#TBH Identity Unpacked

Being an autistic woman in a non-autistic world

Have you ever felt alone, confused, and apologetic because you know something about yourself that is wired differently from other people? Mathilde did. In this episode, Mathilde shares her diagnosis journey, her perspective, experience as an autistic woman interacting with the world and herself. She points out that not all autism looks the same, and the representation of autism should be more diverse and inclusive, more than the ones present in the mass media. She encourages people to be more empathetic, stepping into other’s shoes to understand their struggle and joy. At the end of the day, “all we ultimately have is each other.”

Being a Latin American as a teacher in the US

In this episode, Abby shares her experience as a Latin American teacher in the US. When expressing her goals and beliefs for education, she takes an activist stance. She talks about her experiences of interacting with her students from immigrant backgrounds, her reflections on society and her position as a teacher. She believes, as a teacher, who is also a facilitator/mediator, it’s critical to be skillful and professional in what one is doing; also, one needs to find the balance when teaching the children. The purpose of education is not to make students like their teachers but to help them become their better selves. Additionally, Abby discussed the significance of language as the “anchor” or “key” that opens the door to your heritage and culture's archive. She ends by encouraging people to start having intergenerational conversations. Even though the conversations may be uncomfortable and require extra work. It can help you clarify your identity and values and also lead to greater mutual understanding.

Being a married young woman travelling around the world

Life can be hard, but when it comes to relationships, it can be double the trouble or triple the strength. In this episode, Becky shares her experiences and mindset about relationships as a married woman, especially when this relationship is under the test of distance and uncertainty brought by travelling. She points out that since two people come into the relationship as two separate and different individuals, it’s important to recognise and respect their individualities and boundaries. Although being different can cause some difficulties, how to have good communication with one another is a crucial question that two people need to work on together. Becky also reminds us that, the decisions we make might influence our lives, but nothing is permanent. It’s okay and possible to take a step back, re-evaluate the situation, and then try again. In the end, she encourages people who are scared to enter a relationship to know that the other person might be as scared as you are! It could be a good start to build a “teamwork” relationship and help each become a better self.

The person who is trapped in a successful past

Have you ever felt lost when you looked into the mirror and wondered “Who am I?” Knowing yourself, reflecting on the past and seeing how you carry the past into the future demands honesty with oneself. Sometimes, the past may be a lesson, a stepping stone, or a trap that hinders you from going forward. In episode 10, Pin opens up about her thoughts and journey of discovering the “trap” and struggling with the self she displays to herself and others. It is not easy to reveal one’s struggle especially when it is still an ongoing process, but it is also a brave move to take. Pin encourages people not to forget to have honest, non-sugarcoated conversations with themselves from time to time. It’s okay to struggle and feel lost. It’s okay to be not perfect. It’s okay to still be on the journey. Be happy and keep on walking.

Being a Dutch and Portuguese studying and living in Europe

How and what people present themselves is greatly influenced by how they’re brought up and the environment around them. In episode 9, Bibi shares her thoughts and observations as a person who has double nationality which enables her to experience a different approach to the way of life. Also, how she encounters new and different cultures, and people from that identity position. Bibi experiences that, while continually moving brings challenges, it allows her to discover the essence of "home" and "friendship" when travelling. And it is definitely worthwhile.