Three Identities, One Life: An Indian-Tanzanian-Seychellois Autobiography

By Henry Naiken

Three Identities, One Life: An Indian-Tanzanian-Seychellois Autobiography

 

In the vast tapestry of human existence, some of us are lucky enough to be born into a kaleidoscope of cultures, each thread adding its unique hue to the fabric of our lives. My journey, as captured in this autobiography titled "Three Identities, One Life," is a testament to the intricate interplay between my Indian, Tanzanian, and Seychellois heritage.

 

Born in Tanzania, I was blessed with a rich tapestry of ancestral roots. The blood that runs through my veins carries the essence of my Indian heritage from my grandfather's side and the vibrant spirit of Seychelles from my parents' birthplace. Growing up in a middle- class family, we faced our fair share of struggles as my parents worked tirelessly to provide for their six children - four boys and two girls.

 

As I embarked on my path through life, I quickly realised that academic pursuits were not my primary strength. While I may not have been an academy student in the traditional sense, I discovered that my true education lay in embracing and understanding the diverse cultures that flowed within me. This autobiography is a heartfelt endeavour to share the triumphs, trials, and reflections that have shaped me into the person I am today.

 

It is an exploration of identity - how multiple cultural identities can coexist harmoniously within one individual. Through vivid anecdotes and introspective moments, I aim to unravel the complexities of reconciling three distinct cultural backgrounds while forging a unique path forward.

 

With each page turned, you will journey alongside me as I navigate through childhood memories infused with vibrant colours and scents from Tanzania's bustling streets. You will witness the influence of my Indian lineage on family traditions and values that have been passed down through generations. And finally, you will be transported to Seychelles - a paradise where crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes form the backdrop of my upbringing.

 

Join me as I delve into the joys, challenges, and celebrations that come with embracing multiple identities. "Three Identities, One Life" is not just a personal narrative; it is a testament to the beauty of multiculturalism and a reminder that our diverse backgrounds can enrich our lives in ways we never imagined.

 

So, come along on this remarkable journey - one that intertwines the Indian, Tanzanian, and Seychellois threads of my existence. Let us unravel the tapestry of my life together, one story at a time.

 

Check it out!

• Language: English
• Publisher: HB HOLISTICS
• Release date: Nov 4, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223365761

Henry Naiken

Dr. Henry B. Naiken’s is an NLP and DHE Practitioner and under the license of Dr. Richard Bandler the innovator of NLP. He utilizes NLP principles and attitudes in his work as a life coach, trainer and Business consultant. As well as having a degree in Metaphysics, his greatest assets are his brilliant ability to understand people, his intuitive skills in creating change with ease and his obvious passionate and exciting training style. Dr. Naiken’s sharp sense of humor, his amazing ability to teach complex subjects in simple ways and his powerful inspirational commitment to teaching and training are some of the reasons why he is regarded, by many in the field, as one of the best NLP trainers in the Indian Ocean. Dr. Naiken has spoken before packed auditoriums at major Universities in India, At Health Conventions in the Channel Islands in UK, and at Sports Clubs in Mauritius and South Africa. His mastery in the fields of non-verbal communication and influence make him one of the most knowledgeable, exciting, and effective presenters in the region. Dr. Naiken was also a Vice-presidential candidate in the Presidential Election for 2006 and 2011 in Seychelles

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Dedication:

To my beloved wife, Beryl Naiken, whose unwavering love and support have been the foundation of my strength and inspiration throughout this incredible journey. Your presence in my life has brought immeasurable joy and fulfilment, and I am forever grateful for the love and warmth you have bestowed upon me.

To my stepson, Nathan Julie, you are a true blessing in my life. Your kindness, resilience, and boundless curiosity have enriched our family in ways I could have never imagined. I am honoured to be a part of your life's journey and witness the remarkable person you are becoming.

And lastly, to my beloved son, Liam, you are the light of our life. Your innocent wonder and boundless energy remind me of the beauty in life's simplest moments. Watching you grow and learn fills my heart with joy, and I am blessed to be your father.

This book is dedicated to each of you, my beloved family, for being the driving force behind every word penned. Your love has given me strength, your presence has brought me comfort, and your unwavering support has made this endeavour possible. As we continue to journey through life together, I hold you all close in my heart, forever grateful for the love and joy you have brought into my world.

With all my love,

Tom,

Papa,

Love.

