Embracing My Mixed Heritage: A Journey of Empathy and Privilege

Growing up in a multicultural environment has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. As someone who is proudly mixed-race—French, Senegalese, and Algerian—I’ve had the unique experience of being shaped by diverse cultures and worldviews. My heritage, along with the experiences I’ve gained through living in different countries, has given me a deep perspective on the world but have also allowed me to navigate life with a broader understanding of others.

Me as a child wearing traditional Senegalese clothes and sat on knitted blanket made by my Algerian great-grandmother.

The Power of Empathy Through Multiculturalism

My mixed identity allows me to see the world through multiple lenses. I don’t just belong to one culture—I belong to several, each with its own values, customs, and perspectives. It took time for me to see part of myself as a strength. Now I understand that this diversity in my personal experience has provided me with an invaluable ability to empathize with people from various walks of life, regardless of their background. Empathy, born from understanding what it means to straddle multiple cultural identities, helps me build genuine connections and relationships that transcend borders.

Being multicultural is not just about the cultures you are born into, but about being open to and understanding the richness of the cultures around you. My own journey of empathy led me to live in countries such as Germany, Colombia, and Japan, where I immersed myself in local traditions and worldviews. I attended an international high school and worked in international workplaces, each experience broadening my understanding of the world.

Empathy is a resource anyone can develop with an open heart and mind.

A Globalized World: The Value of Multicultural Perspectives

In a globalized world, the ability to embrace diverse cultures and perspectives is more essential than ever. The world is more interconnected, and understanding the different cultures that shape our global landscape is a key to success, whether in business, diplomacy, or personal connections. Having a multicultural mindset equips me to approach challenges with a broader toolkit. This mindset is not just a personal asset but a professional one as well, particularly in an era where international collaboration and cross-cultural communication are vital.

Rather than seeing cultural differences as barriers, I’ve come to view them as opportunities for growth, creativity and innovation. I believe that this is a resource that can be harnessed by individuals and communities alike to foster not only success but deeper understanding and unity.

Cultivating a Multicultural Mindset: A Universal Opportunity

I firmly believe that anyone can cultivate a multicultural mindset, regardless of their origins. The key lies in a willingness to learn and an openness to the world. The skills of empathy, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication are not inherent traits—they are developed through a conscious effort to understand others and embrace differences.

In fact, this is something I’ve observed in my interactions with people from all walks of life. While the French identity is often associated with strong national pride, I’ve also found that France, with its diverse population, holds a great potential for embracing multiculturalism as a strength. My conversations with diplomats like Ambassador Sylvain ITTE have underscored the importance of viewing multiculturalism not as a challenge but as an opportunity.

Dinner organized by the Rotary Club with the Ambassador Sylvain Itte

Celebrating Diversity as a Strength

The globalized world calls for more empathy, creativity, and resilience—qualities that can be nurtured through multiculturalism. By embracing our diverse backgrounds, we can build a society that is more inclusive, compassionate, and innovative. Multiculturalism is not something to fear or manage; it is a resource that can enrich our communities, workplaces, and personal lives.

As I continue to navigate my journey, I see the value in embracing diversity, in all its forms, is not just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do. Whether in France or beyond, our mixed identities are a privilege that can help us shape a future built on understanding, respect, and progress.