The Rise of ESEA Community Influencers: How They Are Shaping Contemporary Culture
Social media influencers have a lot of power in today's interconnected world. Their words spread culture, bring people together, and start trends that spread across countries. The East and Southeast Asian community is no different. It has a strong network of influencers who are changing modern culture, busting stereotypes, and bringing people together worldwide. ESEA influencers are at the head of change, sending shockwaves around the world. They range from beauty moguls to comedy geniuses. Who Are These ESEA Community Influencers? The ESEA contemporary influencer scene boasts people who have not only achieved success but have also become culture stars. Let’s study ten of these trailblazers: Michelle Phan A trailblazer in the beauty world, Michelle Phan changed the art of beauty vlogging. How many girls were inspired by her methods - whether it was Lady Gaga, or Barbie, At a time where Asian faces were rarely seen in Cosmetic advertisements in the West, and products were not made for Asian skin tones, Michelle Phan taught young girls the tips and tricks, and also showed that our transformations had no bounds. Michelle’s journey from being a child of a Vietnamese single mum who worked in a nail salon, to become a leading influencer with her own beauty business, is a testament to her creativity and resilience, inspiring millions within and beyond the ESEA community. Susie Bubble (Susanna Lau) Susie Bubble has positioned herself as an important person in the fashion industry with her unique and mature sense of style. As an ordinary student at University College London who blogged for fun, she caught the attention of the fashion word with her quirky style. She pushed boundaries with her style, showing that you can really mix some of the unimaginable colours and cuts into something really trendy. Her unique look inspired many girls to be creative in their attire. Susie’s blog and social media platforms have become go-to sources for anyone seeking inspiration that supports individuality and ethnic blend. Ryan Higa (Nigahiga) Once hailed as YouTube’s comedic genius, Ryan Higa broke bounds with his smart, family-friendly humour. As one of the first big ESEA influencers on the platform, he brought ESEA humour and wit to millions of users, changing the early days of online entertainment and showing that laughter truly crosses limits. Lisa Manoban A world star and essential part of BLACKPINK, Lisa Manoban’s impact knows no limits. Her dynamic presence in music, fashion, and dance displays the strong blend of Thai heritage with international pop culture, making her a sign of global connection within the ESEA community. Bretman Rock Bold, funny, and totally unapologetic, Bretman Rock is a beauty icon whose lively personality celebrates Filipino heritage with style. His bold approach to self-expression has pushed norms and created a stage where genuineness rules supreme, enabling the ESEA contemporary youth to accept their identities. Wong Fu (founded by Philip Wang, Ted Fu and Wesley Chan) Wong Fu Productions is a Youtube production company, which would rack up millions of views for its creative and unique videos, from its early videos “Yellow Fever”, to “Strangers, Again”. Many Asian Hollywood actors started out in Wong Fu - from Simu Liu, to Ashley Park, and Harry Shum Junior. Not only did the Founders provide a platform for these aspiring actors, they also brought Asian faces to our screens at a time when they were absent in Hollywood. This opened up the door to more representation, which we have seen in recent years. Jessica Jung From being a K-pop sensation with Girls’ Generation to finding a place as a businesswoman, Jessica Jung exemplifies flexibility. Her work not only displays Korean culture but also underscores the power and creativity of the ESEA contemporary global movement. Jessica’s journey is a celebration of desire and ability. CL (Lee Chae-rin) The former head of 2NE1, CL is a force of nature who has successfully conquered the world of K-pop to become an international star. Her music and character are rooted in traditional Korean arts, which she mixes with edgy, global influences, making her a culture trailblazer and star for the ESEA community. Tiffany Young As a member of the Girls' Generation, Tiffany Young has changed what it means to balance global fame with deep cultural roots. Her music, fashion, and politics are linked with her identity as a Korean-American, producing a unique story that connects strongly with the ESEA diaspora. Natalie Tran The original queen of YouTube entertainment, Natalie Tran, brought a fresh viewpoint to online stories. Her approachable humour and satirical takes on everyday life allowed her to connect deeply with early internet audiences, establishing her as a pioneering voice within the ESEA community and inspiring countless