NIGERIAN CHINESE
NOELLE WOON
22, MODEL
“As a Blasian (black Asian) in Singapore, people find me cool and unique rather than weird. They ask: “Where are you from?”, “Is your hair real?” But once I speak, they know I’m Singaporean – my accent is so strong that it throws them off.
I’m glad to be mixed, as I have the traits of two races. For example, I naturally have a lot of rhythm because of my African side. I have a modelling contract and having an exotic look helps to bring across a different style in high fashion apparel.
However, I feel predominantly Chinese as I grew up with a single mum and the rest of my Chinese family. I have no exposure to African culture, although when I speak to African people, I learn more about the culture, and they are very open to showing me what it is like.”
EUROPEAN MELANESIAN CHINESE
MICHELLE AYN TESSENSOHN
46, LIFE COACH
“My Dad is Eurasian with Chinese, British, Portuguese, German and Melanesian heritage. My Mum is Dutch Burgher (Eurasian from Sri Lanka) and has Sinhalese, Dutch, Irish and Scottish blood. My parents met at a mutual friend’s party.
I recently learnt about my Melanesian roots after my paternal aunt took a DNA test, but I have no conscious connection to the culture. I identify most with my South-east Asian heritage – I always need to be near the sea, and I don’t do well in cold climates.
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