Ringo Chiu
I was born in a small town in China. In 1979, when I was 10 years old, my family moved to Hong Kong in search of a better life. When we first arrived in Hong Kong, we didn’t have much money, so we lived in a very small place in a crowded neighborhood called Kowloon Walled City. My parents had to work very long hours, even at night, just to make ends meet.
In my 20’s, after getting married, I decided to move to the U.S. to study in Los Angeles. My wife and I packed our bags and we arrived in LA. in 1996. After graduating from Cal State Northridge, the initial plan was to return to my country, but my friends encouraged me to stay.
I now reside with my wife and two sons, both of whom are enrolled in college. My wife works as an accounts receivable professional, while I pursue a freelance career in photography, collaborating with local newspapers and news agencies. I’m humbled to have recently received a Pulitzer Prize in breaking news photography. Our life in Los Angeles is fulfilling, we have our own home that we cherish, and a wonderful community we love.
I selected the word, “community.” I believe community is incredibly important — it allows one to thrive. In Los Angeles, there are people from all over the world, who like me, moved to LA in search of their dreams and a better life.We are all people, and it’s really important to be kind, to help each other, and to treat everyone with respect, no matter what we look like. Taking care of each other is a big part of making our neighborhood a nice place to live.
I believe I currently have the freedom to thrive. I have worked hard to pursue my passions and achieve my goals, and I am fortunate to live in a place where I have the opportunities and resources to do so. Additionally, I have the support of friends and mentors who have helped me along the way, and I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way. While challenges may arise, I am determined to continue working towards my dreams and making the most of the freedom and opportunities available to me.