Bozoma Saint John: Make Your Brand The Best In the World with Lewis Howes

Bicultural Journey

Bozoma Saint John shares her bicultural journey, highlighting the impact of living between two cultures on her identity. She recounts her family's move from Ghana to the US, then to Kenya, and back to Ghana before settling in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This diverse upbringing shaped her worldview and character, as she navigated different cultural landscapes.

I usually say I'm bicultural, that I'm Ghanaian. But I grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Bozoma reflects on how these experiences crystallized her character and sharpened her identity during her formative years 1.

   

Navigating Ignorance

Navigating ignorance and overcoming misconceptions were significant challenges for Bozoma during her time in Colorado Springs. She encountered well-meaning but uneducated individuals who lacked a global perspective, which was surprising given her diverse background. Despite the racial tensions and limited exposure of her peers, she took on the role of educating them about her culture and experiences.

There was a lot of involuntary teaching that I had to do and making sure that my classmates understood why I had a sense of pride.

Bozoma emphasizes the importance of exposure and understanding in overcoming ignorance 2.

   

Teaching Hip Hop

Bozoma utilized hip hop as a powerful tool to teach and understand cultural dynamics. She initiated a class on hip hop during her junior year, which evolved into a platform for dynamic conversations about culture and politics. This experience highlighted the depth of hip hop beyond its lyrics, focusing on its role as a voice for the unheard.

It became more than just about the lyrics. It became the dialogue around what was happening in the country.

Bozoma reflects on the transformative nature of this experience, both for herself and her students 3.