MUC Club Presents: Identity
Welcome to The Man Up Club Presents: Identity, hosted by Celena Lena, aka Sis from C Bro, and Elijah Handy aka eliisetapart. Our latest episode delves into powerful conversations on identity, faith, and the importance of mentorship. If you’re unfamiliar with The Man Up Club, we are a nonprofit leadership organization in the Twin Cities dedicated to empowering young black men through life skills, social skills, and a variety of engaging programs.
Discovering Identity
The conversation kicks off with Celena introducing eliisetapart. Elijah shares his unique journey, discussing how being adopted by his grandparents at an early age shaped his identity. He candidly speaks about the feelings of confusion and rejection he experienced, and how his upbringing in a faith-filled household, guided by his prayer warrior grandmother, eventually led him to understand his purpose.
The Role of Faith
Faith plays a significant role in Elijah’s story. He opens up about the transformative power of getting closer to God and how it has helped him become more secure in his identity. He shares insights into how faith has brought peace, helped him overcome insecurities, and provided a foundation for his life. Elijah emphasizes the freedom he has found in not conforming to societal pressures, instead finding joy and freedom in living a life aligned with his faith.
Navigating Challenges
Elijah discusses some of the challenges he’s faced, including meeting his biological father for the first time at 22 and the complexities of building that relationship. He reflects on the impact of family dynamics and the importance of understanding one’s roots in shaping identity. His story is a testament to resilience and the strength found in confronting and accepting one’s past.
Mentorship Matters
Both hosts highlight the crucial role of mentorship in personal growth. Elijah pays tribute to his late therapist, JC, acknowledging the valuable guidance he received. Mentorship, as emphasized by both Celena and Elijah, can significantly influence young men, helping them navigate life’s challenges and develop their identity.
The Importance of Self-Reflection
Elijah touches on the importance of self-reflection, sharing his journey with journaling and how it has helped him process emotions and grow personally. Celena echoes the sentiment, encouraging young men to take time for introspection to avoid getting caught up in the noise of daily life.
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with Elijah and Celena emphasizing the significance of getting closer to God and understanding one’s value. They highlight the freedom that comes from living a life rooted in faith and encourage young men to seek out mentors and communities that support their growth.
The Man Up Club Podcast is dedicated to providing a platform for important conversations that inspire and empower. Tune in every Thursday night on Holy Culture Radio to catch new episodes and join us in our mission to uplift young men in their journey towards a brighter future. If you’re interested in joining The Man Up Club or know someone who might benefit from our programs, visit our website and reach out today.
Holy Culture Radio is operated by The Corelink Solution, a non-profit organization that aims to create a safe space for healing, foster unity in our communities and empower the next generation of creatives and leaders through spreading the gospel.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction to the MANUP Club Presents Podcast
01:29 Meet Our Special Guest: Elijah Handy
01:43 Elijah’s Upbringing and Family Dynamics
02:52 The Role of Faith and Identity
18:29 Therapy and Mentorship
21:55 Understanding God and Personal Growth
27:07 Reflecting on Personal Growth
27:59 Dealing with Rejection and Family Issues
29:26 Confrontations and Consequences
35:29 Navigating Life’s Challenges
44:10 The Importance of Self-Reflection
49:27 Final Thoughts and Advice
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