Amina Bawa's Journey Between Brazil, Nigeria, and Europe Redefines Identity

Amina Bawa's life spans continents, identities, and unexpected challenges. Born to a Nigerian father and Brazilian mother, she now helps others navigate study opportunities in Portugal while reflecting on her own complex heritage. Her experiences—from near-kidnapping in Hungary to reconnecting with Nigeria—shape both her academic work and her role as a cultural guide between Brazil and Europe.

Bawa's early years were marked by movement and adaptation. In her twenties, she reconnected with her Nigerian roots after her father returned to the country. This journey deepened her sense of identity, though she still identifies as 100% Brazilian and carioca, with half of her heritage tied to Nigeria.

Her academic path took an unexpected turn during Brazil's political turmoil. In 2016, as the country faced a presidential impeachment, she found a temporary refuge in Portugal. The shift allowed her to pursue a master's degree while observing stark differences in how Blackness is studied across borders. In Portugal, she encountered real African experiences, contrasting with what she describes as Brazil's often imagined or romanticised views of Africa.

Travel has not always been smooth for Bawa. She has spoken openly about harrowing moments, including a near-kidnapping in Hungary. These incidents fuel her belief that personal stories—especially those of joy and resilience—should have more space in academic research. Too often, she notes, discussions about Black communities focus on struggle rather than thriving.

Now, Bawa uses her experiences to guide others. She organises learning journeys for students hoping to study in Portugal, drawing on her own time there. Her work challenges traditional research approaches, pushing for perspectives that centre the individual rather than framing Black lives as 'the other'.

Bawa's dual role as an educator and cultural bridge reflects her layered background. Her efforts to highlight Black success stories and facilitate academic exchanges offer practical support to students. Meanwhile, her own journey—from Brazil to Nigeria to Portugal—continues to shape her approach to identity, travel, and scholarship.