When Belonging Is Hard: Life in the African Diaspora

By Emelia Makor

Belonging is one of those things you don’t think about until it feels missing.

Read a perspective here Belonging: An immigrant’s view

For many of us in the African diaspora, life is lived between worlds. We carry our culture, language, values, and history with us—while learning how to navigate new systems, expectations, and environments. At times, that balance can feel heavy.

You may feel proud of where you come from, yet unsure of where you fully fit.
You may feel welcomed in some spaces, but invisible in others.
You may feel strong, capable, and accomplished—yet still searching for community.

These experiences are more common than we often admit.

Living Between Cultures

Being part of the African diaspora often means learning to adapt early. We learn how to speak differently depending on where we are. We learn when to explain ourselves and when to stay quiet. We learn how to succeed in systems that were not built with us in mind.

Over time, this constant adjustment can create distance—from others, and sometimes from us and our communities.

What do we do once we start creating or sensing that distance? Let’s band together. Let’s cling to one another for strength and hope like ants do in a colony on the African savannah. Sending a loud , strong and clear signal:

A signal that connection matters.
A signal that community matters.
A signal that belonging matters.

Why This Matters to ADI

The African Diaspora Initiative exists because these experiences are real.

We believe that people should not have to choose between success and belonging, or between progress and culture. Community spaces matter. Shared understanding matters. Being seen and heard matters.

ADI is building space for those conversations—for reflection, growth, and connection across generations.

This Is an Ongoing Conversation

This blog is not about having all the answers. It is about naming shared experiences and opening space for dialogue.

If you have ever felt caught between cultures…
If you have ever searched for community…
If you have ever wondered where you truly belong…

You are not alone.

Join the Conversation

We invite you to share your story, reflect with us, and stay connected as we continue this work together.

Join here Partner with ADI – African Diaspora Initiative

Belonging does not happen by accident.
It is built—together.