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Anton Blank, a writer, researcher, and former social worker, shared his deeply personal journey of navigating identity, addiction, and recovery, offering a powerful insight into the challenges of growing up feeling different and finding purpose through adversity.

Born in New Zealand to a Māori mother and a Swiss father, Blank’s childhood was shaped by a unique blend of cultures. ​Raised in a predominantly Māori community, he was acutely aware of his “otherness,” stemming from his father’s European heritage and his own early awareness of being gay. ​Growing up in the 1960s and 70s, Blank struggled with feelings of isolation and shame, as societal acceptance of LGBTQ+ identities was virtually nonexistent. ​His parents, both educators and creative thinkers, provided a nurturing yet unconventional upbringing, which further set him apart from his peers. ​

As a young adult, Blank found a sense of belonging in the gay community, but this came with exposure to substance use. ​Alcohol and drugs became a way to escape the shame and anxiety he had carried since childhood. ​While initially offering relief, his substance use escalated, eventually leading to addiction. ​By his late 30s, Blank’s life began to unravel, and the arrival of methamphetamine in Wellington marked a dangerous turning point. ​It wasn’t until he was arrested for drug possession in his mid-40s that he realized the severity of his addiction and decided to seek help.

Blank’s recovery journey was long and complex. ​He sought support through counseling and mental health services, where he learned to manage his depression and anxiety. ​Medication and simple strategies, such as planning his days and focusing on self-care, played a crucial role in his healing. ​Ultimately, he found lasting support in a 12-step program, which provided him with a framework for sobriety, spirituality, and personal growth.

Now in recovery, Blank has dedicated his life to social justice and advocacy. ​His work as a writer and researcher focuses on addressing systemic racism, implicit bias, and inequality, particularly within Māori communities. Drawing from his own experiences, he aims to inspire change and foster understanding through his creative and professional endeavors. ​

Blank’s story is one of resilience and transformation, highlighting the importance of self-love, acceptance, and finding purpose. ​His journey serves as a beacon of hope for those facing similar struggles, proving that recovery and personal growth are possible, even in the face of profound challenges.