Meet Selina Yuet Kwan

Chinese Welfare Association

Selina Yuet Kwan Lee has lived in Northern Ireland for 59 years. Throughout much of that time, she worked in the catering industry. Following her retirement, she devoted herself to voluntary service within the Chinese community, serving as Principal of a Belfast Chinese Language School and Chairperson of the Oi Kwan Women’s Association.

In 2001, she was honoured with an MBE for her services to the community. Selina remains actively involved in the Northern Ireland Chinese Chamber of Commerce and the Chinese Welfare Association, continuing to support and advocate for the Chinese community in Northern Ireland.

Watch Selina’s Story

Video also available on Panopto

Phoenix Crown & Rosy Robe

The use of the phoenix as a headdress ornament for women of the Chinese imperial family can be traced back to the Han dynasty. During the Song dynasty, the phoenix crown became the principal ceremonial headwear for noblewomen within the imperial court. The Ming dynasty continued this tradition, and the ceremonial crowns worn by empresses and consorts were formally known as fengguan, or phoenix crowns. In later writings, ceremonial crowns worn by titled noblewomen outside the imperial household were also commonly referred to as phoenix crowns.

I have always felt a special connection to the phoenix crown and rosy robe, largely because my mother was a devoted admirer of Cantonese opera. When I was growing up in Hong Kong, she often took me to performances. From the very first one I attended, I was captivated by the traditional costumes. The brilliance and richness of the colours left a lasting impression on me, and from that moment I fell in love with Cantonese opera.

More than fifty years ago, I discovered this particular set of phoenix crown and rosy robe in a shop in Shenzhen and was immediately drawn to it. I eventually brought it back with me to Northern Ireland, where it has remained ever since. From time to time, I still wear it for performances at special events.

This outfit holds countless memories. It reminds me of my mother and of my childhood. I will always treasure and preserve it, hoping one day to pass it on to my children, and to their children after them.