Reviving a Family Tradition: The Story of Miru Wong and Sindart Shoemaking Shop

Miru Wong, now 33 years old, spent her childhood assisting her grandparents in running their shoemaking shop in Hong Kong. Little did she know that this experience would shape her future and lead her to a remarkable journey of preserving a dying trade.

A Vision Takes Shape

During her college years at Polytechnic University in Hong Kong, Miru embarked on a project that would change her life. Studying visual communication design, she decided to focus her final year project on rebranding her family's shoemaking shop, Sindart. The shop, established by her grandfather in 1958, specialized in traditional hand-embroidered slippers.

The Rebirth of Sindart

Miru's rebranding plan aimed to breathe new life into Sindart by enhancing product designs, expanding the range, and promoting the heritage craftsmanship of embroidered shoes. Her proposal included creating new designs, organizing workshops, and boosting brand awareness. Witnessing the decline of the craft in Hong Kong, Miru felt a deep sense of responsibility to keep the family legacy alive.

A New Chapter Begins

After graduating at the age of 22, Miru took the reins of Sindart, becoming the third-generation owner. Remaining true to her grandfather's vision of offering quality at affordable prices, she ensured that the shop's products remained accessible to customers. With a product range spanning from basic to intricately embroidered shoes, priced between HK$99 to HK$300, Miru maintained a balance between tradition and innovation.

Preserving Tradition, Embracing Innovation

To stay relevant in a changing market, Miru focused on enhancing product design, functionality, and aesthetics while staying true to the core traditional techniques. She introduced new designs, such as the popular panda-themed shoes, to attract a younger audience while preserving her grandfather's original creations.

Promoting Artisanal Craftsmanship

Through workshops, demonstrations, and social media engagement, Miru aimed to revitalize interest in artisanal and bespoke products in Hong Kong. Collaborating with educational institutions, like The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, she advocated for the transfer of shoemaking skills to younger generations through apprenticeship programs and specialized courses.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the rising labor costs and modern challenges facing traditional shoemakers in Hong Kong, Miru remains committed to promoting and safeguarding the unique craft of handmade Chinese embroidery and shoemaking. With a growing online presence and a loyal customer base, she continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the industry.

As she contemplates the future and the possibility of passing on the business to the fourth generation, Miru remains dedicated to preserving her family's legacy. With a passion for craftsmanship and a deep love for the tradition, she stands as a trailblazer in keeping Hong Kong's traditional industries alive.

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By: insider@insider.com (Faye Bradley)
Title: Reviving a Family Tradition: The Story of Miru Wong and Sindart Shoemaking Shop
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/student-project-helped-keep-family-shoemaking-shop-business-hong-kong-2024-6
Published Date: Wed, 19 Jun 2024 06:40:44 +0000