Who are you? Give us an overview of your ethnicity/heritage?
My name is Carlos. I’m a 29 year old male, born and raised in South Brisbane. I currently reside in Newstead. I’m half Filipino from my mum’s side and half Kiwi (New Zealander) from my dad’s side.
Name one thing you really passionate about and why?
I love fashion. What intrigues me the most is not so much the latest trends or designer outfits, but how people put together their individual look. This strongly depicts personal expression. Fashion can also be a collaboration especially when picking out different styles.
What would you say is the best approach to enhancing society’s understanding of different cultures?
I think it’s cool that more and more diversity is being embraced and encouraged in different parts of the country. This allows the masses to mingle and explore different cultures which in-turn helps in bridging cultural gaps.
What aspects of Australia’s multicultural society do you find fascinating?
I love all cultures – mostly for their unique fashion styles and different kinds of foods. I also enjoy interacting with people from all walks of life and tend to date people that are very different from my cultural or ethnic background.
What kind of experiences have you had in relating with people whose backgrounds differ from your own?
It depends on where you go. Growing up in Brisbane, there wasn’t much of a multicultural vibe but as I have travelled and visited places like Melbourne – I’ve had the pleasure of meeting interesting people from varied cultural origins. The majority of people there are into the different cultures, fashion, food and events. It’s more embraced down there.
What have you learnt/what are the key lessons from these experiences/encounters?
I was exposed to different cultures on both my mum and dad’s side and this upbringing encouraged me to embrace all people despite their differences. The beauty of humanity lies in our differences.
In your opinion, how can multiculturalism be used as a vehicle for positive change?
Everyone is different, even those that belong to the same culture or racial group. We should all embrace our personality and cultural differences and use them as an opportunity to learn and expand our understanding of humanity.
What fun and interesting activities/events can we do/hold to aid in bridging the cultural gap thereby creating an inclusive society for all to enjoy
Music and Street food festivals is a good way for people to showcase their culture and customs.
We should also take a light-hearted approach when engaging with one another and be free to make fun of each other cultural quirks – I tease my mum’s Filipino accent but she knows I’m joking and we all have a laugh about it.
Follow Carlos @Concrete.trend
