My Identity

Identity is who we are. It encompasses where we came from, what we’ve been through, and what matters to us individually.  One’s identity comes from unique blend of culture, experiences, friends, family and religion. These elements shape how we see the world. Self-identity is important in building meaningful relationships, resilience and making informed choices. My own identity is determined by culture, education and family are paramount. Society’s perception particularly regarding African culture influences how others see me and my own life experiences. This journey to self-discovery I value resilience in my personal growth to create a society where diverse identities are not just acknowledged but celebrated.

Life is a journey and growing up I’ve had a lot of life lessons and pivotal moments that made me who I am today. My early childhood I grew up in the suburban part of Kenya. I was fortunate enough to have good clothes on my back, shoes and other necessities. Early in my childhood I noticed my mother faced challenges since my father left and she had to take up the mantle of responsibility all on her own. I grew up as a single child, somehow this was easier on her, but I really felt lonely and would have loved a brother or sister to have a childhood with. Education was important to her, and she did her best to get me through school. I went to a local boarding school built by the British in the mid 1950’s. We learnt different but essential subjects such as English Math and sciences in different levels throughout the years. Culture became key to what I knew and what I came to learn as an adult. Missionaries really had and influence on our culture and Christianity was a big part in the community, a lot of churches sprouted up everywhere and going to church on Sunday was more so a routine. Some memories of growing up that defined my childhood involved being involved in church community projects and going to see my aunt who was a lab technician at the time, everybody adored her she had a spirit that would resonate your soul and we had a really good bond. Coming to the United States changed my life completely I can say that getting my education and how important that was early on in life propels me to strive for a future where I can still be of service to others, like my aunt while also improving my quality of life.

My position in society relative to power puts me at a marginal position, being a black man who immigrated to the US due to unfortunate reasons. I came here looking for refuge. At first, I came here to live with my dad who left when I was very young and started a whole new family. I depended on him for a while, but quickly established myself and became independent knowing it might be temporary. The pandemic hit him hard, and he succumbed to the illness. His loss saddened me but also left me alone to fend for myself since I was not part of this new family but a stranger. Being able bodied and conversant in the English language created an advantage as I set off to start my life. I then found my calling in healthcare. Starting at minimum wage, I worked my way up to the point where my skills are now considered desirable and valuable in the field. Growing up in my country, our socioeconomic status would be considered lower middle class. This inspired me to always work hard and strive to be better. My identity predominantly places me in a less dominant group based on the history black people have faced in this country in terms of addressing systematic inequalities and how immigrants are disliked in society. Thus, the share of opportunities and the distribution of resources I enjoy are far less and unequal. However, keeping myself out of trouble, avoiding conflicts and working hard has kept me going. Thankfully, I realized that education would greatly improve my quality of life and probably place me in a greater position of power in society.

Navigating the complexities of my identity, as a lone child and a minority relative to power I’ve discovered resilience among diversity. Rooted in my strength instilled by my upbringing, my identity serves as a guide through unfamiliar territories with grace and determination. I think of it as testament of perseverance and cultural heritage. My position relative to power puts me in the center of power where I confront and challenge societal norms facing some biases and stereotypes. My fathers passing and being out grouped by his family left a mark in how I value inclusivity. As I walk away, I carry not just my story, but a profound understanding of the beauty found in embracing diversity and overcoming challenges.