Ashluc Chui

Category: Bonds of Kinship

  • Hoops and Bonds: Celebrating Lifelong Friendships from La Salle College

    Hoops and Bonds: Celebrating Lifelong Friendships from La Salle College

    Basketball has always been more than just a game—it’s a way to bring my closest allies together. By pulling friends from different circles to hit the court, I’ve watched them connect over a shared love for the sport, forging new ties across diverse networks. It’s a rare joy to see these worlds collide so naturally.

    Today, I want to spotlight two remarkable friends, Matthew and Anson, whom I met through the Our Lady of Fatima (OLF) society at La Salle College. Over a decade ago, we bonded during our school years, and that connection has only deepened. We’ve kept up regular meetups, especially on the court in recent times. Those OLF days left a lasting imprint—organizing inter-school camps, studying together at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, moving to nearby neighborhoods, and sharing countless meals and games with new faces. I’ve written before in this blog about how senior OLF members guided me toward university success, but Matthew and Anson, as my juniors, shared the journey in a different way. Together, we’ve built memories that anchor us, from late-night study sessions to catching up with old OLF crew.

    ***

    Matthew and I share a unique path: neither of us studied programming in university, yet we both carved out careers as developers. Our connection, rooted in La Salle College’s Our Lady of Fatima society and the “I’m Yours” organizer crew from our 2012 inter-school camp, has grown far beyond those early days. We catch up not just at OLF or “I’m Yours” gatherings but also on the basketball court, where we trade shots and sweat, and in deep dives over coding challenges, swapping insights on tech.

    The wildest twist came after I moved out on my own. Barely a few months later, Matthew relocated too—and, by sheer chance, to an estate just a three-minute walk from mine. Now neighbors, we can spontaneously grab a coffee or chill nearby, a rare privilege with someone this close. Matthew’s grounded nature shines through; his steady, earnest approach to work and life earns my respect every time.

    These shared moments—whether debugging code or shooting hoops—remind me how valuable it is to have a friend who’s both a teammate and a neighbor, keeping the connection tight through life’s shifts.

    ***

    Anson holds a unique place in my life, tied to me through an unexpected thread: he was my younger brother’s primary school classmate. My brother didn’t continue to La Salle College for secondary school—a choice that, honestly, carries a tinge of personal regret I might unpack another time. Yet, by a twist of fate, I met Anson through the Our Lady of Fatima (OLF) society at La Salle when he was just starting Form 1. From that moment, he became like a second younger brother to me, someone I’ve watched grow up over the years.

    I’ll admit, I’ve always had a soft spot for him. Early on, my care for Anson might have stemmed from missing my own brother, but it quickly grew into something more. We shared countless experiences—organizing OLF events, studying together at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and hitting the basketball court whenever we could. Those moments forged a deep camaraderie, built on shared memories and mutual trust. While I may not have grand gestures to offer, I’m always ready to share opportunities or support with him without hesitation.

    Anson’s more than a friend—he’s family, a buddy whose presence has enriched my journey through school, sports, and beyond.

    ***

    The game delivered an unforgettable highlight. I tossed a sharp pass to Anson as he cut in from the right baseline, and he soared for a perfect alley-oop, laying over a towering defender for a clean score. The court buzzed with energy—a true showcase of seamless teamwork.

    Moments like these remind me why I cherish these games. It’s not just about the points but the synergy and trust built through every pass and play, especially with longtime friends like Anson who bring their A-game.

    Anson’s preparing to relocate abroad soon, a move I quietly find tough to accept, though I’d never say it out loud. Still, his decision is made, and I wish him nothing but the best—a vibrant new chapter filled with fresh connections. When he returns to Hong Kong, the court will be waiting for another round.

    For me, staying grounded means never forgetting those who’ve walked alongside you. It’s not just about tangible help—it’s about the steady presence of people who quietly cheer you on through every struggle. Matthew, Anson, and the broader OLF network have been that backbone, and I’m endlessly grateful for their support as I navigate my entrepreneurial path with SilverGuard AI and beyond.

