What Race is Zendaya Coleman?
Zendaya Coleman is of mixed race. On her Father’s side, her father is an African-American with Arkansas ancestry and her mom is descended from German and Scottish ancestors.
In a PSA for non-profit organization Welcome US, the former Disney star sat down with her parents Claire Stoermer and Kazembe Ajamu to discuss her family history and cultural background.
The actress-singer discusses her parents’ German and African heritage, as well as how she has evolved to reflect both cultures.
Zendaya also explains what her entire name, Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman, means in different cultures.
“I have a first name from Africa. My middle name is [my mother’s] middle name, which is French but we spelled it in an African way.
She explains, “It’s literally me in a name.” “Then there’s Stoermer and Coleman,” says the narrator. My name is truly on a historical timeline.”
“I’m from Africa, as well as Germany,” she adds. That’s something I’m incredibly proud of.
Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman, the daughter of teachers Claire Stoermer and Kazembe Ajamu Coleman, was born on September 1, 1996, in Oakland, California.
Zendaya has five elder siblings. Her name comes from the Shona name Tendai, which means “to give thanks.”
