Indian/Pakistani/Afghan | Dutch
Being mixed-race is an experience that has shaped me in ways I never imagined. My heritage is a blend of Indian, Pakistani, Dutch, and a touch of British, Turkic, and Afghan influences. My parents met through an arranged marriage, bringing together the East and West in a way that’s given me a unique, open-minded perspective on life.
I feel deeply connected to both sides of my identity. Sometimes I feel entirely European; other times, Punjabi or even a bit Afghani. But growing up, it wasn’t always easy. No matter where I was, it often felt like I could only be 50% myself. People didn’t fully accept me as one of them whether in Europe, India, or even among mixed communities. Interestingly, I’ve felt more embraced in places like Dubai or Pakistan than in either Europe or India.
Despite the challenges, I’ve learned to connect with my heritage through religious traditions, festive celebrations, and even my wardrobe, alternating between European and Asian attire. Over time, I’ve accepted that I may never be seen as fully Indian, even though my mother’s culture played such a big role in how I was raised. Today, I don’t seek validation from others—I know who I am, and that’s enough.
There’s strength in being mixed-race. It gives us the perspective to approach situations with openness and understanding. My message to others is simple: embrace everything that makes you unique. Celebrate your cultures, because they are a reflection of you, and that’s where your beauty lies. Don’t try to fit in. Instead, find connections with people who resonate with parts of you, and be proud of your individuality. It’s what makes people fall in love with who you are.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my identity is the open-mindedness it has given me. It’s fueled my passion for travel, and I’m on a mission to visit every country in the world to learn about their cultures. So far, I’ve explored more than 60 countries as a full-time nomadic traveler.
What I’ve discovered is that no matter your heritage or passport, the world is full of places to explore and people to connect with. It hasn’t always been an easy journey, but I’ve found strength in my identity and purpose in sharing my story. Being mixed-race isn’t just a label—it’s a lens through which I see the world, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.