  • Reconnecting Over Dinner: Bonds, Memories, and New Beginnings with Engineering Friends

    Reconnecting Over Dinner: Bonds, Memories, and New Beginnings with Engineering Friends

    Tonight, I joined old university friends from my electronics engineering days, along with our final-year project advisor, Professor Michael, for a warm and lively dinner at a charming Korean restaurant in Mongkok. It had been a while since we last gathered—over a year, in fact. One friend recently became a father, and balancing new parenthood kept him tied up until now. With things settling down, we seized the chance to reconnect.

    The evening buzzed with laughter as we swapped stories from our university days and caught up on recent developments. A surprising twist stole the show: I discovered that my friend, the new dad, is now my neighbor—living in the same housing estate, on the same floor, windows facing each other. Neither of us had a clue about this coincidence when we moved in, and now we bump into each other regularly. It’s the kind of serendipity that feels almost fated.

    Though our schedules don’t always align, these reunions remind me how effortless it is to pick up where we left off. Sharing a meal in such a relaxed setting, reflecting on our academic journey, and discussing future aspirations—whether in tech innovation or personal milestones—grounds me in gratitude for these enduring connections.

  • A Night of Immersive Fun: Reuniting with the “I’m Yours” Crew for Scripted Murder Mystery

    A Night of Immersive Fun: Reuniting with the “I’m Yours” Crew for Scripted Murder Mystery

    Tonight, I joined my longtime friends from the “I’m Yours” group for an unforgettable six-hour scripted murder mystery game infused with theatrical flair. The name “I’m Yours” traces back to 2012, when we formed a tight-knit team to organize an inter-school camp under the Our Lady of Fatima (OLF) society, a branch of La Salle College’s Legion of Mary. This circle blends my closest OLF pals with friends from other schools, and over the years, it’s grown into a true family—some now married, with their partners warmly welcomed into the fold.

    For over a decade, we’ve kept the connection alive with regular meetups and gatherings. I’ll admit, I’m often the slacker who occasionally skips out, but my affection for this group runs deep. Their genuine, open-hearted nature makes every moment together effortless and uplifting. The women in the crew, in particular, are organizational powerhouses. I’m known for planning events well, but they outshine me with their precision—churning out schedules and documents with a level of efficiency that’s frankly humbling. Tonight’s murder mystery was no exception, masterfully arranged by them, with my SilverGuard AI partner, Sonia, joining the fun.

    This wasn’t your average game night. The organizers wove in stage-play elements, and three dedicated hosts delivered a deeply immersive experience. Starting late after work, we dove in and didn’t wrap up until past 2 a.m. Exhaustion hit hard, but the shared laughter and suspense made it a night to remember.

    Here’s to “I’m Yours”—a bond that stands the test of time.

  • Four Years Since Diving into CUHK’s Entrepreneurship Scene: Lessons That Stick and Paths Rediscovered

    Four Years Since Diving into CUHK’s Entrepreneurship Scene: Lessons That Stick and Paths Rediscovered

    Can’t believe it’s already been four years since our first foray into the Chinese University of Hong Kong’s entrepreneur day—time slips by in a flash, turning initial stumbles into solid strides. Back then, we wandered through sessions wide-eyed, soaking up talks from veterans without grasping much at all; the business landscape felt utterly foreign, like piecing together a puzzle in the dark. Fast forward, and those experiences have layered on practical insights into markets, strategies, and operations that now guide our daily decisions.

    Top of my list for thanks goes to Sonia, my steadfast partner in this ride—we’ve tackled learning curves side by side, and now our medical technology initiative is gaining real traction. Let’s keep pushing; the momentum feels right. Among countless takeaways, one phrase from mentor EY resonates deepest: “堅持、應變” (persistence and adaptability). It boils down to holding firm through rough patches while tweaking approaches as circumstances shift—a mindset that’s proven essential in navigating uncertainties.

    On a side note, university days had me convinced I’d mapped every inch of CUHK’s sprawling campus through endless walks. Returning as an alum, though, after real-world knocks, reveals fresh angles: untapped resources, hidden networks, and opportunities waiting in plain sight. It’s a reminder that growth often circles back to familiar ground with sharper eyes.

  • Launching Forward: SilverGuard AI’s Milestone at HKSTP Ideation Programme Orientation

    Launching Forward: SilverGuard AI’s Milestone at HKSTP Ideation Programme Orientation

    Attending the kickoff session for HKSTP’s Ideation Programme felt like crossing a pivotal threshold. Sonia and I represented SilverGuard AI at this orientation in Kowloon Tong’s InnoCentre, turning what could have been a routine info dump into a profound marker of progress. For us, bootstrapping our way through early entrepreneurship, this event signaled a shift toward scaling operations with structured backing—seed funding, mentorship, and resources tailored for Hong Kong startups.

    Sonia approached the day with real gravity, viewing it as a ceremonial beginning despite knowing the agenda might not reveal groundbreaking details. To honor that, she cleared her schedule entirely, even though sessions started mid-afternoon. We kicked off with a casual meal at Yong Li Yuan in Wong Tai Sin—opting for dan dan noodles and their signature roselle tea—before heading to Festival Walk to ease into the vibe. A quirky moment unfolded at Lady M during our break: neighboring tables buzzed with HKSTP personnel discussing logistics, their chatter amplifying our anticipation without spilling any secrets.

    The gathering exceeded expectations in energy and turnout, drawing well over 100 participants. Staff outlined the program’s mechanics with enthusiasm—covering everything from application timelines to ongoing support—while a skilled photographer captured candid shots. Even the refreshment spread impressed, offering diverse bites that turned networking breaks into mini feasts for someone like me who appreciates good eats.

    Most meaningful was snapping our inaugural professional photo together on site. We’d previously mocked up similar images via AI to visualize success; seeing it materialize now fuels our resolve to advance SilverGuard AI’s mission in predictive elderly care. Heartfelt thanks again to Sonia for standing shoulder-to-shoulder through years of ups and downs—we’re set to cover even greater ground ahead.

  • Capturing a Moment of Triumph: How My Engineering Struggles Forged Lasting Drive in Tech Ventures

    Capturing a Moment of Triumph: How My Engineering Struggles Forged Lasting Drive in Tech Ventures

    Every glance at this snapshot stirs deep emotion—it’s the one I snapped right after a breakthrough that had me in tears of relief. The image stands as a testament to raw determination, reminding me how far grit can carry you when odds stack against success.

    Let’s face it: academics never came easy. Grades hovered in the average range throughout school; rules felt confining, textbooks rarely held my attention, and high scores seemed out of reach. The goal was simply graduation, nothing flashy.

    Engineering demanded a capstone project, though—a wireless power transfer setup using capacitors instead of standard coils. For someone like me, lacking solid grounding in core principles, it loomed as an insurmountable hurdle. Clear as day, those early weeks of senior year found me hunkered down in the lab multiple days on end, piecing together prototypes amid frustration. Professor KK didn’t hold back on feedback, pointing out flaws relentlessly.

    No choice but to push through for that bachelor degree. Huge nod to the late lab overseer Leo, whose guidance proved invaluable—he’d chat through roadblocks, source components, and keep spirits up during dead ends. Another tutor, Oliver, not even assigned to my work, generously broke down concepts on his own time.

    Effort poured in, yet the eve of my defense arrived with no working demo. Past nine at night, stomach empty under darkened skies, I vowed one final tweak before quitting. Miraculously, the LED flickered to life. Doubting my eyes at first, I adjusted variables and repositioned elements—each trial confirmed viability. Past failures suddenly clicked as stepping stones; elation hit hard, leading to outright cheers and sobs.

    Microwave Lab

    Rang Sonia immediately to share the win; her voice alone amplified the joy, even if technical details escaped her grasp. Next morning (5 Apr 2017), she joined me in the lab to witness the setup firsthand, then stuck around for the pitch. Turns out, presentations suit my flair—audience reactions showed surprise turning to applause. Wrapped it up uniquely by belting out “We Shall Overcome” on the final slide, transforming the session into something memorable. If curious about other highlights, just ask.

    Shot by Sonia

    Post-event lunch with Professor KK and peers brought unexpected spotlight. He singled me out first, despite stronger performers in the group. Called my delivery captivating, a standout in his long career. Noted the charisma, then praised execution—acknowledging thin theoretical base but commending the functional outcome. Those words landed as a genuine boost.

