Why DML
My Dad writing a book around the evolution of the people, place and culture and history of my village into the present-day vibrant town in the Eastern part of Nigeria, and on the continent of Africa was his way of connecting back to his roots.
In helping him out with the typing (before he learned how to type on a computer) and reviewing multiple drafts of his manuscripts, the seed was planted in me to research and learn a lot about my roots.
Born to Nigerian parents and moving back to Nigeria from the USA, my parents were intentional about immersing all of their children in the culture. This showed up as a minimum of 3 trips in a year to my hometown in the Eastern part of Nigeria. Those experiences shaped my worldview on what it means to know my roots. The journey to my hometown, the birthplace of my forefathers, provided an opportunity for my siblings and I to ask questions about the people, places and cuisine.
Gathering around the open fire with the other grandkids in my grandpa’s compound to listen to folk tales, I have learnt that it is not just about where I am from but about the stories around who my people are that connects me to my roots.
Through Day MyLane, I would like to share these stories with the next generation as it was shared with me and with generations before.
As a storyteller, I am an ambassador of my culture, and it is both a privilege and an honor to be able to capture the unique and rich stories that make up who I am and how I see myself. There is power in storytelling and I believe my experiences make for a great book, perhaps in the future, and all begins with sharing my experience through the Day MyLane blog.
Day MyLane helps you connect with your roots by giving you a say in how you choose to show up, through clothing, stories, cuisine, and experiences.
My desire is that one day, the next generation gets a taste of some of these exciting experiences or at a minimum, propels them to find out more about their roots.
No shaking! We got you!