artists to follow her path. Social Media: A Platform for Connection Social media influencers from the Asian community are leveraging their platforms to increase inclusion. They use their talent to normalise variety, question biases, and rethink what it means to be ESEA in the modern age. For instance, Susie Bubble’s Instagram shows avant-garde fashion often inspired by her Chinese roots, while Bretman Rock uses fun to praise Filipino customs. Through apps like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, these influencers share their stories, engage with fans, and connect globally. Their sincerity echoes, providing a place where the ESEA community app can grow. How Maccha Supports the ESEA Community Maccha is a groundbreaking app created to strengthen the ESEA community through technology and interaction. By focusing on local events, community groups, and cultural education, Maccha crosses the gap between custom and modernisation. The app curates resources for finding local ESEA groups and joining in cultural events in Europe, ensuring that everyone, from new arrivals to second-generation people, has a place to explore their identity. Additionally, Maccha promotes the work of ESEA community influencers, giving a stage for their stories to inspire and connect. Whether it’s finding secret gems in your city, visiting a cultural event, or supporting ESEA-led projects, Maccha is your partner in joining this active community. Join the Revolution of Representation with Maccha Maccha is proud to champion the ESEA community, fostering inclusivity and promoting the voices that make this group unique. From cultural pride to community support, we’re here to ensure the ESEA story continues to be told.
How to Avoid Common Gift-Giving Mistakes in Asian Cultures This Holiday Season
The holidays are here, and with Christmas and Lunar New Year just around the corner - it’s great time for gift-giving! But in many Asian communities, picking the right gift is about understanding cultural traditions and etiquette. A great gift can bring joy and improve relationships, but a badly picked one? It could surface old superstitions, or even cause offence. Whether you’re sharing gifts with friends, family, or someone from the East & Southeast Asian community, here’s your go-to guide for handling the do’s and don’ts of holiday giving. The Essentials of Gift Etiquette in the Asian Community Before getting into specific ideas, let’s talk etiquette. Gift-giving in Asian cultures often carries symbolic weight, and certain things are linked with good fortune, respect, and care. However, other gifts can accidentally express negative messages or bad luck. Here’s a cheat sheet:. Presentation matters: Use colourful gift paper, especially red or gold, for Chinese New Year, as these colors represent happiness and wealth. Avoid white or black, as they are usually linked with grief. Two hands, always: When giving or getting a gift, always use both hands as a sign of respect. Don’t open in front of the giver: In many Asian cultures, it’s polite to wait until later to open gifts, as doing so quickly can seem rude or eager. What Not to Give: Avoid These Gift-Giving Mistakes Some gifts might seem innocent at first glance but can carry bad meanings in Asian cultures. Here’s what to avoid: 1. Knives or Sharp Objects Why avoid Knives or Sharp Objects? These things symbolize breaking ties and separation. Giving a knife, tools, or anything sharp can accidentally suggest that you want to end the connection Alternatives: Instead of a knife set for a cooking lover, try high-quality kitchen tools like chopsticks or a wok 2. Clocks and Watches Why avoid Watches? In Chinese culture, giving a clock signifies the end of time, often linked to deaths and bad luck Alternatives: A sleek piece of art, like a box or a plant, is a better choice 3. Shoes Why avoid Shoes? Shoes can be seen as a sign of going away or breaking ways Alternatives: Gift socks instead – especially expensive, cozy ones for the holiday season 4. White or Black Gifts Why avoid White or Black Gifts? White and black are colors of grief in many Asian cultures, making them inappropriate for happy events Alternatives: Stick to red, gold, or bright hues that represent joy What to Give: Thoughtful and Culturally Sensitive Ideas Here are some winning ideas to ensure your gift is both important and well-received: 1. Red Envelopes (Hongbao) Why it works: Red packages filled with money are a beloved custom during Chinese New Year. They reflect good fortune and gifts for the year ahead Perfect for: Kids, teens, or anyone starting something new (a job, school, etc.) 2. Tea Sets or Premium Tea Why it works: Tea is a staple in Asian culture, representing unity and peace. A high-quality tea set or a range of loose-leaf teas makes for a classic and loved gift Pro Tip: Pair it with snacks for a creative gift 3. Snacks and Sweets Why it works: Edible