I’m From

Sisonke Msimang

Note from the editor

Solid Connections is a program run by Centre for Stories which opens up space for non-Indigenous people, particularly those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, to connect with First Nations people, cultures, and stories. These workshops encourage participants to explore both where they have been and where they have arrived, exploring their own stories of heritage, family and identity whilst also connecting with and honouring those shared by First Nations people.  

As part of the Solid Connection workshops, participants create a poem reflecting on their own personal histories and their connection to their own culture. Sisonke Msimang was the facilitator of these workshops, and her "I'm From" poem was created as an example to be used in this program. 

Airevbowan Olaghere was one of the participants in these workshops. Read his response poems I'm From and Here I Am on his connection and respect to Noongar Boodjar.

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I'm from corn row braids and hopscotch 

skinny legs playing until its almost dark 

I’m from say your times tables and my father’s red pen crossing out mistakes 

I’m from chopping onions in the kitchen and setting the table  

second helpings of shepherds pie  

I’m from magwinya and samp 

I’m from sleeping head to toe when overnight guests come and stay forever and ever  

I’m from waking up to This is the BBC world service  

I’m from lining up with my sisters for a spoon full of Cod liver oil  

I’m from Saturday morning cartoons  

Scooby Doo and Yabba Dabba Doo 

I’m from family gatherings on Sundays and singing freedom songs 

From Aunties who kiss you on the lips (Yuck)  

I’m from stolen teenage kisses  

And boys who called you on the land line while your sister listened on the other phone 

I’m from posters of Duran Duran and cassette tapes you’d rewind with a ball point pen 

I’m from before cell phones and GPS 

I’m from maps and waiting for photos to be developed 

I’m from Stan and Angela, Ntombi and Mavuso 

From a generation that walked upright 

I’m from voting for Mandela on a bright sunny day 

From weeping at the Truth Commission and holding my head high  

I’m from high gates and jacaranda lined streets 

From potholes and laughter  

I’m from a plane that brought me to Australia  

from friendships that have taught me to respect Noongar Boodjar and to walk gently  

I’m from windswept netball courts and look at me Mum at gymnastics 

Chatting with mums at the school gate  

I’m from Woolies and the Chinese grocer 

From mangoes from up north and hot summer sand 

From yelling at the kids to get off the trampoline  

From bombies at Beatty Park and nippers  

Ice lollies and skinks 

I’m from after work drinks with two Kylies and an Anna  

I’m from many places and I’m from right here right now.