The Intersection of Black and Immigrant Identities in Pursuing Professional Success and Making Black History
How do you feel being an immigrant/child of an immigrant impacted what you saw as career possibilities?
Being the product of immigrants empowered me to strive for the highest professional heights I could achieve. My parents’ bravery in immigrating gave me the mental fortitude needed to succeed. I didn’t believe I had limitations that allowed me to take calculated professional risks, like starting my own business. Those things that seemed illogical on paper have been the most rewarding wins of my professional life.
Do you feel the Black American experience is different than the experience of Black Immigrants?
How do you think those differences help or hinder you?
I don’t differentiate my black experience from the next person’s by geographical location. I think for Black people who are raised or come of age in America, whether first generation American or fundamental Black, the horrors of slavery are fresher. But immigrating comes with its own issues. We all have our challenges we must surmount to be successful.
What was the goal for you? What helped to drive you to your accomplishments?
My drive to succeed isn’t for the sake of checking something off a list; it’s aboquiut being satisfied and fulfilled. If you don’t enjoy what you do, it’s a task.
Were there any rules of thumb or sayings repeated to you in your childhood that you live by to this very day?
Stay focused, and don’t be sidetracked by outside influences. Unfortunately, you are a black boy, and the world will make it harder for you. so you have to strive for greatness. The goal should be A. Never B or C. Carry yourself with respect
Pick three theme songs for your life. One for childhood, one for when you just entered the working world, and what’s your current theme song?
Childhood– “ One Love “ by Bob Marley
Entered the workforce- “ When you Believe” by Mariah Carey
Now – “We Are” by Jon Batiste
Did you know that by being who you are and pursuing your aspirations, you would be helping to write the following chapters of Black History? How does that make you feel?
Pursuing my dreams and desiring to make the most of my life, I never stopped to consider my place in black history. That’s usually how it happens, though. When your motives are genuine, and you’re willing to do the work, the results are greater than you can imagine. I’m honored to be considered part of black history. I will continue to represent black excellence to the best of my abilities.