We chat with JULIE EADEH, United States Consul General Hong Kong & Macau, about her diplomatic career, and about enjoying Hong Kong life with her husband David, their two sons and Jango the shih tzu.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.
I grew up in Michigan, an amazing state where winters are freezing cold, but the people are down to earth. I love how much Michigan has contributed to America’s development in the auto industry, defence, music, culture and arts. Michiganders value hard work, resilience and practicality – just like me!
My parents immigrated to the United States in the 1970s with very little except determination and faith in the promise of America. My mother went to work in a factory shortly after arriving, and my father laid tile to support our family. Watching their sacrifices shaped my understanding of dignity, perseverance and service from a very young age.
I decided to major in history at Eastern Michigan University and later did my master’s degree in Middle East studies at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Studying history taught me how interconnected societies truly are.
I never imagined I would be here today. But I found mentors there who believed in me, and that gave me the confidence to pursue a life of public service.
What inspired you to embark on a career in diplomacy?
I was inspired by the opportunity to represent the United States abroad. I wanted to work toward building connections and understanding between Americans and the world.
One of the things I often tell students is that being true to yourself is your superpower. Having grown up in a working-class family, I learned from an early age to connect with people from all walks of life. And I learned that authenticity matters more than pedigree. I think it’s important to be authentic with everyone you meet.
At its core, diplomacy is about people. That’s what I love most about it.
You began as Consul General here last year; how did the opportunity come up, and what experience did you have in Hong Kong or China generally before moving here?
Hong Kong has been part of our family story for many years. My husband, Dave, who was born in Massachusetts but raised in Arizona, comes from a Hong Kong family that immigrated to the United States, so the city has always had special meaning for us.
Hong Kong and mainland China have also been important parts of my diplomatic career. My husband, also a diplomat, and I served at the US Consulate General in Shanghai as well as previously here in Hong Kong.
Coming back to Hong Kong as Consul General felt very meaningful both personally and professionally. The ties between the United States and Hong Kong span more than 180 years through trade, education, culture and people-to-people connections, so it’s very special to be here again.
What are some qualities you feel are important for the job, and what would you like to achieve during your service here?
Flexibility and resilience are essential because diplomats serve all over the world, often in very challenging circumstances.
You also need curiosity, humility and the ability to connect with people from very different backgrounds and perspectives. Diplomacy is fundamentally about trust and relationships.
My top priorities are keeping America safe, strong and prosperous. That includes protecting American citizens, supporting the approximately 1,400 American companies operating in Hong Kong and Macau, and strengthening law enforcement cooperation that helps keep our communities secure.
What’s your favourite aspect of your work?
I love meeting Hongkongers and learning about their perspectives on the United States. I also really enjoy engaging with my fellow Americans – including business leaders, students, educators, families and entrepreneurs.
This year is especially meaningful because the United States is celebrating its 250th anniversary throughout 2026. The US Consulate here, established in 1843, is one of America’s oldest diplomatic missions in Asia, and we’re proud of the longshared history connecting Americans and the people of Hong Kong.
What has been your most memorable meeting so far?
Some of the most memorable moments in diplomacy are not always formal meetings, but conversations with ordinary people whose stories stay with you. I’ll never forget meeting families in refugee camps or speaking with students who are eager to make a difference in the world. Those moments remind you that diplomacy is ultimately about humanity and service.
Any surprises you’ve found living and working in Hong Kong?
One thing I absolutely love is the swimming culture here. Hong Kong has incredible public sports facilities – it feels like there’s a world class 50-metre pool in every neighbourhood. Since swimming regularly in Hong Kong’s public pools, I’ve actually improved both my strength and speed. But you really have to fight for space!
Where do you live in Hong Kong and what do you like about the area?
We live on the Peak in a historic residence that housed generations of US Consuls General. The original home was acquired by the US government in 1949 and rebuilt in 1987. It is a rare property in that it has views of both Victoria Harbour and the South China Sea. It’s an honour to reside in this historic home, which also serves as a symbol of the enduring US diplomatic presence in Hong Kong.
Dave and I like to hike down from the Peak and then back up again. We love to take Jango along with us, too. She mostly cooperates, but every now and then she’ll plant her paws and insist on being carried partway through!
What are a few things you like to do in HK when you’re not working?
Swimming is definitely at the top of the list. I also enjoy hiking, eating and shopping. But more than anything, family is my grounding. Some of my happiest moments are the simplest ones: weekend walks, watching our sons play sports, or movie nights at home. We tell our sons that home is wherever we are together.
What’s one surprising thing readers might not know about you?
People are often surprised to learn that I’ve completed half marathons, climbed the Great Wall of China, and swum across the Bosphorus Strait between Asia and Europe. I was born with a spinal deformity and questioned whether I would ever be physically capable of doing those things. But one of the lessons I’ve learned is that struggle does not define your limits – it shapes how you achieve your goals.
Quick questions about Hong Kong: what is your favourite…
Local food: Dim sum, and special meals for Lunar New Year breakfast and Mid-Autumn Festival banquets.
Nature spot: Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens – our boys grew up playing around the fountain when they were younger, so it reminds me of their early years.
Thing to do with visitors: Hiking and eating! Hosting dinners at the Residence
The Consulate General of the United States, Hong Kong and Macau is at 26 Garden Road, Central.
This article on the United States Consul General Hong Kong & Macau, first appeared in the Summer 2026 issue of Expat Living magazine. You can buy the latest mag or an annual subscription, or read the digital version for free now.
