Dominic Valencia

Dominic is a Filipino student currently attending high school in London.

OUR INTERVIEW

Question 1
How does your Filipino background appear in your everyday high school life in London, even in small or unexpected ways?

My Filipino background appears in my daily life through activities such as sports, particularly basketball, which holds cultural significance in Filipino communities.

Question 2
Have you ever had to explain a Filipino value, tradition, or mindset to your friends? What did they initially misunderstand?

At times, my friends ask about the meaning of “Kuya.” I explain that in Filipino culture, it is a term used to address an older brother or male cousin as a way of showing respect. It reflects the importance of hierarchy and respect within family relationships, which may not be as commonly emphasized in other cultures.

Question 3
Do you feel that your cultural background shapes how you think about family, success, or community? In what ways?

Yes I do think about family success due to cultural background. They want me to achieve the highest I possibly can academically so I can tell them in the future.

Question 4

Is there a stereotype about Filipino or Southeast Asian teens that you wish people understood better?