Born in Shanghai and raised in Austria, Qiqi embarked on her modelling career in Hong Kong at the age of 20. Known for carrying herself with grace and sophistication, she is one of the most well-known supermodels in Hong Kong. After marrying acting veteran Simon Yam, she became a mother to her daughter Ella. Since then, she has shifted her focus on her family and developing her own jewellery business. Though she has travelled far and wide across the globe, Qiqi admits that Hong Kong will always hold a special place in her heart.

Some say you are part of the last generation of Hong Kong supermodels. What are your thoughts on that? 

I don’t think that is true. I hope there will continue to be new generations of Hong Kong supermodels in the future. I feel there are still more modelling talents on the rise.

Looking back on your modelling career, are there any unforgettable moments or experiences?

There are many unforgettable moments. The most unforgettable moment was shooting a cover story with my daughter Ella the year she turned 14 [Vogue Hong Kong April 2019 issue]. This will be something we will remember for the rest of our lives. I’ve been a model for many years, but seeing a fashion magazine cover featuring a photoshoot of me and my daughter was especially meaningful to me. 

As for my personal experiences, I still remember being in a photo shoot with Cindy Crawford and Linda Evangelista when “The Big Five” had just emerged. I spent nine days with them, shooting in Beijing, Macau and Hong Kong. Back then, I thought to myself: “Supermodels. Wow. I’m actually working with them and one of the best photographers in the world.” I was happy and excited. I learnt a lot and grew up quickly in the process. Those world-class supermodels were my role models and who I wanted to become. 

What did you learn from Crawford and Evangelista back then?

They became extremely popular at the time but remained very humble and professional. I was a newcomer then, but they were very friendly to me. They helped those around them while ensuring they were feeling comfortable and guided everyone in working toward the same direction.

Later, when you also became a top model in the industry, were there any things you paid special attention to? 

It’s always about being professional and passionate about your work. You must remain humble and grounded no matter how popular or famous you become. You need to be very focused at work but also be able to wind down in your personal life to achieve a balance in life.

The fashion and modelling industries have changed a lot in recent years. What are your thoughts on industry trends, notably the rise of influencer culture?

Indeed, it’s the era of influencers now. Everyone uses social media and finds their moment to shine. Actually, the fashion industry has also changed. There used to be no digital covers, but the way media works is entirely different now — you have to keep evolving with the times, and that’s life. You need to be more positive and open to new things. Now, we even have AI technology and chip implants. Times are changing very quickly, and everyone has to keep up.

Do you keep up with influencers?  Do you manage your own social media as well?

I keep up with different influencers, and I do use Instagram myself, but I do not manage my account like an influencer. Everyone has their mission in life. How I worked back in my day is different, but I admire and learn from the strengths of others. Fashion influencers are not bound by the same restrictions as models, such as being a certain height. Anyone can be an influencer and share their different styles regardless of their natural attributes. The content that influencers create can also enrich people’s lives, so I keep an open mind towards it. 

Speaking of shooting a cover with your daughter, Ella is now 19 years old and has also started modelling. What are your thoughts on that? 

My daughter has always loved fashion. She’s currently a freshman at university, so she prioritises her studies and takes on modelling jobs in her free time. Kids nowadays are very smart and know what they like. If she wants to pursue modelling full-time after graduating, I will absolutely support her. As her mother, the most valuable advice I can give her is to just “be yourself”.

You came from Austria to develop your modelling career in Hong Kong. How would you describe your feelings for Hong Kong?

I fell in love, married, and had my daughter in Hong Kong. Hong Kong is my home. I’ve worked and travelled around the world, but nothing ever tops Hong Kong. Firstly, Hong Kongers are all really hard-working. Secondly, the weather is great, it’s not too cold here. In European cities, it gets dark early in winter, affecting your mood. Also, Hong Kong is small, so it’s very convenient to get anywhere. I have many friends here. I also started my own jewellery business based in the city. Hong Kong is the most unique place in the world. It’s a dynamic, fast-paced city where a lot can happen in a day — unlike Europe, where you can only get one thing done in two weeks. 

Have your views on Hong Kong changed in recent years?

Not at all. I’ve always appreciated Hong Kong and its people. Sure, Hong Kong has its ups and downs, just like everywhere else in the world. We should just focus on ourselves. Over the course of the pandemic, no one could travel. That’s life, and a lot of different things happen in it. It is important to stay positive no matter what difficulties arise.

How would you define the “Hong Kong spirit”? How can it be passed on?

The Hong Kong spirit is about being hardworking and caring. Hong Kongers are patient and always willing to help others. During the pandemic, Hong Kongers were very disciplined and stayed optimistic. This kind of spirit is very worth carrying on. As parents, we can pass on this spirit to our children.