Growing up as a Free Methodist missionary kid in the Republic of South Africa between 1975 and 1988 was an experience that shaped my worldview in profound ways. My childhood unfolded during the height of apartheid, a period defined by systemic racial segregation and social injustice. While my upbringing came with unique privileges and opportunities, it also exposed me to the harsh realities of inequality, instilling in me a deep sense of purpose and a lifelong commitment to education and inclusion.

A Childhood Defined by Apartheid

My family’s mission work granted us unusual freedoms in a country where movement and association were strictly regulated. My parents’ special passes allowed them to travel across regions designated for specific racial or language groups. This freedom exposed me to a variety of cultures, languages, and perspectives that many South Africans never had the chance to experience.

As a child, I had friends from vastly different backgrounds: white English-speaking peers and African friends who spoke languages like Zulu and Sotho. While I cherished these relationships, the apartheid system made it impossible for my friend groups to interact with each other. The separation of races was enforced by law, and even friendships across these divides were rare and fraught with challenges. Despite the barriers, these early relationships taught me to appreciate cultural differences and navigate diverse social contexts. I learned cultural fluency instinctively, adapting my behavior and language to connect with people from various walks of life. This skill, though developed out of necessity, became one of the most valuable tools I carried into adulthood.

Returning to America: A Cultural Collision

When I finished high school in South Africa, my family returned to the United States, and I began my freshman year of college. The transition was far from seamless. I quickly realized how disconnected I was from American culture. My South African accent, unfamiliarity with American sports, and lack of knowledge about popular TV shows and movies set me apart from my peers. The teasing I endured, though often good-natured, left me feeling alienated. Perhaps the most embarrassing moment was declining an invitation to join an intramural basketball team simply because I had no idea how to play the game. Their assumption was that, because I was so tall, I must have played basketball in high school.

Frustration and resentment soon took hold. I was angry with my parents for what I saw as their decision to impose their calling from God on me. I was equally angry with God for calling them in the first place. I longed for what I imagined to be a “normal” American childhood—a life unmarked by the complexities of cross-cultural living.

Finding Purpose in Experience

Over time, my perspective began to shift. A pivotal moment came when a college professor pointed out the academic advantages I had gained through my South African education. While apartheid was an unjust system, the schooling I received as a white student was academically rigorous, unlike the underfunded and poorly resourced education available to most Black South Africans, many of whom did not progress beyond elementary school. Recognizing this privilege was both humbling and eye-opening. It forced me to reevaluate my experiences and acknowledge the ways they had shaped me for the better.

As I reflected further, I began to see the broader benefits of my upbringing. My ability to navigate cultural differences and engage with people from diverse backgrounds was a direct result of my childhood experiences. While many of my American peers struggled to connect with those who were different from them, I found joy and excitement in building relationships across cultural divides. This realization transformed my resentment into gratitude and gave me a renewed sense of purpose.

Lessons from Apartheid

One of the most enduring lessons from my time in South Africa was the profound impact of social inequity, particularly the role of education in perpetuating or dismantling inequality. Under apartheid, education systems were designed to entrench racial divisions and limit opportunities for the majority of the population. Witnessing this injustice firsthand instilled in me a passion for education as a tool for social change.

This passion has guided my professional journey. I began my career in private higher education but soon recognized the financial barriers it created for underrepresented and historically excluded populations. This realization prompted me to transition into the public sector, and more recently, to work in the community college system. Community colleges are uniquely positioned to serve those who have been marginalized, providing accessible pathways to education and upward mobility. Every day, I am reminded of the transformative power of education and the critical role it plays in addressing social inequities.

Embracing a Mission of Inclusion

My upbringing also instilled in me a deep appreciation for diversity and inclusion. The stark divisions of apartheid highlighted the dangers of judgment, hatred, and division. In contrast, my experiences taught me the beauty of connection and understanding. Today, as I encounter individuals from different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives, I am reminded of the friendships I formed in South Africa and the lessons they taught me about empathy and respect.

In many ways, the challenges we face in the United States today echo the struggles I witnessed during apartheid. Issues of racial injustice, social division, and inequity remain pervasive. These parallels fuel my determination to work toward a more inclusive and equitable society. Whether through my professional role in higher education or personal interactions, I strive to create spaces where people feel valued and understood.

Gratitude for the Journey

Looking back, I am profoundly grateful for the experiences that shaped me. Growing up during apartheid was far from easy, but it provided me with a unique perspective and a strong foundation for the work I do today. It taught me to value education, embrace diversity, and approach challenges with resilience and compassion.

While I once resented my parents’ calling, I now see the wisdom in their decision. Their commitment to their faith and mission not only impacted the lives of those they served but also profoundly influenced my own path. The lessons I learned as a missionary kid continue to guide me, reminding me of the importance of empathy, connection, and a commitment to justice.

Moving Forward

As I reflect on my journey, I am inspired to continue building bridges across divides, advocating for education, and working toward a more inclusive future. The challenges I faced as a missionary kid were not without purpose; they prepared me to navigate a complex and ever-changing world with humility and determination.  Every day, I am reminded of the words often attributed to Nelson Mandela: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” My experiences in South Africa and beyond have shown me the truth of this statement. They have also shown me that change begins with understanding—understanding ourselves, each other, and the systems that shape our lives. For these lessons, and for the journey that taught them to me, I am deeply grateful.