Introduction: Journeys of Three Identities - Embracing the Tapestry   of Indian-Tanzanian-Seychellois Heritage

I am An African By Birth... An Indian By Blood... And A Seychellois By Choice!

In the vast tapestry of human existence, some of us are lucky enough to be born into a kaleidoscope of cultures, each thread adding its unique hue to the fabric of our lives. My journey, as captured in this autobiography titled Three Identities, One Life, is a testament to the intricate interplay between my Indian, Tanzanian, and Seychellois heritage.

Born in Tanzania, I was blessed with a rich tapestry of ancestral roots. The blood that runs through my veins carries the essence of my Indian heritage from my grandfather's side and the vibrant spirit of Seychelles from my parents' birthplace. Growing up in a middle-class family, we faced our fair share of struggles as my parents worked tirelessly to provide for their six children - four boys and two girls.

As I embarked on my path through life, I quickly realised that academic pursuits were not my primary strength. While I may not have been an academy student in the traditional sense, I discovered that my true education lay in embracing and understanding the diverse cultures that flowed within me. This autobiography is a heartfelt endeavour to share the triumphs, trials, and reflections that have shaped me into the person I am today.

It is an exploration of identity - how multiple cultural identities can coexist harmoniously within one individual. Through vivid anecdotes and introspective moments, I aim to unravel the complexities of reconciling three distinct cultural backgrounds while forging a unique path forward.

With each page turned, you will journey alongside me as I navigate through childhood memories infused with vibrant colours and scents from Tanzania's bustling streets. You will witness the influence of my Indian lineage on family traditions and values that have been passed down through generations. And finally, you will be transported to Seychelles - a paradise where crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes form the backdrop of my upbringing.

Join me as I delve into the joys, challenges, and celebrations that come with embracing multiple identities. Three Identities, One Life is not just a personal narrative; it is a testament to the beauty of multiculturalism and a reminder that our diverse backgrounds can enrich our lives in ways we never imagined.

So, come along on this remarkable journey - one that intertwines the Indian, Tanzanian, and Seychellois threads of my existence. Let us unravel the tapestry of my life together, one story at a time.

Dr. Henry Naiken.Msc.D

Chapter 1: Roots of Love - A Tale of My Parents' Legacy

We Never Know The Love Of A Parent Till We Become One Ourself!

In the tapestry of my life, the most foundational threads are woven by the stories of my parents – two individuals whose paths converged in Seychelles, giving rise to the journey that would ultimately shape my existence.

My father's (Virgile Naiken) roots can be traced back to India, where his father hailed from the westernmost state of Gujarat. Driven by ambition and the pursuit of a better life, my grandfather embarked on a voyage to Seychelles, drawn by the allure of opportunities presented by a merchant there. Destiny, however, had other plans for him as, upon the passing of his employer, he took over the shop and fatefully encountered my grandmother, who had become an employee in his newly acquired establishment. Love blossomed between them, and they soon became parents to two sons, my father and my uncle (James Naiken), both born in the enchanting islands of Seychelles.

As life unfolded, my father and uncle ventured to Tanzania to pursue education and work opportunities. The promise of knowledge and career prospects drew them to this vibrant land, and they carved their paths in pursuit of brighter horizons.

Meanwhile, on the other side of my lineage, my mother (Ivy Naiken - nee Antat) graced the Seychellois shores with her presence. Gifted with a talent for seamstress work, she weaved threads of creativity and skill into beautiful garments. Her craft not only added to our family's livelihood but also garnered admiration for her exquisite craftsmanship.

The hands of destiny orchestrated the meeting of my parents through a picture of my mother, shared by a friend. Eager to know the woman who captured his heart through mere pixels, my father arranged for her to travel to Tanzania, where their hearts intertwined, and they decided to embark on the journey of marriage together.

With time, my father's career flourished, and he embraced his passion as an electrical engineer, dedicating 23 years of his life to the growth and development of Tanzania. Our family grew to include six siblings, four sons, and two daughters, each of us a testament to the love that blossomed between my parents.

As a father, my dad was firm, bordering on strict. Yet, as I reflect on his parenting approach, I cannot help but see echoes of his own upbringing, where discipline and control were paramount. Such was the legacy of parents from their generation, believing that replicating the principles they had experienced would forge strong individuals in their offspring.

In stark contrast, my mother exuded a gentle aura, embracing us with a sense of tenderness. While she held us accountable for our actions, she stood as a compassionate shield when the world seemed overwhelming.

Her loving nature balanced the sternness of my father's approach, and her presence brought