Kali Williams' Story
I was surprised to learn that both Grenada and Nova Scotia were colonized by the French and British, who fought over the land for quite some time, with lasting cultural remnants of both. This includes, but isn't limited to, their architecture, language/terminology, and history with the Transatlantic Slave Trade, which were all remarkably similar. Here, African Nova Scotians use the term Cornrows while our Grenadian brothers and sisters use the term canerows, noting the differences in the goods our ancestors were forced to farm. We knew many of the songs the Grenadian students shared with us, and even had very similar cultural dishes. Grenada's national dish, "Oil Down," is highly similar to African Nova Scotians' "Boiled Dinner". I found many more similarities than differences, which allowed me to adapt quickly and successfully. One of the significant differences is that the passionate carnivals and other events used to be. Celebrate Grenada's African ancestors. I find that for myself, as an African Nova Scotian, it can be tough to see our culture expressed and celebrated throughout the streets in our city, province or country. We are often ignored and dismissed, being in a predominantly white society that has oppressed us since our ancestors were invited here. Being in Grenada, it seemed to be like what I imagine Nova Scotia would look like if all 52 historic African Nova Scotian communities were established side by side. One of the teachers at TAMCC reminded me so much of my Grandfather; it was just as if he had accompanied us.
Participating in this opportunity has changed me drastically as a professional through providing me with the opportunity to expand on my cross-cultural skills, my leadership skills have also grown exceedingly as I was the only student in the group whom had experience participating in an NSCC International Learning Experience, specifically CELPS '24 my peers truly looked to me for my guidance which I was eager to offer and they were able to rely on my prior knowledge. Throughout this opportunity, I was also provided the opportunity to expand upon my public speaking/presentation skills. Many Grenadians had questions about African Nova Scotian history, which I've studied intensely independently over the last 7 years. This learning experience additionally allowed me to further my interpersonal communication skills. While we did lots of in-person discussions, we still relied heavily on digital communication such as PowerPoint, email, WhatsApp and phone calls. Walking away from this experience, I feel more confident in myself and my identity as an African Nova Scotian. How this opportunity has changed me personally is almost too great to be expressed through words. This program provided an incredibly refreshing and much-needed authentic cultural exchange. I was able to connect with my NSCC peers and form friendships that we've brought back home. In Grenada, I now have a large group of friends excitedly awaiting our return, which goes hand in hand with lifelong collegiate connections. As an Early Childhood Education student, my thought process and imagination have been ignited with new thoughts/ ideas, accompanied by being a spoken word artist and blooming photographer. Grenada has marked the beginning of a new chapter in my artistic creations. I've found a second home in Grenada; they even have a Halifax Harbour!