Not enough credit is given to those fathers that raise a daughter to be a feminist and remind me that I am more than just an element of my cultural background – I am me. So Pops, I want to thank you today for being more than just a father, but for being a friend to me and my sisters. You have never let me forget that honesty and sincerity come hand in hand with hard work if I really want to reach for success. Thank you for always supporting me in my life choices and defending me against the stereotypes of following an expected linear path just to uphold societal acceptance. My passion for travelling was inherited from your curiosity of the beauty of this planet and it’s because of the sacrifices you and mum made that I was privileged to explore the world from such a young age. Thank you for always listening and never judging, something I can only strive to continually do. Most importantly, thank you for trusting me as YOUR friend, for picking up the phone and turning to me when you also needed a friendly ear. If there is one thing I would ask you to do, is love yourself as much as me and the girls love you. Don’t underestimate the importance you hold in our lives. You held my hand, now let me hold yours. Love you always and more… Seju xx

Read the full Brown Girl Magazine Writers’ Father’s Day Tribute here