Written by Joshua
13 Jan 2025
Looking back, sometimes I think about how crazy I was taking this decision to move to Sweden. In all honesty, there are just so many things that I didn’t consider, especially as a minority. I don’t want you guys to make the same mistake. So, for the black people in the back, who, like me, kind of just packed a bag and hopped on a plane, here a few things that you probably should understand before landing in Sweden.
1. There aren’t very many of us
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. There really aren’t very many black students in Sweden. I know that it’s a very subjective and non-scientific statement, but that’s just been my experience, and I believe it’s the truth. One thing I do know is that there are less than 80 students with degrees from African universities at KTH. To put that in context, there are around 13500 students currently enrolled at KTH. So, yeah, not many black students. I should also add that the black community in my university is not very integrated. A number of the students are just here on exchange and others never really seem to group up with one another, not like the other ethnicities at least. Keep reading though, there’s more that you should know.
2. The space can feel lonely
We’ve established that there aren’t many black people. That means that sometimes, depending on the company you like to keep, you may feel a bit lonely. In my experience, there are times when I really do wish that I had other black people around, especially black people from my region. There is a sense of safety and understanding that comes with a community of people who are culturally similar to you. In my opinion, other races or ethnic groups in Stockholm are able to experience that sense of community because they are present in larger numbers. For black people though, it’s just that much more difficult.
3. It’s a space that you can make your own
With all that said, I honestly don’t mind being unique in this space. No, it’s not always rainbows and butterflies, but sometimes I do appreciate standing out. I’ve never really liked to fit in, at least I don’t think so 😅. Jamaicans tend to be a very proud people and I think I carry that pride with me wherever I go. I’m always eager for people to ask “Where are you from?” because nine times out of ten, I get a look of shock in response. Being black and from the Caribbean makes me feel like I have a perspective that not many people can share, and I’m always eager to share it. I think that would be the same for a lot of black people.
4. The space is welcoming
Finally, I want all black students to know that Sweden is open and welcoming to us. I can say categorically that schools here are actively working to diversify their campuses. I have seen, firsthand, practical initiatives targeted at attracting black students from all over the world, especially from Africa. In fact, even at KTH, I’ve seen where the administration goes one step further to not only attract, but to integrate those students. Now, I’m not going to tell you that the situation is perfect as is, it’s actually far from. I think though, with more students and a little more time and effort, stronger communities of black students will begin to evolve in Swedish universities.
I definitely think that any black student who is looking to go a little further out of their comfort zone, to study somewhere that isn’t as common as the US, the UK or Australia should definitely consider Sweden. Safety, equity and inclusion are all hallmarks of the Swedish culture, and while they aren’t completely perfect just yet, coming to Sweden and sharing your fresh perspective can help to make Sweden an even more equitable country.
Want to hear more about being a diversity scholar in Sweden? Check out this post. You can also read about the first-hand experiences of black students in Sweden here: Akua’s story (Ghana), Chris’ story (France), and Caroline’s story (Uganda).
Can’t wait to share with you guys in the next post!
