smanliwu@gmail.com

Hi there!

Writer & Strategist

I’m Sophia — creative writer, journalist, art lover, globetrotter, and content marketing whiz.

After spending my 20s building my career in writing in my hometown of Washington, DC, I decided to take a leap and move to Hong Kong when I turned 30. Within 3 days of my decision.

It turned out to be the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. From watching midnight cityscapes light up under starry skies to marveling at some of world’s most compelling art to eating my way through cha chaan tengs (Cantonese diners) and the occasional Mister Softee ice cream truck, I fell in love with not only the wonders my new city had to offer— but also the person I was becoming here.

I moved into the strategy & insights sphere for work, immersing myself in trends, news, and market research for the travel industry. I love learning about what drives consumer choices, piecing together the trend behind the trend, and keeping an active pulse on how culture is changing while the world reflects on it.

I’ve been lucky enough to dabble in a little bit of everything — fashion, finance, art, mental health, to name a few. It’s given me the confidence to know I can go into any industry and pick up what I need to learn efficiently. I’m inquisitive, outspoken, and innovative. I also know how to listen and accept feedback. My values are rooted in empathy and gratitude.

Let’s keep creating.

Found this note in my parents’ house for the first time I returned home since moving abroad. I’m happy I made my 20-year-old self’s dreams come true.

What’s next for my 30s?

203 Issue 
SQSP Magazine
Editorial Styling
Street Photography

When I'm not styling and directing, I provide creative consulting for luxury fashion brands across the globe. My travels have inspired my first book project, a coffee table book featuring street photography of the most fashionable people waiting for public transit.

Commercial folio available upon request.

Latest Project

Transit street photography,
Launching early next year

Client List

Creative Direction,
2021

#Magazine

Stylist, 2022

SQSP launch

Stylist, 2020

Editorial Collection

Associate Stylist,
2019

Quinn Issue No.2

Associate Stylist,
2020

Quinn Issue No.1