2. A self-portrait: who am I?

A portrait photo of me.

Introduction

My identity is the intersection of three nations: Congo, Uganda, and Canada. 

That’s why I’ve split this blog into three main sections. Each section is a window through which I try to understand myself.

I hope you find this blog useful.

My Congolese identity 

I was born and raised in Kinigi. Kinigi was a lively village in eastern Congo. The warm traditions of Kinigi have led to friendship, celebration, and music in my own life.

Kinigi is the origin of my love and desire for greeting others. In my childhood, Kinigi took pride in the handshake and hug, our traditional greetings. The cheerful greetings always led to laughter and conversation, which had the power to uplift and heal.

Kinigi has also brought celebration to my life. Celebration was a force that united the village. Now, my family observes the tradition during birthdays or when relatives visit. During these feasts, we share food and honor our Kinigi roots.

Lastly, Kinigi has decorated my life with music. In Kinigi, we would chant and sing songs that boosted hope and morale in the community. That’s why we continue to sing to enhance our family gatherings today. As we sing together, I always do my part to harmonize with everyone and show the deep respect I have for my family’s traditions. 

Kinigi forms a fundamental part of my identity. I’m the person I am now because of my origin in the village. I’ll always treasure Kinigi and the warm traditions of friendship, celebration, and music it taught me.

My Ugandan identity 

For a long time, I was an immigrant in Kampala, Uganda. The city’s lifestyle struck me as modern, religious, and athletic. Unlike my birthplace in Congo, living in the heart of Kampala introduced me to the English language, faith, and sports.

Kampala taught me the English language. The opportunity to start primary school in the city taught me the basics of English. Now, I can communicate creatively in part because of the English lessons I received in primary school.

Kampala has also sparked faith in my life. As a child in Kampala, I understood the importance of religion and faith in life. My devout Pentecostal family would congregate weekly for prayer, praise, and worship. Because of my religious background, I live with faith and hope today.

Lastly, Kampala elevated the joy in my life through sports. Everyone in the city loved playing and spectating football. My family also continues to take part in the beautiful game today.

Kampala is my partial identity. Without the city, I lose language, faith, and sports in my life. The three virtues form a vital part of my identity.

My Canadian identity

I’m a Canadian citizen. As a Canadian, I’m in awe of the wonderful charity in the country. The charity I received as a citizen in Saskatchewan and Ontario has inspired me to help others at home, in the community, and online.

Canada has made me a proud helper at home. My passion to clean, cook, and shop at home has been in part inspired by Regina, Saskatchewan. I’m beyond grateful to the Regina Open Door Society (RODS), which instilled charity in me. If my family hadn’t partnered with RODS, we wouldn’t have integrated smoothly into Canada.

Canada has also made me an employee in the community. I’m grateful to Mohawk College, The Career Foundation (TCF), and Goodwill. My professional development from these institutions allowed me to apply my passion for helping in the community.

Lastly, Canada has made me a blogger online. I wouldn’t be a blogger without charity in my life. Through the gift of the internet in Canada, I could see myself as a blogger online. I hope that my blog will embody the grace and charity that Canada has taught me. 

Without my experiences in Canada, my identity would be incomplete. The charity I had in the country allowed me to start helping at home, in the community, and online. As a Canadian, I’m proud of our values.

Conclusion

I’m the combined set of The Three Me’s: The Congolese Me, The Ugandan Me, and The Canadian Me.

But it’s hard to capture a whole life through nationality. Even with this blog, there’s still more to learn about me.

I invite you to ask questions about my journey. I’ll do my best to answer any questions you may have.

I’m excited to continue this journey of self-discovery with you.

The reference artwork