Identity, Validation, and the Journey

This chapter explores the experiences of a scholar activist dedicated to body politics and the complexities of racial identity, specifically focusing on the lives of Black women and girls. It weaves a personal narrative of growing up in a Ghanaian home in New Orleans, reflecting on cultural duality and the journey through academic challenges after becoming a teen parent. The conversation highlights the emotional toll of seeking validation both in relationships and academic settings, emphasizing the importance of internal acceptance over external approval.