While I concur that culture has a lot to do with it - my wife is Japanese. One of my kids takes after me and the other after my wife. I also believe that there is a strong piece of just pure genetics involved.
My inclination is toward math/hard science/tons of reading. I learned to read at 4 because my dad ALWAYS had a book in his hand or back pocket -work or home -and I wanted to emulate him.
My wife is not as adept at these (she readily admits it isn’t her thing), but shes a tyrant when it comes to study and a true believer in brute force and rote memorization.
One of my girls definitely takes after me - mannerisms, books, hard study. The other much more laid back and “eh”. Only 1 1/2 years apart - same level of “attack” from my wife and prompting from me (I’m big that they own their grades not us, she thinks its a reflection on us).
On the other hand - my youngest is much more creative and “picks up” things and is also more socially astute - though not outgoing.
Key is that just like a physical athlete - it isn’t just what your born with but also the effort you put into it. Even the brain needs exercised. So my youngest will likely never be the superstar that my oldest is because of pure inherent nature of genetics, BUT she will not be at the bottom of the heap either.
We just make it clear that despite what she thinks is fair our expectations are the same and we aren’t going to let her skate just because it’s harder. Same things go for the social pieces where the eldest “do I have to go” doesn’t hold water, because she needs to learn to interact with others appropriately even though it’s harder for her.
Culture has a lot to do with clearing the lower level of the bar; but genetics has a fair piece to do with those who soar above the upper reaches. God gives in different ways what each of us needs.
Ditto.
Ditto.