This journey from Trinidad forced me to grow as a person. I had to learn independence quickly, especially being in a new country where I didn’t know many people. I became more self-aware, more disciplined, and more focused. I realized that success was not just about natural talent — it was about consistency, time management, and learning how to bounce back from setbacks. The one thing that helped me to be disciplined was connecting with the steel pan. I had learned to play it in my country. I like learning how to strike certain notes to produce different sounds. I practiced often in my own country. To help myself get through the changes in my new country, I started practicing again from time to time. It helped me feel as if I had never left. I connected with others who played. After some time, it helped me to start taking more responsibility for my actions and to work harder to stay on track, even when things felt overwhelming. But playing the steel pan helped me feel at peace when I was overwhelmed. It helped me to feel that I did not leave my culture and my traditions behind- that they are a part of me. This helped me to value my past and to look forward to my future.I’m proud of how far I have come since leaving Trinidad. The journey has not been easy, but every challenge has shaped me into someone stronger and more focused.  I know there’s still a long way to go, but I’m committed to staying on this path, while still playing the steel pan with the fondest memories.

– AM

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant