Kamshuka | Tales from the 2.9, Vol. 2 #22

One concept Kamshuka teaches people in her quest to help them find their inner warriors is that of the “Fullest Life.” After surviving the Ugandan Civil War as a child and coming to Canada at 14, Kamshuka appreciates making the most of each day in a way that most people never come close to.

While I’m profusely grateful that I didn’t need to overcome any human rights violations to get here, I feel like my Fullest Life is growing before my eyes. I’m writing pieces that positively impact the world around me. I’ve gotten to start showing our youth that there’re other ways to succeed in a world where it can feel like employment opportunities are in a chokehold. I hope to show my sons how to live their best lives possible not only through my words but through clear actions that show what’s possible when your passions align with your efforts.

If you feel stuck in your life, let Kamshuka set you straight—she’s a survivor, and there won’t be any stopping her anytime soon!

I’ll see you tomorrow with another Tale from the 2.9!

Until then,

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What does being Black Canadian mean to you?

Being Black Canadian means I get to celebrate my diversity with no apologies. As a mixed black Canadian (African & Anglo-Indian), every day that I get to share my diversity with my fellow citizens and children just reminds me of how proud I am to be Black Canadian.

What’s your experience been like as a Black Canadian and how has it shaped who you are today?

I came to Canada when I was only 14 years old and spent my high school years trying to figure where I stood more. As I got older I began to embrace being black soon after I realised how many Black women and men of influence I was surrounded by. When I was 23 years old and enjoying my new career as a professional photographer, this was the only time I felt judged for my skin tone and gender. I was shooting weddings in a male-dominated profession, and remember thinking I would work hard despite this obvious awkward entrance into almost every room and let my work speak for itself. Thankfully as the years went by, my work ethic and art spoke for itself and enabled me to reach so many new heights locally in Toronto and also overseas.

What’s something you’d like to see more of within the Black Canadian community?

I would like to see more genuine heart attractions within our community. It’s a given we are strong and fierce. But when our hearts get involved, support in presence or funds won’t be a task. I want to see genuine love and heartfelt celebration throughout the year for the students and teachers alike no matter how high or low someone is. Don’t hold back celebration even if it makes you feel certain ways; examine why you feel that way and celebrate anyway.

What do you think those outside the Black Canadian community need to better understand in order to coexist with Black Canadians in a respectful and considerate way?

I believe that we as people need to be much more understanding of each other’s journeys and stories even when we don’t understand them completely. Those outside the Black Canadian community can learn a lot from the stories of where we have come from, even before some of us were taken. When you exercise empathy and compassion, you can be respectful and understand of cultures and creeds we know nothing about.

If your life could teach but one thing to your fellow Black Canadians, what would it be?

If my life could teach one thing to Black Canadians I hope they understand the feeling of conquering and overcoming fear after spending years living in fear. You realise that life lived to the fullest is the best medicine to continue conquering fears. That fear is fuel for a better life and if we live our lives like we are Warriors we will overcome every obstacle in our way and leave a legacy for our children to be better equipped to as the next generation of Black Canadian Leaders.

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About Kamshuka

Kamshuka is the Author of “Becoming Warrior”, an International Speaker and a Life Coach. Creator of the #IAMWarrior Workshops & known as the Warrior Queen who survived the Ugandan Civil War as a child.

Her mission is to awaken the souls she meets around the world by bringing out their inner warrior. Elevating, empowering and igniting a fire within each person. She believes that our Greatest Life is already within us, awaiting the moment we tap into that well and live our Fullest Life.

Website | Video Intro | “Becoming Warrior” Video Trailer | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook