Kristy - Hong Kong
Can you tell us about yourself?
Hello my name is Kristy and I run a bakery called APC Kitchen.
I am originally from Hong Kong and currently living in Coventry. But I may relocate to another city later with my husband. My business is home based and we sell home made sweet treats including cakes, cookies, Japanese desserts, French desserts, bread and even Hong Kong style desserts too. We are also experimenting with some savoury options too. Just now we have made some Hong Kong style meatballs with special seasoning and it is delicious. We take orders through Instagram so if you want to check out our food or even order some delicious treats our instagram is @apckitchen.
Can you tell us about your journey to the UK?
I actually came to the UK before moving in 2015 to go to Coventry University, but then I went back to Hong Kong for work. However, after a few years my parents decided to move to the UK to start a new life so I decided to join them. We didn’t know many places in the UK before we moved so we chose Coventry as our new home.
Last year, I started a new job in Wigan. But after a year, I decided to quit my job and follow my passion for Baking. I went to London to study at Le Cordon Bleu and learn how to start my own business.
What were the challenges of moving to the UK?
1. Cultural differences.
2. Have to meet new friends again.
3. Difficult to find yummy asian food.
4. Language Barrier.
5. Weather.
6. Not as many shopping centres and entertainment as Hong Kong.
Did you have any challenges with the language?
There are so many different accents all around the UK. Even in Wigan, where I worked previously, I worked with people from a wide variety of countries. It was quite hard to understand their accent at first, but as you keep practicing and giving yourself the confidence to speak, it becomes a lot easier.
Do you have any funny stories?
Not that I can think of, but sometimes I think it's quite funny that I’m a trained nutritionist and run a bakery business!
What was your motivation to start a business?
My husband, Johnny, discovered that I have an amazing talent and interest for baking and food, so he encouraged me.
How have you found running your own business in Coventry?
I have only just started my business so everything is very new to me. I'm not sure how it will go later. But I’m excited for the future!
How have you found running a business in your second/third language?
So far I don't feel that running a business in English is difficult, as I learnt alot of English skills before coming to the UK and have carried on practising my English since I arrived.
How important is English Learning for Hong Kongers coming to the UK?
It's undeniable that English is crucial for Hong Kongers coming to the UK, because it's the only language you can communicate in here.
What would your advice be to others moving to the UK to start a business?
Be brave, just keep trying and don't give up!