gifts are widely loved and a safe bet for most events. |Popular choices include: Assorted mochi Festive treats like mooncakes or pineapple pies A gift basket filled with Asian snacks (Pocky, shrimp chips, or dried fruits) 4. Gold Accessories or Trinkets Why it works: Gold represents wealth and success in Asian cultures. A small gold ornament, like a bracelet or charm, is a luxe and thoughtful gift 5. Plants or Flowers Why it works: Symbolizing growth and renewal, plants like flowers, lucky bamboo, or bonsai trees make for thoughtful gifts Avoid: White flowers, which are often used in funerals 6. Cultural Items Why it works: Gifts that celebrate the recipient’s heritage or hobbies show real care. Examples include traditional clothes, handmade crafts, or a guide showing foods from their culture How Maccha Can Help You Gift Better Feeling a bit overwhelmed? That’s where Maccha Community App comes in! Maccha isn’t just a place to meet with the ESEA community, it’s also a hub for learning cultural traditions and finding the right gifts for your friends and family. Connect and Learn: Dive into groups where users share tips on holiday traditions and gift ideas Stay Updated on Events: Discover cultural events in the UK and festivals near you, great for giving ideas Build Genuine Connections: Use Maccha to learn more about your loved ones’ backgrounds and tastes, helping you pick the ideal present This Holiday Season, Gift with Thoughtfulness The holidays are about sharing joy, and the right gift can do just that – especially when it’s picked with care and cultural understanding. By avoiding common mistakes and focusing on important choices, you’ll show your loved ones just how much they mean to you. And if you’re ever in doubt, let Maccha Community App guide you through the process. From praising variety to encouraging real relationships, Maccha is here to make every gift-giving moment special. Download Maccha today and get in the spirit of connection and celebration.
Top 10 Must-Read Books on ESEA Culture: A Journey Through Stories and Perspectives
The East and Southeast Asian Community has a rich and varied past, full of stories that explore identity, culture, and survival. Whether you're looking to expand your understanding of ESEA culture or simply enjoy engaging tales, this selected list of must-read books offers insights into the lives, battles, and successes of people within this lively community. Each book offers a unique view on the ESEA experience, blending themes of family, identity, custom, and technology. If you're part of the ESEA group or interested in learning more, this book is for you. Let’s study these changing works. Essential Books That Illuminate the Richness of ESEA Culture Explore the richness and diversity of ESEA culture through these remarkable books. Each story offers a unique take on themes like family, identity, immigration, and resilience, giving a look into the lives and histories of the ESEA group. Whether you’re looking for emotional stories, exciting fiction, or thought-provoking social comments, this list has something for everyone. Wild Swans - Three Daughters of China - Jung Chang Theme of The Book: Chinese history, revolution, familial ties Genre: Memoir Jung Chang is one of the famous Chinese-British author, her famous ESEA culture book Wild Swans examines the lives of three generations of women in China: her grandma, mother, and herself. This deeply personal story shows the seismic changes in Chinese society during the 20th century, from the fall of imperial China to the Cultural Revolution. The book paints a vivid picture of how human lives connect with national events, giving a detailed view of ESEA culture's complexity. Why Do You Need to Read This ESEA Culture Book? Offers insight into generational trauma and resilience within the ESEA community Brings to life China’s turbulent modern history Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner Theme of the Book: Food, loss, Korean-American identity Genre: Memoir Michelle Zauner's latest book delves into her upbringing as a Korean American, her bond with her late mother, and her quest to rediscover her cultural heritage through Korean cuisine. Crying in H Mart connects with many in the ESEA community for its honest description of identity battles and cultural protection. What is the importance of reading this ESEA Culture Book? Emphasizes the role of food in keeping national identity A heartfelt study of loss and self-discovery The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan Theme of the Book: Chinese-American identity, Family, generational conflict Genre: Fiction A cornerstone of ESEA literature, Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club is an absolute classic from one of the most famous American writers of ESEA background. The book ties together the connected stories of four Chinese immigrant moms and their American-born children. With