At just 18 years old, Nyarai’s journey from the bustling streets of London to the quiet countryside of Carmarthenshire reflects a broader narrative of young people grappling with identity in predominantly white areas. Moving when she was just 13, Nyarai quickly felt the stark differences between her new home and her previous urban environment, prompting a search for connection and understanding among peers.
Nyarai became involved with Llwy Gariad, a group at SpanArts in Pembrokeshire dedicated to empowering young people to express their identities. Project coordinator Molara Anwen emphasized the need for anti-racism initiatives in rural areas, arguing that these communities often require support just as much as urban settings.
“It’s a misconception that anti-racism work should be limited to cities; rural areas also face significant challenges,” Molara noted.
The Welsh government recently updated its anti-racist action plan, building on insights from a 2022 report. However, the 2021 census revealed that only 0.9% of Pembrokeshire residents identified as mixed or multiple ethnicities, highlighting the need for more inclusive programs in these less diverse regions.
Nyarai recalls her move as daunting; leaving behind a city where diversity was the norm was challenging. She noted feelings of isolation, stating that she often felt out of place among her classmates. Terms like “exotic” were unfamiliar and underscored her sense of difference.
“Being at school made me realize how distinct I am, but I learned that being different can be positive,” she reflected.
Nyarai’s involvement with We Move, a youth-led initiative supporting black children and young people, has been transformative. The program, funded by Children in Need, offers various activities and fosters connections among participants who share similar experiences.
Indigo Young, another participant from Whitland, echoed Nyarai’s sentiments about the importance of community. She highlighted how vital it is for young people to discuss experiences of racism within safe spaces where they feel understood.
“Talking with peers who look like you is crucial for validating your experiences,” Indigo shared.
Both Indigo and Nyarai are set to join a UK-wide choir event for Children in Need on November 15, showcasing their talents while reinforcing their sense of belonging within these communities.
As these young individuals continue to navigate their identities in rural Wales, they advocate for awareness and respect within their communities. Their stories reflect not only personal growth but also an urgent call for broader societal recognition of diversity’s importance—even in less diverse areas.
The upcoming performance on BBC One serves as a reminder that voices from all backgrounds deserve to be heard and celebrated.
Trump’s Tariff Plans: A Day-One Agenda Against Drug and Human Trafficking In a bold move to combat drug and human smuggling, President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to impose significant tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China immediately after his inauguration on January 20.
Government Unveils “Get Britain Working” Initiative to Combat Unemployment In a bid to rejuvenate the UK job market, the government has introduced its ambitious “Get Britain Working” initiative, promising extensive reforms aimed at reducing the benefits bill and increasing employment.