    That episode underscores lessons carrying into my role steering SilverGuard AI: breakthroughs demand unwavering focus, smart alliances, and turning near-defeats into launches. It’s the spark behind pushing boundaries in medical tech today.

  • Braving Hong Kong’s Rain: A Hike with Dad and Thoughts on Family Support in Business

    Braving Hong Kong’s Rain: A Hike with Dad and Thoughts on Family Support in Business

    This morning, I met up with my father for a planned hike, and he made the effort to catch an hour-long bus just to join me. Weather turned against us—Hong Kong issued a red rainstorm warning, with downpours soaking everything in sight. We came prepared with umbrellas, though, and pushed on undeterred through the trails around Tai Tong.

    Our bond has strengthened considerably over the last few years. He shifted from a more rigid outlook to one that’s open and empathetic, eager to hear what his kids have to say while sharing his own experiences. These outings mean a lot; on his days off, we carve out moments to trek together, exchanging stories along the path before grabbing lunch.

    He’s no stranger to hard work, well beyond typical retirement years. After stepping away briefly, he jumped back into employment, citing genuine interest in his field. Deep down, as his son, I sense part of it stems from wanting to provide extra stability, especially since my own path hasn’t always been smooth. That weighs on me, but I’m thankful for recent gains in my ventures. Looking ahead, nothing would please me more than proving my progress, allowing him to ease into full retirement without worries.

    These shared adventures remind me how family anchors ambition, fueling the drive to build something lasting amid life’s uncertainties.

  • Rekindling Ties with La Salle College OLF Peers: Board Games in Mong Kok, Mentorship Insights, and Enduring Friendships

    Rekindling Ties with La Salle College OLF Peers: Board Games in Mong Kok, Mentorship Insights, and Enduring Friendships

    Today I reconnected with a group of longtime friends from La Salle College for an evening out in Mong Kok, where we dove into board games like Exploding Kittens and Three-Dragon Ante. The venue doubled as a casual dining spot, so we ordered takeout to enjoy alongside the gameplay. Moments like these instantly transport me back to our school years, rekindling those unbreakable ties formed in our shared OLF chapter. With careers demanding our focus these days, gatherings are less frequent, but they always pick up right where we left off, as if the years hadn’t intervened. I stay in touch more regularly with the younger alumni—Anson, Matthew, and Samson—through pickup basketball sessions, and it’s rewarding to nurture those relationships over time. A big thanks to them for keeping the connection alive.

    Let me highlight two exceptional seniors: Hugo and Kenneth, just one year ahead but instrumental in broadening my perspective through their talents and achievements. Kenneth couldn’t join us this time due to feeling under the weather, yet his influence remains vivid. Known for his quick humor and relaxed demeanor, conversations with him during school breaks were always uplifting. He commanded respect on campus, too—think reserving prime basketball court time during recess, a feat that required real pull or an invitation. He’d include me in those sessions with the upperclassmen, helping me build confidence and experience that sense of belonging.

    Hugo, on the other hand, shone in academics, earning nine A’s in his public exams and establishing himself as a top performer. My initial years in secondary school were challenging; I often ranked near the lower end. Rather than pulling away because of my difficulties, he shared practical study strategies during free periods. Without his input, securing a place at the Chinese University of Hong Kong might have been out of reach. He didn’t just provide answers—he emphasized techniques for independent learning that have served me well ever since. His skills extended beyond the classroom; he took second in the school’s singing competition, delivering performances with genuine vocal talent.

    Beyond academics, these two organized group activities after hours—think karaoke outings, billiards matches, tea breaks, or relaxed venue hangs. What seemed like pure leisure was balanced with their subtle push toward better study habits, showcasing their versatility in education, athletics, and social life. I’m profoundly appreciative of how they shaped my growth.

    Drawing from their example of generosity, I make it a point to visit the college now and then, engaging with current students and passing on insights to guide their paths and avoid common setbacks.

    La Salle College stands out for its excellence in academics, sports, and the arts, as many observers note. But the true strength comes from its ingrained culture of mentorship, where upperclassmen freely impart wisdom to those following behind. This tradition of knowledge-sharing drives ongoing success for all involved.

