“I Don’t Trust Giving My DNA to a Company…”

I hear this often—and I completely understand. At its core, that hesitation usually comes down to one thing: privacy. And it’s a valid concern.

But here’s something to consider: our personal information is already shared in many areas of life. Think about when you visit the doctor and give a blood sample—do you truly believe that’s 100% secure? Probably not. Yet, we often trust that process because it leads to answers.

Years ago, I decided to have my wife, Tamara Brown Driver, and her sister, Denise Haggins, take DNA tests through three different companies. Initially, the results were pretty standard—some regional ancestry data and a handful of distant relatives. Nothing life-changing.

Until one day, everything changed.

A DNA match appeared—from Zimbabwe. This person was on a mission to learn more about their roots and the people they connected with—especially those in the United States. That single match opened the door to an incredible collaboration that led us on a deeper journey.

And from that connection, something powerful unfolded: Tamara and Denise discovered a direct link to Africa—a rare and meaningful discovery for many African Americans seeking to reclaim a lost part of their heritage.

###From here, I’ll let Tamara share the rest of her remarkable journey in her own words.###

A Miracle of Bloodlines: Our Return to Africa

The Unimaginable Journey

My sister Denise and I never imagined that our DNA would one day trace us back to Africa.

Though we were born and raised in the United States, we are descendants of Africans who were enslaved and brought here in the 1600s. A homecoming like this always felt out of reach—both for us and, surely, for the ancestors who endured such pain and separation through slavery.

Then, the Call Came

In late 2021, everything changed.

A DNA match from Zimbabwe appeared, and a relative reached out.

It felt as though the "Motherland" was calling us home—not just for ourselves, but for those who came before us. Those who hoped, prayed, and endured so that one day… we might return.

We were stunned. To have a living, breathing connection to Africa was overwhelming. In our Zimbabwean relatives, we saw ourselves: the same nose, cheekbones, rhythm, and most importantly—blood.

Touching Down on Sacred Soil

When Denise, my husband Wayne, and I landed in Zimbabwe, the sense of belonging was immediate. It felt like home.

We were warmly embraced by our Zimbabwean family—especially our sister Margaret and our nephew Harmony. Though we’d met Margaret through Zoom, then in Madrid, and even at our home in the U.S., this was different.

This was our roots. Our land. Our people.

A Family Reunited

As we journeyed through Harare, Gweru, Masvingo, Kwekwe, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls, one thing remained constant: family.

We hugged. We laughed. We couldn’t stop taking photos.
In the village, we met Uncle Pius—“Unc”—the respected Village Head. A man full of wisdom, faith, and love, revered by all who know him.

We also had the rare honor of visiting several schools named after one of our great ancestors, Kanongovere. Meeting students, teachers, and leaders brought an overwhelming sense of pride—and a deep commitment to return.

More Than DNA—It's Identity

In every city and village, we met more family. And with each meeting came more discovery:

• We share the same facial features, mannerisms, and even sass!

• We belong to the Mhofu clan, and our totem is the Eland.

• Our lineage traces back to the Bantu tribe.

• Our relatives speak both Shona and English.

• And yes… dowries are still practiced!
  (My husband got a good laugh when they told him my dowry would have cost him 10 cows.)
  

A Priceless Homecoming

To say we were elated is an understatement.

This experience was nothing short of a miracle—one full of DNA, divine timing, and deep love. The price of a DNA test pales in comparison to the gift of being reunited with our ancestral family in Zimbabwe.

What About You?

Have you explored your DNA story? Have you heard the call of your roots?

We’d love to hear your journey. Because sometimes, what seems lost… is simply waiting to be found.