What is it like to be young, British Chinese and successful in the UK. Lisa gives us an insight into her busy life.

Food, music and books
‘I’m a restaurateur and project manager, and believe me, everyday is different: in the restaurant, where I am chef and business developer, there are ever-changing menu offers and promotions to manage; our college courses and students need attention; and I have fledgling author and DJ careers to develop.’ Lisa hosts a weekly bi-lingual radio show which combines Cantonese music with chit-chat, and along with her business partners (real-life sisters), has several books in the pipeline. Due for publication in 2007, the first of these is called, like their restaurant ‘Sweet Mandarin’. It is the true story of a journey from East to West as experienced by three generations of Chinese women in her family. The other books include one about entrepreneurship, and one for children.

Outstanding individual
‘Being voted Outstanding Individual of the Year by Marketing Manchester in 2005, so soon after opening the Sweet Mandarin restaurant, was a surprise; a personal and professional boost. I’m sure the award was for the way I combine business and voluntary community activity. It helped me to build a broad network of contacts, from local and central government to the media. It encouraged me to share my own success story with others, especially young people in schools and colleges. We contribute a case study for enterprise certificates, and take on several students for work experience in our own restaurant where we focus on a range of life-skills - much more than kitchen or table-waiting ability.’

Cultural influences
‘I feel British even though I look Chinese. It’s a certain way of approaching and communicating with people – well-mannered. Even though I maintain strong links with the Chinese business community, I can’t help speaking Chinese with an accent, for instance, which is the result of living in the UK all my life.

Day-to-day, I look to people who are on my wave-length in terms of a focused business outlook; positive, mainly older individuals, who have experiences I can learn from. I have a continuing thirst for knowledge about what makes businesses thrive or struggle. I am passionate about food and am always watching the cookery channels on TV or looking at cookery books and magazines.’  

Time out
‘I try to have one day off a week which is mostly spent locally in the neighbourhood, where people are on first name terms, and very family oriented. As a family we might go out for a meal; or sometimes I will go clubbing with friends. As I am a part-time radio DJ, my new hobby has become looking for people to interview on the weekly show!’

Anatole
December 2006/January 2007

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