In brief
Daisy Pak, one of the few women in Hong Kong's bamboo scaffolding scene, reflects on her journey and the significance of her craft as it faces growing competition from metal alternatives. Despite adversity and discrimination, she passionately preserves this cultural tradition.
In the bustling streets of Hong Kong, a shift is underway as bamboo scaffolding—an iconic traditional craft—faces competition from modern metal structures. This change is exemplified by the story of Daisy Pak, a 31-year-old bamboo scaffolding worker who is carving her niche in a male-dominated industry.On a busy May afternoon, Pak prepared for work, transforming bamboo poles into the intricate latticework known throughout the city. Although the use of bamboo scaffolding has diminished across China, it remains a hallmark of Hong Kong's architectural landscape. Pak, who discovered this profession in 2021, has embraced the ancient craft despite her tumultuous past marked by addiction and financial troubles.Pak's journey to become a bamboo master was no easy feat. Traditionally, skills in this trade are passed down through generations, often through mentorship. However, Pak diversified her techniques by collaborating with various employers, overcoming challenges that arose from her stature and lack of experience. "I was born with the will to prove people wrong," she asserted, demonstrating her determination to excel in her craft.Her efforts have not gone unchallenged; she has faced skepticism and harassment on the job, as her colleagues sometimes undermined her capabilities. Nevertheless, her resilience drives her to push through the obstacles, and she has found community and fulfillment in the unique artistry of bamboo scaffolding.The juxtaposition of Pak's dedication to her heritage against the looming presence of metal scaffolding illustrates a broader narrative about the survival of traditional crafts in a rapidly modernizing world. As metal structures become more prevalent in Hong Kong, the fate of bamboo scaffolding hangs in the balance, signifying both a cultural evolution and a personal journey for artisans like Daisy Pak.
