Meet Joe Pen Lai

Joe Pen Lai from Johannesburg was recently appointed the Consumer Affairs Specialist for the Retail Motor Industry (RMI) at the national office in Randburg.

Read more about why Joe is proud to be Chinese and a South African.

"Remember your culture but also remember that times have changed and use what we have learnt from our culture to move forward with the times. The world is your oyster in which we can only grow from strength to strength." ~ Joe Pen Lai

Name: Joe Pen Lai

Occupation: Consumer Affairs Specialist for the Retail Motor Industry in South Africa

1. Where were you born?

Johannesburg, South Africa

2. What school/college/university did you attend?

Malvern High School, Roodepoort Technical College, Smith Street Technical College

3. What is your fondest childhood memory, growing up as a Chinese child?

Exposure to different ethnic groups and cultures. Dinner time at home.

4. What is your favourite Chinese food?

Shanghai steak

5. Where do you live?

Primrose Hill, Germiston

6. What work do you do?

Consumer Affairs Specialist

7. What do you love about your job?

Offering Excellent customer service externally and internally based on facts. I am able to contribute my experience and skills. The sense of accomplishment when a query is resolved. The fact that my opinion matters. I love the fact that my company values morals and integrity. I have a voice within the company and that we as an Organisation make a difference.

8. What is your proudest achievement?

Obtaining qualification as a Qualified Journeyman

9. Why are you proud to be South African?

We have a beautiful country, with 8 world heritage sites, beautiful countrysides, exquisite beaches and rugged mountains. We have National Braai Day. With 11 Official languages we are a nation that can come together as one when the need arises. With all our cultures we understand and respect each other.

10. Why are you proud to be Chinese?

China is an ancient country with +- 5000 years of consistent history, we have a unique culture. Being from Chinese origin has been partly responsible for the person I am today. China has been in the forefront in the world with many firsts like World first paper currency, world first compass just to name a few.

11. Name one Chinese tradition that you’d like future generations to continue with?

To keep meals social and friendly with family and extended family. Loyalty to family. Respect our elders.

11. What advice would you give to the Chinese youth today in South Africa?

Remember your culture but also remember that times have changed and use what we have learnt from our culture to move forward with the times. The world is your oyster in which we can only grow from strength to strength.

12. Is there anything else that you’d like to share with the Chinese community?