After months of political protests and the onset of a recession, Hong Kong's resilient labor market is starting to crack.
Retailers, restaurants and hotels are cutting wages and hours or letting staff go just to survive. An end to the city's record-low unemployment level is widely anticipated if no solution to the five months of turmoil can be found.
Nestor Manuel, 21, is among those affected. He has recently taken a new job as a floor supervisor at Mint Supper Club in Hong Kong's nightlife district after having to shift roles multiple times in recent months. A floor supervisor helps to manage the customer-facing side of a restaurant.