German | Nigerian
When I was younger, I would often keep of my Islamic upbringing quiet. I went to a majority White secondary school; a big contrast with where I went to primary school which was diverse and majority Muslim. I felt it was already challenging being mixed German/Nigerian before adding that I was Muslim too.
I was often made to feel I was different. This happened in Germany a fair amount with comments on my skin colour. Although it didn't feel malicious, it was othering. It has also happened in Nigeria to an extent too.
My Dad was a strong and present figure in my upbringing, which was valuable. He gave me tips on how to survive as a Black or mixed race man in the UK. He gave ‘the talk’ which I am sure many Black and mixed boys and girls are aware of! ‘You have to work twice as hard to get half as far’.
It was deemed special to be mixed when I was growing up. A lot of that was tied up in colourism however, where being mixed or ‘light-skinned’ was deemed as a beauty ideal. I am glad people are challenging this now. I do still feel proud, but more in how being having multiple cultures and races is a strength for me. I am able to relate with almost everyone, having built empathy for different experiences.
I am trying to push the fact that I am mixed-race with Black friends and colleagues. I feel strongly about my mixed-race identity, especially because German culture heavily influenced my upbringing, and I feel uncomfortable being classed as Black without the context behind it.
My role model is @akalamusic. His book ‘Natives’ was fantastic and resonated with me so much, especially as a mixed-race boy navigating London. Akala is just a brilliant orator too, both in music and in conversation. Inspiring!
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