My family’s journey to the United States was a divided one. While paying off in the long run, leaving my family and migrating from Nigeria with just my older brother was a terrifying experience. We moved out of a need for adequate education, and began living with extended family in Texas. While I am grateful, I cannot pretend the transition was easy. I struggled greatly with social anxiety and fought the pressures of assimilation at a young age, but undoubtedly what got me through it was a reminder of my culture. My Nigerian heritage became my sword and shield. My reminder of my families values of perseverance, and their ultimate belief in karmic nature helped deflect the culture shock and micro-agressions I faced during my first weeks in suburban Texas. As time went on, I used it as a mode of education for both my fellow peers and teachers. Being able to share personal anecdotes and facts through presentations or writing assignments, I was able to provide perspective and change western-centered ideas about the African Continent. These nuanced and unexpected responses to my assignments showed ingenuity, effectively boosting my grades. When I began Speech and Debate, my heritage was always my inspiration, prompting me to write a speech detailing the realities of juggling two cultures as an Immigrant. This speech, which contained stanzas of the Nigerian Pledge, then went on to win multiple tournaments and final at both State and National levels. My heritage provided me with an unshakable foundation, one that would not let me doubt myself, even in the whirlpool of cross-continental change. Sharing my culture, I was able to change minds and perspectives, and opened my eyes to the world of advocacy I now wish to pursue.