2025/Kian-

I'm Kian Boyd, and I was raised in the military. I've spent the majority of my life in Japan and am half Japanese and half African American. Although I was born in the United States, I have lived in Japan since 1 was five years old. Being raised in a military household has been a unique experience that has impacted how I am today.

I first became aware of what it meant to be a member of a military community when I started school at Shirley Lanham Elementary. After that, I continued to develop both academically and personally at Zama Middle High School. Being in surroundings that were always changing and surrounded by individuals from different backgrounds taught me how to adjust, build relationships fast, and maintain a feeling of myself.

I’ve been able to maintain my Japanese heritage while remaining a part of the American community by being a part of the military in Japan. Although life is full of obstacles, they have made my journey unique.