Every woman’s journey into herself looks different and Brene Brown once said "Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we'll ever do."
For Aminata, her journey has been shaped by movement across countries, cultures, new environments, and the work of building confidence over time. Aminata Kamara is a law student, creative, and young woman navigating identity, culture, and growth between Sierra Leone and the United Kingdom.
In this edition of Women of Grass-Fields, we spoke with Aminata, she shared about culture, self-expression, personal growth, and the decisions that have shaped the woman she is becoming.
Tell us about yourself, what’s your name and what you do?
My name is Aminata Kamara. I am 21, turning 22 next month. I am currently pursuing an undergraduate law degree at The University of Law. I live in London with my family and I work part-time as an Usher at The Royal Opera House. Being in that environment deepened my love for Arts and entertainment. I am also passionate about wellness, lifestyle and fashion, not just aesthetic, but as a form of self-expression. The way I present myself is intentional, it reflects growth, confidence, and the woman I am becoming.
Can you give us a little bit about your background?
I was born in Sierra Leone and moved to the United Kingdom at the age of 15. I hold a dual nationality, Sierra Leonean and British which allows me to navigate and appreciate both cultures that shaped how I see the world, and how I show up in it.
What part of your origin shaped your style the most?
My Sierra Leonean heritage has shaped my style the most. The richness of the culture through vibrant colours, bold prints and the elegance of traditional wear has influenced how I dress and carry myself. It taught me that fashion is not just about following trends, but about identity, pride and storytelling.
When do you feel most connected to your culture?
I feel most connected to my culture during meaningful moments such as celebrating Eid, watching Afcon Football, commemorating Sierra Leone’s Independence Day on the 27th of April and attending weddings or birthday celebrations. I also feel it strongly when supporting artists from back home who come to perform exhibitions here in the UK. Those moments remind me of who I am and where I come from.
Have you ever moved countries?
Yes.
If yes, did moving to a new country change how you express yourself?
Moving to a new country definitely shaped how I expressed myself. At first, I felt the need to adapt and blend in, but overtime, I learned to embrace my differences. It made me more confident in owning my identity and expressing my culture through my style, voice and presence.
What makes you come alive?
I feel most alive when I am expressing myself freely, whether that’s through fashion or being part of an artistic environment like the Royal Opera House, or connecting with people who inspire and uplift me. Growth, creativity and meaningful experiences are what truly energise me.
Have you ever felt like you had to tone yourself down?
Yes, especially in an environment where I felt different or misunderstood but, overtime, I realised that shrinking only deemed my light. I have learnt that my presence is not something to minimise, it’s something to honour.
Was there a season where you doubted yourself? What changed?
There have been moments where I questioned my path, especially adjusting to a new country and balancing my ambitions. What changed is my mindset, I began to trust my journey, and I understood that growth isn’t always linear so, I started focusing on progress rather than perfection.
What boundary improved your life the most?
Learning to protect my energy and say no without guilt. Setting boundaries allowed me to prioritise my peace, my goals and my well-being.
What are you no longer apologising for?
I am no longer apologizing for taking up space, for evolving, or for choosing myself. Growth requires boldness, and I have embraced that.
When did you realise you didn’t have to shrink?
I realised that I didn’t have to shrink when I understood that my uniqueness is my strength, the moment I stopped seeking validation and started trusting myself, everything changed.
Who inspires you the most?
I am deeply inspired by resilient black women. Those who navigate in different worlds while staying rooted in who they are. I am also inspired by my mother and the strength she embodies every day.
What are you building that people can’t see yet?
I am building a future rooted in purpose through my law career, personal growth and the life I am creating for myself. It’s a quiet process right now, but it’s intentional and powerful.
How do you define abundance?
Abundance to me, is peace of mind, good health, meaningful relationships, and the ability to live authentically. It is not just about material success but about feeling fulfilled and aligned.
What does success mean to you now versus five years ago?
Five years ago, success meant achievement and recognition. Now, it means balance, growth, and inner peace. It’s about becoming the best version of myself while staying true to my values.
If you could say something to younger-self what would it be?
What I would say to my younger self is - "keep going, you are on the right path, trust the process, stay grounded, and never forget the strength it took to get here."
What’s your favourite quote or matra
It comes from the Quran “Indeed! With every hardship, comes ease”. This reminds me to keep going no matter what, life may come with struggles but there are always endless possibilities on the other side.
What advice would you give a young Black girl who feels behind?
First of all, you are not incomplete, you are whole and you are not behind. You are simply moving at your own pace. Everything may not make sense right now, but one day, it will. Trust your journey, embrace your lessons and blessings and never give up on yourself.
Complete this sentence: Black women deserve ___
exist fully, to be celebrated loudly, and to live without limits.
And this is exactly what Women of Grass-Fields is about, creating space for women to exist fully, to be seen, and to be celebrated in every stage of their becoming. Tell us in the comments, what part of Aminata’s story felt like your story too? To get featured follow us on socials @womenofgf or send an email to women@grass-fields.co.uk
