Passion on the Airwaves: Three Generations of Radio Hosts Share Their Journey
At Commercial Radio Hong Kong’s CR903, three graduates from different generations have found their calling. Sammy Leung, Amber Au, and Ah Jeng – all alumni of the School of Journalism and Communication – now share the airwaves at one of Hong Kong’s most popular radio stations. When asked what drew them to broadcasting, their answers converge on a simple truth: the desire to connect with others. “It really was that straightforward,” Ah Jeng reflects. “Radio brought me joy as a listener, and I wanted to pass that feeling on.”
But why choose radio in an age of diverse media? “There’s something special about voice,” Amber explains. “It’s immediate and authentic – you can’t replicate someone’s tone or inflection. That creates a real connection with listeners.” For Sammy, radio offered unparalleled creative freedom when he started. “You’re wearing every hat – producer, writer, director, performer. When inspiration strikes, you can run with it. Creating something truly yours… there’s nothing quite like it.”
Three decades into his career, Sammy briefly contemplated retirement last year but discovered he wasn’t ready to leave the mic behind. Despite his success across multiple entertainment platforms, radio remains his first love. Amber, eighteen years in, still brings the same dedication that once had her routinely skipping meals to complete interviews – though she adds with a laugh that she’s since learned “not everyone shares my extreme approach.” As Ah Jeng approaches her tenth year of broadcasting, she acknowledges the demanding schedule that requires her presence at the station almost daily. While many of her contemporaries dream of freelance flexibility, she considers herself “incredibly fortunate” to do what she loves.
Yet it’s more than just passion that drives them. Sammy recalls a senior student warning him about the industry’s challenges and modest pay during his first year at university. “I actually tried to transfer out,” he chuckles. But thankfully that didn’t work out. His education taught him something valuable about media’s social responsibility. “Sure, my shows are meant to entertain, but they should offer something more. That’s what I learned in school – we have a duty to contribute positively to society.”
Ah Jeng’s tone grows serious as she reflects on her role: “Radio is there for our listeners through every kind of weather, every kind of day. That’s both our responsibility and our promise. When you put your name to something like that… yes, it’s exhausting sometimes, but it’s also a privilege. Not everyone gets to do this work, and that’s what keeps me going.”
For Amber, the lessons from her university days still resonate – particularly the traditional journalist’s virtues of “iron feet, horse eyes, and immortal’s stomach,” representing tireless mobility, keen observation, and unwavering dedication. “I’ve always aimed to help people see the beauty in different perspectives,” she says. “Through our programs, we can open windows to new ways of appreciating the world. That’s been my mission from day one.”
Profiles:
Sammy Leung (Class of ’96, School of Journalism and Communication, CUHK) began his career after winning a DJ contest in 1994. Beyond his role at CR903, he’s established himself as a versatile entertainer across television, theater, stand-up comedy, and film.
Amber Au (Class of ’07, School of Journalism and Communication, CUHK) has risen to become both a director and program host at CR903.
Ah Jeng (Class of ’15, School of Journalism and Communication, CUHK) started at Commercial Radio as a scriptwriter before moving into assistant and hosting roles at CR903. Her television appearances have made her a familiar face to Hong Kong audiences.
