From Exclusion to Embracing Diversity

Life has taught me a lot about connection and the power of diversity. As a child, I often struggled to find my place. I grew up in a village where my mother and I were the only people of color. As a result, a nickname was constantly shouted at me in the schoolyard for two years. People used it to provoke me because they knew it would make me angry. It was a period of frustration for me, making it difficult to form friendships and build social connections.

This changed in high school when I met someone who shared the same background as me. That immediate connection inspired me to learn not only more about my own culture but also about others. By being open to different people and cultures, I discovered how enriching it is to embrace the many facets of diversity.

These experiences have shaped me into who I am today. I’ve learned to be open to everyone and everything that is different, to avoid putting people into boxes, and to appreciate the beauty in our differences. The most meaningful connections arise when you truly get to know each other, share cultures, and learn from one another.

Through CHAINGE, I share my story. What’s your story? Share it and join CHAINGE: a movement that connects stories. Stories of joy, grief, change and growth.

Together, we can break the silence and create a world where every voice is valued.

Thanks for hearing my story – Dindi