Although Singapore has improved by leaps and bounds in its social acceptance of the transgender, it remains a taboo subject. Transgender individuals often face ridicule and scorn, not least because of the stereotypes associated with them that are less than flattering.
It may come as a surprise to some, but contrary to the stereotypes of the Desker Road or Changi Village transgender, many gender-ambiguous individuals have a stable family life and even have children. They also have sound parenting values, and like the rest of us, only want the best for their children.
Hedrick Kwan, a horticulturist by profession, and also the owner Plant Visionz is one such person. Though born a man, Hedrick identifies with being female and loves to wear silk scarves. He is also a lot more comfortable shopping in the ladies' department.
That's where the differences end though. Like most 'normal' men, Hedrick also has a loving wife and 2 highly active boys, aged four and six. On the career front, he is expanding his business in Australia and has since relocated there with the entire family a year ago.
This is what he has to say about being a transgender parent.
How open are you about your sexuality?
I dont have any issues answering questions. If anyone asks, I will share that I am a transgender. I also do tell some people I have just met that I am different so as to break any barriers so the relationship can be more natural. I'm very much open as can be.
Have your children asked you about your sexual orientation?
Actually my kids have not asked much questions about the way I look at all. I actually have taught them to call me mummydaddy. I explained to them that I am both mummy and daddy to them. They have mummy and they have mummydaddy. I look after my kids from birth and did everything a mother would except giving birth and breast feeding.