Where You Are Really From: The Complex Journey of Identity

NATIONWIDE - NOVEMBER 2025 - (USAnews.com) — In the multicultural whirlwind of our modern world, identity is no longer a singular concept. It is a mosaic, shaped by history, geography, language, and the seemingly innocuous question: “Where are you really from?” Dr. Rolade Berthier’s book, Where You Are Really From: Humour and Introspection into Identity, explores this question with depth, humor, and personal narrative.

From her global upbringing to her extensive career as a sociologist and interculturalist, Dr. Berthier has lived in Asia, Australia, Europe, and Luxembourg, and her experiences have uniquely positioned her to analyze the intersection of culture, identity, and belonging. In her collection of essays and stories, she demonstrates the complexities of identity with wit, shedding light on how accents, names, and heritage influence our sense of self and our place in the world.

The Mission Behind Where You Are Really From

In the book’s preface, Dr. Berthier writes: “This book was born from an unholy union of righteous indignation and the unshakable urge to prove a point with footnotes. It all started in October 2024 at the bookfair in Luxembourg. I was having a pleasant, literary day until an American shattered the peace. With the breezy confidence of someone who had just Googled the quote on my stand, he triumphantly declared that I was Filipino. It was not in a curious or conversational tone but in the proud voice of a person who believed he had just discovered me, had planted a flag with a golden sun that symbolises independence and democracy, and was awaiting to be appointed the Philippines’ honorary consul in Luxembourg”. (Dr. Berthier is a Filipino-born Australian).

Dr. Berthier’s mission with Where You Are Really From is clear: to offer a relatable, humorous exploration of the complexities surrounding identity in an increasingly globalized world. As a sociologist and interculturalist, her professional journey has been centered around understanding how people from diverse backgrounds communicate and connect. Through this book, she invites readers to embark on a personal and collective journey to examine the subtle ways our ethnicity and heritage shape us.

The question "Where are you really from?" is more than just an inquiry about one's birthplace; it is a doorway to uncovering deeper assumptions about race, ethnicity, and belonging. Dr. Berthier explains how this question, sometimes turned into a statement, can trigger a wide range of emotions, from curiosity to discomfort (e.g. Where you are really from is there, and not here).  

A Global Perspective on Identity

What makes Dr. Berthier's approach unique is her ability to weave personal anecdotes with broader cultural observations, offering a global perspective on identity. The book examines how various factors, such as geography, family history, accents, and even names, not only shape our identities but also influence how others perceive us. Through lively and relatable chapters, she explores the nuances of ethnicities and cultural identities in Australia, the Philippines, France, Luxembourg, the UK, the USA, and other countries she has visited and loved.

As someone who has worked in multicultural settings and traveled extensively, Dr. Berthier provides a first-hand account of the impact these experiences have had on her identity and perception of other people’s identities. Whether it was her time as a Policy Research Officer for Multicultural Affairs Queensland or her current role as an English-language trainer in Luxembourg, these experiences have influenced her understanding of identity in ways that resonate with readers.

The book also tackles the realities of global upbringing and immigration, offering insights into how identity is constantly in flux for people who navigate multiple cultures. For instance, she mentions in this book an acquaintance who, the first time they met, made it clear that she is South African and not Indian. It highlights how humor and human connection can bridge cultural divides and provide a sense of belonging in a world where borders and labels often seem arbitrary.

The Power of Names, Accents, and Heritage

Names, accents, and family histories are powerful symbols of identity, and Dr. Berthier explores how they shape our understanding of ourselves and others. The book discusses the significance of names, which carry cultural meaning and are often used to categorize or label people (e.g. “You have a French name”, “That’s a Polish surname”, and so on). Similarly, accents can evoke assumptions about one’s background, social status, and even the perceived intelligence. Dr. Berthier examines these dynamics with sensitivity, acknowledging the complexity of identity formation and the often-painful process of being labeled based on superficial characteristics. As her French friend has said, “You’re Asian but not really”(sic).

She also explores how our heritage plays a central role in shaping our sense of belonging. Whether it is through the food we eat, the languages we speak, or the traditions we follow, our heritage provides a sense of continuity and connection to something larger than ourselves. But, in a world where migration and cultural exchange are increasingly common, our sense of heritage can be both a source of pride and a point of confusion. Dr. Berthier encourages readers to embrace the fluidity of their identities and to recognize that identity is not something fixed, but rather something that evolves.

Breaking Down Stereotypes and Building Bridges

Throughout Where You Are Really From, Dr. Berthier confronts the stereotypes that often accompany cross-cultural interactions. She tackles the assumptions people make about others based on their appearance, accent, or country of origin, and challenges readers to question their own biases. By examining these stereotypes, Dr. Berthier sheds light on the ways in which they limit our understanding of others and hinder genuine connection.

At the same time, the book emphasizes the importance of resilience in the face of stereotypes. Dr. Berthier shares stories of individuals who have navigated the complexities of cultural identity with grace and humor, offering hope for those who struggle with the challenges of belonging. Through these stories, readers are reminded that identity is not something to be ashamed of or hidden; it is a source of strength and resilience.

A Personal Journey with Universal Themes

While Where You Are Really From is deeply personal to Dr. Berthier, it also speaks to universal themes that resonate with readers from all walks of life. The book addresses the complexities of identity that arise from living in a multicultural world, offering a roadmap for dealing with the intricacies of selfhood in a constantly shifting global landscape. In Luxembourg, for example, there are people who do not speak Luxembourgish but identify as Luxembourgers; Dr Berthier’s book explains why. Whether through humorous anecdotes, thought-provoking analysis, or deeply reflective insights, Dr. Berthier’s writing invites readers to consider the power of identity and the importance of understanding ourselves and others.

In a world that often feels divided, Dr. Berthier’s book offers a vision of unity and empathy. By embracing the complexities of identity and acknowledging how our personal histories shape our sense of belonging, we can begin to build a more inclusive and understanding global community. Where You Are Really From is not just a book about the complexities of identity; it is a call to action for more thoughtful, respectful conversations about who we are and where we belong.

For more information or to purchase the book, visit Where You Are Really From on Amazon and IngramSpark. Connect with Dr. Berthier through her LinkedIn or explore more on her blog.