Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of forming a close friendship with two incredible sisters, Noma and Lore. They have opened my eyes to Botswana’s rich and diverse culture. As first-generation Botswanian Americans, they share their culture and traditions with me and the rest of Diversity Club at my school. Each summer, they came back with stories, snacks, and trinkets from their time with their family that they shared with participants in the club. 

The most prominent memory I have from one of their shared experiences is when they brought back a traditional snack from Botswana, called mopane. Now, mopane may sound like some sort of sweet dessert, but what it actually is is dried caterpillar skins! Most members of our club initially reacted with disgust, but they quickly explained the significance of these small snacks and how Botswanian people have turned it into a delicacy. I wasn’t able to taste the mopane myself because of my vegetarian lifestyle, but watching others in the club try it was an experience in itself. It wasn’t just about the caterpillars; it was about people’s willingness to try something new, despite its initial perception as gross. Watching others move past their initial hesitation and engage with something tied to Botswana’s culture reminded me of the power of open-mindedness and curiosity when it comes to learning about different ways of life.

Noma and Lore shared more than just food, however. Lore participated in a unique program where she would write letters to students in Botswana, sharing details about American culture. In turn, the students would write back with descriptions of their daily lives in Botswana. This exchange offered Lore—and by extension, those of us in the Diversity Club—insight into the everyday experiences of students living halfway across the world. From school routines to the challenges and small joys of life in Botswana, these letters provided a personalized glimpse into a culture that most of us knew little to nothing about.

Each presentation they offered us was a way for me, and others, to remind ourselves that learning about different cultures isn’t just about facts or traditions—it’s about human connection. These experiences have shown me the importance of embracing the diversity that exists in my community, lessons that will stay with me long after my time in the Diversity Club is over.