Blending Cultures: Hakim’s journey as a White Asian Ghanaian

In an increasingly interconnected world, stories like that of Hakim, a White Asian Ghanaian, shine a light on the complex and fascinating intersections of race, culture, and identity.

Born and raised by his Ghanaian grandfather, Hakim's shared that his unique heritage bridges continents, blending the traditions of Asia, Europe, and Africa into a rich tapestry of cultural values and experiences.

During a podcast interview about his upbringing, Hakim shared how his African roots blended with his Asian roots have added layers of cultural influence that shaped his worldview.

From getting accustomed to a blend of Ghanaian and Punjabi cultures, as well as learning the value of respecting the elderly, Hakim shared that his upbringing with his grandfather played a significant role in shaping his life.

In his account, Hakim explained that he was not accustomed to being spoken to firmly or in a commanding way, as he was raised with a different approach by his mother.

He was however able to navigate through despite the challenges and difficulties.

“I heard all these different accents where he spoke a variety of different Ghanaian languages. My mum speaks Punjabi and then my Nan saying ‘You don’t have to study this let’s just watch a film’ and then my grandad saying ‘Hey, don’t let him watch all these films. Hakim! Go and pass me my shoe now’ and I hadn’t been used to being spoken to in such a kind direct orderly way like that.

"When I was very young it was hard and there was back and forth and I’d guess argue,” he explained.

Hakim narrated how his bond with his grandfather strengthened when he finally entered Senior High School.

“As I got into secondary school, our bond strengthened so much. I had problems with teachers. People assume I was a born academic but in reality I struggled a lot and I would come home and vent...”

Hakim described his grandfather's words of advice during the difficult stages when he was trying to navigate school as a pivotal moment in his life.

He believes those lessons prepared him for the future.

Watch Hakim’s interview below:



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