African children feel out of place

As you mindlessly scroll through your daughter’s sweet sixteen birthday party photos, you observe the excited yelps in between their conversation as she shares that although born in Senegal to Ghanaian parents, they all relocated to North America just before second grade. Their chatter around what is the most delicious rice dish catches your attention - Biryani, Paella and Jambalaya, but no mention of Jollof rice.

BINGO! This realization pierces your heart.
Growing up in a vibrant and caring community, it dawns on you that this adorable, talented and caring young girl may miss out on the unique sense of self and belonging that comes from such connections, which boost confidence and self-awareness. This is a common challenge faced by second and third culture Africans in the diaspora.Finding connection with like-minded individuals from the African diaspora in North America becomes essential, creating a longing for shared roots.

“A tree with strong roots laughs at storms.”

Being a multicultural child of African descent in a diverse society can be daunting, juggling various cultural identities and trying to feel connected to all of them. However, there are effective ways for Africans living in the diaspora to help their children stay rooted in their heritage.

One approach is to engage in activities that educate children about their heritage and provide opportunities to bond with others who share similar backgrounds. Organizing gatherings with friends and family can help build a supportive community that nurtures the child's confidence and identity. Celebrating cultural holidays, sharing stories, connecting with elders to learn traditions, all contribute to reinforcing a child's sense of belonging and understanding of their roots.

Navigating the complexities of second and third culture identity can be a challenging yet enriching journey for many. Like a tree with roots in different soils, individuals from the diaspora often find themselves balancing between two worlds. The struggle to hold onto one's heritage while embracing a new culture can be a delicate dance.

“A second or third culture child of African descent is someone who navigates between their heritage culture and the culture of the country they were raised in.
They embody a blend of traditions, languages, and values, bridging two worlds with a unique perspective and rich cultural experience.”

Bicultural kids grow up immersed in two distinct cultures, often developing a deep understanding and appreciation for both. They may fluidly switch between cultural norms and languages, feeling a strong sense of belonging in each. Third Culture Kids (TCKs) grow up in multiple countries due to their parents' work or other reasons, creating a unique cultural blend. They often encounter challenges like frequent relocations, cultural identity struggles, and a sense of not fully belonging to any one culture. However, TCKs also tend to be adaptable, open-minded, and skilled at cross-cultural communication. Biculturals and TCKs benefit from diverse perspectives, empathy towards others, and a rich tapestry of experiences. While biculturals have a more stable foundation in two cultures, TCKs have a broader global worldview shaped by their nomadic upbringing. Ultimately, both groups contribute valuable insights to our increasingly interconnected world.