Ethnically, I’m half Swedish and half Nigerian. I was given up for adoption at 10 days old, back in 1961, and my adoptive parents were white. I didn’t necessarily appreciate the social toxicity they endured until much later in my life, but now I look back on a totally different world. Mum always said, “Everyone has a story, and you have to listen”. And I’ve always carried that with me.
Growing up with a supportive family, I was lucky. I was safe. But that’s my story. And it’s not about me anymore. It’s about who comes after me. Diversity is a fact. Inclusion is a choice. And we must listen. Because people will forget what you said, but they never forget how you made them feel.
It’s these beliefs that are central to my identity. And even though they’re a product of my past; they’re also a product of my desire to create a more inclusive future, for everyone.
Thana's identity story
A while back, I heard that scientists had invented a medicine which makes people forget painful memories. I was charmed by the idea. Read story.
Caryn's identity story
I think identity is such a complex thing. Even without the geographical complexity my identity brings. Read story.
