True Story London Podcast 20 - Growing up a Black Nerd w/Heleana Blackwell
Jul 23, 2024
Heleana Blackwell, a stand-up comedian and strategist, shares her unique journey growing up as a black nerd in a conservative British town. She candidly discusses the challenges of facing racism and exclusion while navigating social hierarchies. Heleana reflects on her childhood resilience, the significance of community support, and how humor became her coping mechanism. Her experiences illuminate the complexities of identity and ambition, culminating in her announcement of a solo comedy show celebrating individuality and empowerment.
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How Nerdiness Became My Secret Weapon to Escape Small-Town Exclusion
Heleana Blackwell transformed her outsider status growing up as one of two black families in a conservative, mostly white small town by embracing her identity as a nerd. She strategically "nerded her way out" by using her knowledge as currency, exchanging homework help for social protection.
Facing physical and social threats, she innovatively set traps and later traded academic answers to deter bullies, illustrating adaptability and resilience. Her vision was to escape to London, inspired by seeing diverse and happy people in a magazine, sparking a fierce determination to study her way out.
This story highlights how knowledge and strategic thinking can be powerful tools for overcoming social exclusion and building a better life.
Black Nerd in Small Town
- Heleana was one of only two black families in a small, conservative UK town, facing exclusion and hostility.
- She used nerdiness and strategic thinking to navigate bullying and social isolation from a young age.
Isolation Breeds Disconnection
- Growing up isolated in a conservative town triggers loneliness and disconnection.
- This disconnection creates challenges in giving and receiving connection later in life.
