In 2006, when Chan Yeuk-ching saw the news that one of the largest banks in Hong Kong was setting up a branch in Shenyang, Liaoning province, she knew it was her time to shine.
She had just graduated from university at that time and had no clue where Shenyang was, but she flew to the northeastern city without hesitation.
During her years at the bank, Chan advanced to become head of the corporate loan department, where she found it was difficult for small and micro enterprises to borrow money.
In 2011, she started a company in Shenyang specializing in loans and investment for small and micro-size enterprises. Over time, she noticed there was demand for international legal services in Northeast China. So she set up a law firm with partners last year.
The firm now boasts more than 30 members and provides services for some well-known local enterprises.
Chan has been living in Shenyang for 15 years. She uses the words hospitality, integrity and accountability to describe her "second hometown".
"Before I came here, I had no family or friends in Shenyang. I was afraid I would feel lonely," Chan recalled. "However, after I got here, the people of the Chinese mainland showed great hospitality. I met new friends and built up a new life. It didn't take long for me to settle in."
Chan believes that as the motherland heads to a prosperous future, a lot of opportunities will emerge.
"If we can catch them to show our talent and capabilities, it will help us realize our self-worth while contributing to the development of our country," she said.
As vice president of the Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in Liaoning province, Chan has been working hard to help build a platform for communication between enterprises in Liaoning and Hong Kong.
She hopes to realize her dream while contributing to the economic development of Northeast China.