Belgian-Cameroonian singer Lubiana discussed her experiences with mixed heritage on the France Inter program “À la régulière” hosted by Mehdi Maïzi.
Her story highlights the psychological tension of navigating two distinct cultures and the challenge of finding a sense of belonging in a globalized world.
Lubiana spoke about the dichotomy of her identity, describing a history of being perceived as too black while in Belgium and too white when in Cameroon. She said she no longer feels forced to choose between these two cultural identities, instead embracing the duality of her roots.
This exploration of identity is mirrored in her professional work, including the release of her album “Terre Rouge.” Her musical journey began early in her life, marked by a high-profile appearance on the Belgian version of The Voice at age 18 [2].
Beyond her media appearances, Lubiana continues to perform live to share her cultural synthesis. She performed a concert at the Théâtre du Minotaure in Vendôme, France, on May 12, 2024 [1].
By integrating her Belgian and Cameroonian influences, Lubiana uses her platform to assert that mixed heritage is not a conflict to be resolved, but a strength to be celebrated. Her work serves as a bridge between the European and African experiences, utilizing music to navigate the complexities of the diaspora.
“Lubiana spoke about the dichotomy of her identity, describing a history of being perceived as too black while in Belgium and too white when in Cameroon.”
Lubiana's public discourse on 'dual identity' reflects a broader contemporary movement among artists of the diaspora to reject binary cultural labels. By framing her experience as an additive rather than a subtractive identity, she challenges the traditional immigrant narrative of assimilation, suggesting instead a model of cultural synthesis.
