I’m Clive Myrie, and my new BBC ancestry series left me angry about history – but with a constructive way to use it

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Many people are curious about where they come from and want to understand their family history. This desire to connect with our roots explains the growing interest in ancestry DNA tests and shows like “Who Do You Think You Are?” which help people trace their heritage.

While filming my series, African Adventure, I’ve had incredible experiences like hand-feeding penguins in South Africa and navigating the lively energy of Lagos, Nigeria. I also participated in a beautiful naming ceremony in Ghana, which felt like a symbolic homecoming and a chance to connect with my African roots – I was even given an African name, representing a sense of belonging and origin.

I also had a flag created by a talented artisan from the Fante people of Ghana, who are known for their traditional folk art. The flag is brightly colored and features designs that celebrate my Jamaican heritage. I proudly display it above my desk at home, and it feels good to add this meaningful element to who I am.

People might assume I already have a strong sense of who I am. I was born and raised in Bolton, in the north of England, and I’m proud to be a Northerner. I’m also very proud to be British, and my heritage extends to the Caribbean, as both my parents are from Jamaica. Because of them, I still feel deeply connected to my Caribbean roots – I love West Indian food and Jamaican culture.

Can I embrace all aspects of my identity, like the newsreader Clive Myrie? Absolutely. Understanding who you are truly requires knowing your history. My parents came from Jamaica, but my family’s roots go back further to Africa. While I don’t know the exact location, a DNA test points to the area once known as the Gold Coast, probably modern-day Ghana or Nigeria. My ancestors were forcibly brought to the Caribbean as slaves on the horrific Middle Passage.

For my latest project, I traveled to Ghana and visited a fort where enslaved people were once held. It’s possible my own ancestors were imprisoned there in terrible conditions before being forced onto ships through what’s known as the “Gate of No Return.” Being able to leave freely, unlike them, was a stark contrast and deeply moving. Several members of the American tour group I was with were visibly upset and cried during the visit.

It’s understandable to feel angry when learning about past injustices done to your ancestors. However, dwelling on that anger isn’t helpful. I believe it’s more productive to channel those feelings into learning about the past – to remember and honor those who came before us, while also gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves.

These days, “identity” often gets a bad reputation, especially with the rise of nationalism we’re seeing in many Western countries. However, identity can also be a powerful and positive thing – a way to confidently say, “This is me, and my experiences and background are just as valuable as anyone else’s.” We all deserve that same recognition.

Treat others with the same respect and consideration you expect for yourself. At our core, we are all human, sharing the same vulnerabilities. As famously stated in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, even someone different from us feels pain and suffers just like anyone else – “If you prick me, do I not bleed?”

Working on ‘African Adventure’ has been a deeply moving and impactful experience. Considering my potential roots in West Africa, it’s helped me feel more connected to the continent and its people, and given me a stronger sense of self and belonging.

Authors

Clive Myrie

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2026-01-26 20:41