Hong Kong Film Festival: How a waiter won the Professional Spirit Award

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The "Professional Spirit Award" at the 37th Hong Kong Film Awards went to a woman who had never been on-screen in her life – Pauline Yeung.

Pauline Yeung on the stage of presentation ceremony. /VCG Photo

Presented by Jackie Chan, the actor applauded her for her special designation among Hong Kong filmmakers – bringing tea when people need it most.

Yeung is a film crew waiter whose main job is to provide drinks for filmmakers behind the scenes.

It is the first time that a member of the service staff won the prize. Yeung has served nearly every famous actor and actress in the Hong Kong film industry, with many praising her for her careful and considerate service.

The job sounds simple, but goes beyond just the physical. The role requires attention and a great memory, as large film sets can have as many as 100 people, with varying tastes and needs.

Pauline Yeung with Hong Kong movie stars. /VCG Photo

Yeung was recommended to the job 30 years ago. At first, the producer told her, "Your job is just to look after the director and the actor, and nothing else." But then she saw that other staff were working hard too. She took care of everyone.

Although the work was hard, Yeung is always optimistic. Though she is illiterate, but she said the role helped her earn a decent salary. "It's not easy for me to have this salary, so I respect it," Yeung said.

The "Professional Spirit Award" was set up in 1990 by the Hong Kong film awards association to praise veteran actors or behind-the-scene crew members who have contributed to the Hong Kong film industry.

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