job. Initially, it was difficult for her to handle a bag of cement weighing 90 kilograms. However, with time, she built up her strength and adapted to the demands of the job.
Reflecting on her journey, Ah Yan admits that many people find it hard to believe that she works on construction sites, given her petite frame. She reveals, “Many people cannot tell. Even my colleagues on the construction site did not believe it until they saw it with their own eyes.”
Despite her impressive earnings of HK$100,000 per month, Ah Yan has not been able to purchase property in Hong Kong. She currently rents a 500-square-foot unit for HK$14,000 a month. When asked about her savings and the reason behind not owning a property yet, Ah Yan explains that her monthly expenses, including rent and food, consume a significant portion of her income. However, she manages to save around HK$60,000 to 70,000 each month.
Working tirelessly without rest, Ah Yan spends eight hours a day on the construction site. As the sole proprietor of her own company, she states, “Every day is work, work, and more work.” She rarely takes any days off throughout the year.
What motivates her to push herself so hard? Ah Yan reveals, “I work so hard because…,” emphasising her desire to provide a better life for her child, who currently resides with her ex-husband.
During the interview, she admits to feeling exhausted but remains committed to her work. When advised to take more rest given her substantial income, she responds, “If I rest, no one will do it… Our profits are based on the amount of work we complete. It’s all about reaping what you sow!”
Ah Yan’s story serves as an inspiration to all those who dare to dream big, despite the odds. Her determination and hard work have earned her a place in the male-dominated construction industry, and her success is a testament to the power of perseverance. As she continues to break down barriers and defy stereotypes, Ah Yan remains a shining example of what can be achieved with hard work, dedication, and a never-give-up attitude
