Selena Carty - Cultural & Ancestral Consultant & Historian - Season 5 - #225
How does one's upbringing in a vibrant yet challenging environment shape their identity? This is precisely what we uncover with the incredible Selena Carty, a cultural and ancestral consultant and global African military historian. Growing up in Brixton during the 80s as the eldest sibling in a Windrush generation family, Telena's early passion for truth and history was ignited by her mother's simple yet profound gesture—buying encyclopedias. Telena opens up about her journey from an inquisitive child to a knowledgeable historian, emphasizing the importance of heritage and the quest for knowledge in personal development.
We then navigate the intricate ties between cultural heritage and education, particularly for those with a West Indian background. Selena and I discuss how schools often prioritize test scores over cultural values, making family traditions crucial for cultural transmission. We delve into the challenges immigrants face in preserving their identity amidst societal pressures and the lingering effects of colonialism on education and cultural erasure. This conversation underscores the importance of nurturing both personal and communal identities and the role of respect and individual autonomy in navigating these complex cultural dynamics.
The episode culminates in a powerful exploration of self-acceptance and personal empowerment. Selena shares how embracing one’s natural self, understanding and documenting our history, and blending traditional beliefs with modern faiths can lead to profound personal growth. From the symbolism of personal adornments to the impact of music on our lives, we reflect on the journey of self-rebirth and the significance of setting and achieving personal goals. Join us in this enriching dialogue that encourages embracing potential, overcoming challenges, and fostering a deeper connection to heritage and personal growth.
Website: https://www.gold.ac.uk/our-people/profile-hub/history/ug/selena-carty/
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“If you don’t see a history book with your culture – Write One teach people that each island or country has a history that inspires, impacts, teach people that without your culture maybe you and I would not exists because of what we inherited from our generations of ancestors”
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