its lively story, the book digs into the challenges of mixing cultures, the ups and downs of mother-daughter relationships, and the tug-of-war between custom and technology. What is the importance of reading this ESEA Culture Book? This highlights the intergenerational challenges encountered by the ESEA community Celebrates the strength and tenacity of immigrant families We Were Dreamers: An Immigrant Superhero Story by Simu Liu Theme of the Book: Immigration, success, perseverance Genre: Memoir Simu Liu, best known for his part in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, shares his story from a poor immigrant family in Canada to becoming a Marvel Superhero. His story shows the determination and desire that many within the ESEA community can connect to. Why Do You Need to Read This ESEA Culture Book? Offers an inspiring tale of overcoming barriers and embracing identity Speaks to the dreams and challenges of the Asian diaspora Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua Theme of the Book: Parenting, cultural values, discipline Genre: Memoir Amy Chua’s controversial book examines her strict parenting style, based in traditional Chinese values. While divisive, the book brings up important talks about culture standards, identity, and parenting styles within the ESEA group. Why Do You Need to Read This ESEA Culture Book? A raw look at the cultural pressures within ESEA households Sparks debate about Asian parenting styles in modern Western society Pachinko by Min Jin Lee Theme of the Book: Immigration, family, Korean-Japanese identity Genre: Historical Fiction This familial story follows a Korean family living in Japan, exploring themes of racism, identity, and perseverance. Pachinko dives into the problems of being stuck between countries, making it a strong story within the ESEA group. Why Do You Need to Read This ESEA Culture Book? A masterful exploration of belonging and discrimination Sheds light on the overlooked Korean-Japanese experience Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan Theme of the Book: Wealth, culture, relationships Genre: Fiction Kevin Kwan’s humorous look at the lives of the ultra-wealthy in Singapore offers both humor and insight into ESEA culture. Beyond its glitz and glamor, the book quietly explores the clash between custom and technology. Why Do You Need to Read This ESEA Culture Book? A fun yet thought-provoking look at ESEA cultural dynamics Challenges stereotypes with its multifaceted characters Yellowface by R.F. Kuang Theme of the Book: Racism, identity, appropriation Genre: Fiction R.F. Kuang’s Yellowface tackles problems of cultural abuse and racism within the publishing business. Its cutting humor and controversial themes make it a must-read for understanding structural issues faced by the ESEA group. Why Do You Need to Read This ESEA Culture Book? Boldly confronts cultural erasure and marginalization Offers a modern perspective on identity and representation Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden Theme of the Book: Japanese culture, resilience Genre: Historical Fiction Although written by a non-Japanese author, Memoirs of a Geisha remains a fascinating picture of life in pre-WWII Japan. It brings to light the beauty and depth of Japanese society while also sparking conversations about sincerity in stories. Why Do You Need to Read This ESEA Culture Book? Provides a romanticized yet engaging glimpse into Japanese tradition Promotes critical conversations about representation Interior Chinatown by Charles Yu Theme of the Book: Stereotypes, identity, systemic racism Genre: Fiction Charles Yu’s National Book Award-winning book is a clever and satirical study of Asian-American stereotypes, told through the story of an actor stuck in a clichéd part in Hollywood. Its creative story pushes readers to face the biases and limits put on the ESEA community. Why Do You Need to Read This ESEA Culture Book? A powerful critique of systemic stereotyping Encourages self-reflection within and beyond the ESEA community BONUS: Black Box: The Memoir That Sparked Japan's #MeToo Movement by Shiori Ito Shiori Ito’s groundbreaking book is a brave account of her fight against sexual violence in Japan, sparking the country’s #MeToo movement. Her story shows structural issues and the need for change within the ESEA mindset. Connect with the ESEA Community Whether you’re exploring these books personally or sharing your thoughts through the ESEA Community App, connecting with stories of shared history improves cultural understanding. These works are not just narratives—they are a mirror of the diverse and strong ESEA society. Final Thoughts Exploring the Asian diaspora culture through writing gives a deep way to connect with its past, battles, and achievements. Each of these books offers a unique view, making them important reads for anyone interested in understanding this dynamic community.