When I reflect on my professional career which spans over 40 years, one of my utmost joys other than my achievements is being able to “give back.” It is with pride that over the years, I always looked for opportunities to return to tourism and hospitality what it gave me. The industry was good to me. It allowed me to learn numerous skills that led me to success and helped me to develop a strong image and reputation as a professional in the industry. It led me to years of happiness, fun, excitement, anticipation, and gratification. There was something new to learn every day, always something to look forward to, and never a dull moment.
I appreciate all this and realized early on that I owe tremendously to the industry that embraced me. It was important that I find ways to give back. During my 15 years with Ocean Park, I was able to join IAAPA, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. This association brought the attractions industry together. It provided opportunities to network, learn from others through education, guide careers, and be connected. One way for me to give back was to participate and contribute to the association. It would give me a chance to share best practices to help other attractions.
It started with joining the marketing committee and after three years, became chairman of the committee for another three years. Shortly after, I was invited to join the Board of Directors which was an honor, and served for three years including one year on the Executive Committee. Then, I continued to serve IAAPA on the Membership Committee for three years. I was also invited on numerous occasions to speak at the IAAPA expos in Orlando and Asia as well as participate as a faculty member for their Institute for Attraction Managers (“IAM”) program. My work with IAAPA over the years fulfilled my wish to “give back” and will be a chapter of tremendous pride in my career.
With the knowledge and experience learned from IAAPA, I established HKAAPA, the Hong Kong Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions in 2012. Patterned after IAAPA, it brought together the attractions of Hong Kong into an association to support tourism and provide networking opportunities for the attractions and unity that was not present at the time. It was another opportunity to give back and contribute to the attractions and Hong Kong tourism.
I was successful because the industry allowed me to be successful. I shall always cherish my contributions to the industry and be grateful for its contribution to my career. Nothing is more valuable than experience and nothing may be more meaningful than sharing it to help others.