    During the games, I noticed distinct preferences and habits among the group, adding layers to our interactions. Truth be told, the highlight was simply being together again. I arrived feeling drained from the day and low on energy, but deep down, the familiarity brought a profound sense of stability—these are friends I’ve known for ages. Anson surprised me with a thoughtful birthday gift: a framed group photo, complete with heartfelt wishes inscribed on the reverse. As for Matthew, we bumped into each other at the MTR station post-event; he had just finished his commute home, so we walked together and chatted extensively. We align on numerous ideas, making our discussions engaging and effortless. Samson might be heading off soon for a working holiday abroad—likely our final meetup for the foreseeable future—so I wish him all the best and hope he makes the most of it.

    Gratitude to La Salle College and the OLF community for laying such solid groundwork.

  • Grateful for Lunch with Our Business Mentor EY: Celebrating a Key Business Milestone

    Grateful for Lunch with Our Business Mentor EY: Celebrating a Key Business Milestone

    Shared a memorable lunch today with EY, our steadfast life and business mentor whom Sonia and I first connected with during our time at CUSE. This get-together doubled as a gratitude gesture following a substantial breakthrough in our careers—one of those pivotal shifts that deserved a proper celebration.

    EY has been a constant presence in our corner for five years straight, time that seems to have slipped by in a blink. Sonia entered from the healthcare field, while my roots were in engineering; neither of us had the faintest idea about business mechanics when we began. His reliable counsel demystified it all for us: closing key agreements, adapting to shifting market dynamics, and building tactics that yield real payoffs.

    The real gem is how EY seamlessly merges mentorship with genuine camaraderie. He brings a gentle touch to our conversations, offering candid perspectives on navigating life’s curveballs that cut through confusion in trying times. At today’s spot—a welcoming Western restaurant serving up Spanish cuisine, where the English-speaking staff added to the cozy vibe—the setting amplified the warmth. The intimate atmosphere made our dialogue feel effortless and engaging, as we delved into topics from romance and personal connections to deeper reflections on existence and current world affairs. It struck me how in sync our mindsets are; we pick up on each other’s thoughts with ease, turning every exchange into something truly enriching.

    Grateful once more, EY. Eager for our upcoming session—your viewpoints consistently ignite innovative approaches.

    Sonia and I – Photo credits to EY
  • Attending the Hong Kong Hope Through Music Concert Amid Typhoon Warnings: An Afternoon of Inspiration and Growth

    Attending the Hong Kong Hope Through Music Concert Amid Typhoon Warnings: An Afternoon of Inspiration and Growth

    Headed out to another uplifting performance by Hong Kong Hope Through Music (HTM) today, even as a Signal 3 typhoon hung over the city during the day, with an upgrade to Signal 8 looming by evening. Thankfully, the weather held off just long enough for the event to proceed without interruption at the VTC Auditorium in Tseung Kwan O. It’s hard to believe I’ve been following this group for three or four years now, catching at least eight of their shows if not more. Watching these young performers evolve has been rewarding—several familiar faces have matured noticeably, gaining poise and assurance through their immersion in melodies and rhythms. As someone who dabbles in instruments myself, their energy never fails to spark a fresh enthusiasm in me.

    Music doesn’t demand perfection to make an impact; what counts is the joy it brings and the self-assurance it fosters along the way. This sense of warmth from shared experiences can truly transform perspectives. I’m deeply appreciative of HTM’s ongoing commitment to nurturing talent among children from grassroots families. The initiative delivers no-cost training in strings and choral groups, encouraging teamwork that sparks passion for the arts while instilling strong values. Through stage appearances, participants build resilience, savor accomplishments, and cultivate a positive outlook on life ahead.

    Beyond individual development, HTM extends its reach into neighborhoods by organizing volunteer gigs at welfare centers. These outings let the kids share their skills with seniors, single-parent households, people with disabilities, and others in need, fostering connections across diverse groups and promoting inclusivity through collaborative networks.

    The program specifically targets youngsters from low-income backgrounds, including those on comprehensive social security, textbook assistance (full or half grants), or approved working family allowances. It’s a vital resource that opens doors to creativity and service.

    A special nod to EY for the invite—made the evening all the more memorable.