Sheena Yap Chan’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of self-discovery, representation, and resilience. Growing up in Toronto during the 1990s, Sheena faced the challenges of navigating her identity as an Asian-Canadian in a media landscape that didn’t reflect her. Her story of overcoming self-doubt and championing representation resonates with countless others.
From Heather to Sheena: Embracing Identity
As a young girl, Sheena wished for blonde hair and blue eyes, wanting to change her name to Heather to fit in with Western norms. “Can you imagine being 9 years old and already facing self-esteem issues because no one looked like me in the media?” she recalls.
This lack of representation fueled Sheena’s lifelong passion for dismantling stereotypes and creating spaces where people like her could see themselves.
The Power of Representation
Sheena’s book, The Tao of Self-Confidence, is a milestone in her journey to inspire others. The title, influenced by Taoism, reflects her cultural roots and the idea that confidence has many paths. “Representation leads to possibilities,” she explains. “We can be authors, write for big publishers, and have our books in Indigo. What’s possible for me is possible for you.”
Sheena recalls the pride of seeing her book in a Philippine bookstore and sharing the moment with her grandmother. It’s these milestones that remind her why representation matters—not just for herself but for future generations.
Turning Trauma into Triumph
Sheena’s path wasn’t without struggles. Moving to Canada from the Philippines, she carried the weight of cultural expectations and personal setbacks. “I failed kindergarten for coloring outside the lines,” she says. “That failure stayed with me, making me feel like I wasn’t good enough.”
Through self-reflection and seeking help, Sheena learned to let go of the need for approval, especially from her parents. She shares, “I had to stop people-pleasing and focus on my own growth. Otherwise, I’d always see myself as a failure.”
The Mission Behind the Work
Sheena’s purpose extends beyond personal success. Her podcast, also titled The Tao of Self-Confidence, has featured over 800 interviews with women, showcasing diverse journeys to self-assurance. “Each person’s way to confidence is different,” she says. “The key is finding what works for you and being open to help.”
Her work also honors her late aunt, who taught her the value of living without regrets. “She did everything she wanted in her late 50s,” Sheena reflects. “I don’t want to look back on my life with regrets. That’s why I quit my job and forged my own path.”
Breaking Cultural Norms
Sheena emphasizes the importance of asking for help, a practice often stigmatized in Asian cultures. “We’re taught that asking for help is a sign of weakness, but it’s not,” she insists. “We all have blind spots, and having someone point them out can help us move forward faster.”
Inspiring Confidence and Community
Sheena’s journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we embrace our identity, heal from past traumas, and work collectively. Her mission is clear: to uplift the Asian community and show that confidence and representation go hand in hand.
“Humans are made to create and use their talents,” she says. “We owe it to ourselves to be excellent and to help one another. Together, we can solve the big problems.”
Through her books, podcast, and advocacy, Sheena Yap Chan continues to inspire others to believe in themselves, embrace their roots, and boldly take up space in a world that’s ready for their stories. 🌟
