My name is Salim Mawani and this is a photo of me growing up. I am humbled to live in a country such as the United States of America and work at a world-renowned organization such as the Smithsonian Institution. Both are unique in their own special way as they proudly enable individuals to maintain their native heritage, while assimilating with the community around them. With grandparents from India and Pakistan that moved to Africa, and parents that escaped the brutal political unrest in Uganda, my family migrated to the USA when I was only eight years old. I am proud of my Asian heritage with commitment to family, respect to others, and unbridled devotion to spiritual faith.