Born to a Chinese father and a Dutch mother, my parents knew my life with a disability would bring challenges. But they also knew: their son had enough talent to find his place in society. They named me Kemai, which means “able to move forward” in Chinese.
Multicultural background as richness
Having grown up with both Chinese and Dutch culture, my multicultural background sits deep in my heart. I experience it as richness. A richness that has taught me there are different norms and values, different customs and habits. A richness that has taught me that “normal” doesn’t exist, it’s context-bound. A richness that has broadened my view considerably and helps me connect with others.
My multicultural background is an integral part of my identity: a piece of myself I feel connected to, and one that shapes who I am today, and who I want to become.
Being yourself isn’t always a given
I feel comfortable with my multicultural background and carry it with me gladly. But I also know that isn’t always easy or a given for everyone. At school, at the sports club, at work: being yourself can be hard. How much room is there to truly be yourself, when you don’t fit the norm?
Maybe you learn to speak the local language perfectly. You say nothing about that racist “joke,” that discriminatory remark, and you conform to the norm, because you’re afraid of being pushed outside the group, don’t know how to respond, or don’t want to make it a “big deal.” Your multicultural background has taught you to switch between different cultures and contexts. That’s a strength. But not when it makes you question your own background, and it costs you unnecessary energy to hide your identity. Not when it comes at the cost of yourself.
Your multicultural background is a strength
Your cultural background gives you an unmatched edge: to think outside the beaten path and connect with people from different walks of life. It allows you to broaden the norm, so there’s room for other voices too. Your cultural background feeds your talents. Your multicultural background is richness.
Want to know how to put it to use? I’d love to meet you.
Embrace your identity. Unlock your talent.