By Ryan Ubuntu Olson
“Finding My Humanity” by Ryan Ubuntu Olson is a compelling memoir that chronicles the author’s poignant journey from a sullen youth in middle America to emerging as an accidental activist on a college campus and eventually into a global thought leader in gender and human rights, leading and shaping inclusive development approaches around the world. Growing up in rural Colorado and grappling with the challenges of self-discovery, he faces discrimination and societal norms that threaten to suppress his authentic self, the humanity within him and us all.
The narrative takes a transformative turn as he finds himself spearheading advocacy efforts on a conservative Catholic campus. He is thrust into the role of an accidental activist as he confronts various prejudices head-on, ultimately gaining national recognition for his unwavering commitment to equality.
Amidst the highs and lows of love, heartbreak, and personal growth, Ryan’s journey reaches new heights as he circumnavigates the globe and discovers his humanity as equal to others in different circumstances around the world, forever shaping him. He then serves at the forefront of global LGBTI movements, championing inclusion at the highest levels of global development and human rights spaces, guided by sage elders.
A central theme of “Finding My Humanity” is the transformative power of turning one’s “why” into their “how.” Ryan Ubuntu explores the concept of aligning personal convictions with actionable steps, providing readers with a roadmap to turn their own passions into meaningful change. Through his experiences, the memoir serves as a testament to the extraordinary impact one can achieve by the simplest of acts, with global implications, and make a meaningful difference.
The memoir delves into the intricate tapestry of relationships, resilience, and the profound impact one individual can have on the world. “Finding My Humanity” is an honest reflection on the power of love. Readers are immersed in the complexities of advocating for human rights, navigating international landscapes, and learning to value our shared humanity as a whole and our place within it. Ryan Ubuntu Olson’s story serves as an inspiration for anyone striving to foster positive change in a world hungry for love and acceptance.
Notable figures like Judy Shepard, Mungi Ngomane (Desmond Tutu’s granddaughter), Alok Menon, Niobe Way, and David Kuria have made contributions to the book’s opening preface. Additionally, the book is currently being sold in a number of independent bookstores, as well as online in both digital and paperback versions on Amazon, Apple and other locations.
“With Finding My Humanity” Ryan Ubuntu has not just shared his wonderful and personal journey, he has illuminated a path for others to travel on to deepen connections, understand one’s purpose, and strengthen their own humanity as well.” –Neil Giuliano, Former Mayor of Tempe, Arizona; Former President & CEO, GLAAD and San Francisco AIDS Foundation
“Finding My Humanity is a stunning exploration of the beauty of our interconnectedness and the power of our capacity to love. Author, Ryan Ubuntu Olson takes us on a dynamic journey across the world, including readers in a moving narrative from his experiences in advocacy and personal growth. His fearless consideration of vulnerability and marginalization is not just about a memoir- it’s an urgent call to embrace the shared humanity that binds us all. Our Ubuntu”–Saraounia Mboka-Boyer, Development Change Maker and Inclusion Champion
“Reading Finding My Humanity feels like watching the trailer to a movie you cannot wait to see. Ryan’s life journey has already had prominent highs and lows, adventuresome travels to far off lands, and early, but poignant romances. Joining Ryan on his transition from the gregarious young boy from Fort Collins to the recognized and powerful champion for the dignity and rights of LGBTQI+ people everywhere is a privilege to be embraced.” –Chloe Schwenke, founder/president of the Center for Values in International Development, adjunct professor at Georgetown University, and first openly transgender Presidential political appointee to ever serve in any of the federal foreign affair’s agencies.