When you think of living in 86 square feet – less than the size of an average car – what comes to mind? For many, the immediate associations might be words like poor, uneducated, unhappy, alone, or without hope. These assumptions, however, often stem from stigma and a lack of understanding about the realities of those living in such conditions. In the world of social impact, much of the work we do at PIA revolves around addressing these very barriers – stigma, prejudice, and systemic challenges that perpetuate inequality.
To truly address systemic issues, we must first seek to understand the lives of those who have been marginalized, discriminated against, or socially excluded. This requires unraveling our own biases, opening our minds to new perspectives, and delving into the lived realities of others. Only then can we begin to learn how to help those in need most effectively.
Recently, we had the opportunity to visit a pop-up exhibition masterfully curated by Assistant Professor, Ruby Lai and her team at Lingnan University. Located in Kwai Chung, Kowloon – a neighborhood home to many low-income families – the exhibition focused on the lives of those living in Hong Kong’s sub-divided units (SDUs). These cramped living spaces, often no larger than 86 square feet, are a stark reminder of the city’s housing crisis. Yet, within these confines, we discovered stories of resilience, innovation, and purpose that challenged our preconceptions.
Fong: A Community Advocate
Fong has lived in her SDU on the 9th floor of a walk-up building for over a decade. Despite the lack of an elevator, she remains an active participant in her community, attending meetings daily. Fong has helped launch collective purchasing programs, participated in group studies, and advocated for policy reform. Her most prized possessions are her two red schedule books, which document her personal growth and efforts over the years. Fong’s story is a testament to the power of community engagement and the strength of the human spirit.
Wing: A Scholar’s Journey
Born in the 1980s, Wing lives alone with his cat in an SDU. Books are his most treasured possessions, and among them are four versions of Siddhartha, a novel based on the life of Gautama Buddha. Wing sees his own journey mirrored in the story – a precocious protagonist who experiences the world, sheds worldly desires, and achieves enlightenment. Today, Wing teaches art, literature, and philosophy as a university lecturer, proving that even in the most constrained spaces, intellectual and spiritual growth can flourish.
Sam: A Frugal Innovator
Sam’s water supply is unsuitable for drinking and cooking, and his living space is barely enough to move around. Yet, despite these constraints, he has installed a dual water system and filter, managing wastewater disposal on his own. Sam refuses to compromise on his standards of living, demonstrating remarkable ingenuity and determination. His story is a powerful example of how resourcefulness can thrive even in the most challenging circumstances.
Beyond the Stereotypes
These stories—and so many others we encountered – reveal a side of life in SDUs that often goes unnoticed. Far from being defined by hardship alone, the individuals we met demonstrated incredible resilience, creativity, and purpose. Their lives are a reminder that dignity, innovation, and hope can flourish even in the most difficult conditions.
As we reflect on these experiences, we are reminded of the importance of challenging our assumptions and listening to the voices of those who are often overlooked. By doing so, we can better understand the systemic issues at play and work toward solutions that truly empower those in need.
This exhibition was not just a window into the lives of those living in SDUs – it was a call to action. It reminded us that behind every statistic is a human story, and within every challenge lies the potential for transformation. Let’s carry these lessons forward as we continue our work in the social impact space, striving to create a world where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can thrive.
By Pia Wong, Founder & CEO, Purpose Impact Action
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