Press Releases

The display has been created in partnership with the Chinese in Wales Association as part of the Our Stories project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. It features the stories of eight multi-generational people of Chinese heritage living in Wales today, told in their own words.

There have been Chinese communities in Wales since at least the early 1900s. Many of the early settlers were seamen. From the 1940s, changing political conditions and economic opportunities led to an increase in Chinese migration to Wales.  

Today, people of Chinese heritage live across the country, creating a vibrant mix of cultures, faiths and languages. There are large, well-established communities in Bangor, Cardiff, Newport and Swansea.  

Through personal stories and everyday objects, visitors to the Museum can learn about the individuals’ journeys to Wales, and the challenges they faced in building a new life in a country far from their homelands. The stories show how they, and their descendants, have made their mark on all aspects of Welsh life: through the jobs they worked, the businesses they built, and the contributions they make to our communities and culture.

Sioned Hughes, Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales’ Head of History and Collection Development, said:

“We are proud to be working in partnership with the Chinese in Wales Association to share these important stories in the Wales is… gallery at St Fagans. The oral histories recorded by the Our Stories project – which form the basis of the new display –  will be archived at the Museum. We are immensely grateful to the community for sharing their lived experiences with us for future generations.”

Shirley Au-Yeung, founder and Chief Executive of the Chinese in Wales Association, said:

 "We are honoured to share the voices of our community in this year-long display, celebrating the resilience and contributions of people with Chinese heritage living in Wales. Twenty people’s stories are archived at the Museum and People’s Collection Wales, creating a lasting legacy for future generations. We thank Amgueddfa Cymru and the National Lottery Heritage Fund for supporting this important work."

The display will be available to see until 12 November 2025. 

ENDS