This person was born in Democratic Republic of Congo but was raised in Atlanta, GA.

What are some challenges that you face as a “minority” in the U.S?

The toughest thing about being a minority is constantly feeling like you don’t belong. Your family life and social life is so different. You don’t know where you stand in certain situations and sometimes the issues that Americans fight for, you don’t know whether it’s your fight or not.

What can we do to work on those issues?

I don’t know, honestly. I feel that there are many issues in America that need to be handled first. One of the things that would really help is a reformed immigration system.

If there is one thing that you can change in the world right now, what would it be and why?

I would like to change the world’s problem with racism. Being affected by racism, I really felt as though it held me back and kept me from being confident in my abilities. Once we get rid of this issue in the world, I feel as though people will be more willing to negotiate and accept the change that time has come with.

What are some good and bad things about the South?

I  feel scared in the South. Walking out with my family, I feel like everyone is judging me. People constantly watch me and make snarky remarks about how my family isn’t going to buy anything and they make us feel excluded. I can’t think of one good thing about living in the South. It pains me to say such a thing, but whenever I’m here, I don’t feel like I belong or have an identity. I feel like for the South I am just another potential “terrorist” — “stealing” the jobs of their people.

What are some good and bad things about the North?

Living in the North, you can be different. You get to express yourself in whatever manner you please. People mind their own business. Everyone kind of hates everyone and which in a weird way makes me feel like I belong. The negatives of living in the North is how socially active everyone wants to be and sometimes you feel like its not everyone’s fight to fight. Sometimes, you need to fight for your people and some won’t understand the pain — just the injustice which can be a tad bit frustrating.

If you could change anyone/anything in the world who would it be and why?

I don’t want to change any group or individual because I don’t want someone changing my history, culture and people. I feel as though it isn’t an individual group that is the problem, but the way groups and individuals are taught to interact with people and other races.

What is one word that you hate people use today?

“Turban Head/Towel Head” because it’s mocking and disrespecting a culture.

 What song describes your life?

It’s a song written by an Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, “Ekla Cholo Re.” It’s a story of a woman being independent and powerful and going through the journey of life alone, yet still succeeding.

Most important lesson you’ve learned so far?

Family is all you’ve got in this world that really is yours. They will never give up on you. Through everything in life, they will be proud of your smallest victories, while the world still doesn’t recognize your worth.

The most important question, what makes you happy?

Drinking tea with my mom and gossiping about how amazing we are.