Balwinder Sehmi, 64, was born in Kenya during British colonial rule and migrated to the UK at age 14 with her single mother, who sought independence after surviving domestic violence.

Growing up in a tightly knit Asian community in Kenya, she recalls strong cultural values and collective support, contrasting it with the isolation she initially faced in England. Her grandfather was among the many Indians brought to East Africa by the British to build railways, which shaped her family’s path. Settling in Swindon after marriage, Balwinder worked in nursing while raising four daughters, proudly combining Punjabi and Western values in their upbringing.

Despite initial racism and a lack of welcome from the local Indian community, she and her husband persevered. She strongly values education, self-respect, and independence, and is proud of what her family has achieved despite not coming from privilege. She identifies as British Asian, Kenyan, not Indian, and reflects deeply on the sacrifices and strength passed through generations.