Afros in the Diaspora

In Part 2 of this conversation, Sarah Uwadiae and family lawyer Lucy Diale Mewanu go deeper into the real-life consequences of separation in immigrant families, with a special focus on spousal sponsorship and the myths that keep many women feeling trapped. Lucy shares powerful case examples where partners left without warning, moved provinces, or started new relationships while still legally married, leaving the other spouse to navigate custody, finances, and immigration fears alone. She explains what actually happens legally when someone “just leaves,” how courts respond, and why waiting in silence can make situations harder to resolve. A major focus of this episode is spousal sponsorship. Lucy breaks down common misconceptions, clarifies what sponsored spouses can and cannot lose if a relationship ends, and explains the sponsor’s financial obligations. She emphasizes that immigration status is often misunderstood and that many people stay in unsafe or unhealthy situations out of fear rather than fact. The conversation highlights the importance of seeking accurate legal information early, protecting children’s stability, and understanding that separation does not automatically mean deportation or loss of rights. Topics covered include: This episode is for education and public awareness only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a qualified family or immigration lawyer. About the guest Lucy Diale Mewanu, BA (Hons), LL.B., is a Senior Associate and Managing Lawyer of the Family Law practice at Osuji & Smith Lawyers in Alberta, Canada. She is the Board Chair of Ruth’s House Society, a registered charity supporting individuals and families impacted by domestic abuse through shelter, advocacy, and culturally responsive programming. Lucy is also a volunteer lawyer with Calgary Legal Guidance and is deeply committed to increasing access to justice for immigrant and vulnerable communities. - Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss future conversations. 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube 📸 Follow us on FB, Instagram & TikTok: @AfrosInTheDiaspora

In Part 1 of this two-part Expert’s Corner conversation, host Sarah Uwadiae sits down with family lawyer Lucy Diale Mewanu to unpack the foundations of Canadian family law and the common misconceptions many immigrants bring into marriage, separation, and parenting disputes. Drawing from her frontline legal experience, Lucy explains the core principles that guide family courts in Canada and how cultural expectations from highly patriarchal societies can clash with the realities of the legal system. The conversation explores how silence, endurance, and “being patient” are often encouraged culturally, but can leave women and children vulnerable when relationships break down. They discuss what actually matters to the court in custody decisions, how separation is defined legally (not just emotionally), and why understanding your rights early can prevent long-term harm. Lucy also speaks about protective measures such as restraining orders, the legal risks of online slander during disputes, and how to navigate community rumours and gossip while a case is ongoing. This episode is an essential primer for immigrants and newcomers who want to understand the legal landscape before crisis hits. Topics covered include: This episode is for education and public awareness only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a qualified family lawyer. About the guest Lucy Diale Mewanu, BA (Hons), LL.B., is a Senior Associate and Managing Lawyer of the Family Law practice at Osuji & Smith Lawyers in Alberta, Canada. She serves as Board Chair of Ruth’s House Society, volunteers with Calgary Legal Guidance, and dedicates annual pro bono hours to increasing access to justice for vulnerable individuals and families. Originally from Cameroon, Lucy immigrated to Canada in 2012 and was called to the Alberta Bar in 2021. Her work centres on family protection, community education, and culturally responsive legal advocacy. - Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss future conversations. 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @AfrosInTheDiaspora

In this episode of Afros in the Diaspora, we speak with Maria, founder of AfroCare Support Network, about addressing HIV stigma in Black communities and the importance of culturally grounded care. Maria shares her journey as an immigrant, the inspiration behind AfroCare, and the systemic challenges that continue to impact access to support — from stigma within communities to barriers in funding and healthcare systems. This is an honest and necessary conversation about community, care, and change. About Afros in the Diaspora Afros in the Diaspora amplifies the voices, experiences, and expertise of African and Black diaspora communities across industries and lived experiences. Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss future conversations. 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @AfrosInTheDiaspora

Immigration is more than a physical move — it is an emotional, psychological, and cultural transition that can deeply impact identity, relationships, and mental well-being. In this Expert’s Corner episode of Afros in the Diaspora, Sarah sits down with mental health therapist Ayen Mabor to explore the mental health realities many immigrants face but rarely talk about. From grief and identity shifts to family pressures, relationship strain, and navigating racism, this conversation offers honest insight and practical support. Ayen shares guidance on recognizing emotional burnout, breaking stigma around therapy in Black and immigrant communities, finding culturally aligned mental health support, and rebuilding self-compassion while adjusting to life in a new country. This episode is for immigrants, first-generation individuals, families, and anyone supporting someone navigating migration and cultural transition. About Afros in the Diaspora Afros in the Diaspora amplifies the voices, experiences, and expertise of African and Black diaspora communities across industries and lived experiences. Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss future conversations. 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @AfrosInTheDiaspora

What does it take to build and sustain a Black dance company rooted in culture, authenticity, and community? In this episode of Afros in the Diaspora, Sarah sits down with dancer and cultural leader Casimiro “Cas” Nhussi to explore his journey into dance, the realities of building a Black dance company, and the challenges of funding, visibility, and long-term sustainability in the arts. Cas shares insights on staying culturally grounded while evolving creatively, supporting the next generation of dancers, and building work that lasts beyond trends. This conversation is a must-listen for dancers, creatives, and anyone building purpose-driven work rooted in culture and community. Afros in the Diaspora amplifies the voices, experiences, and expertise of African and Black diaspora communities across industries and lived experiences. Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss future conversations. 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @AfrosInTheDiaspora

If you watched this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to Afros in the Diaspora on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok: @afrosinthediaspora Share this episode, tag us, and join this growing community!

Finding safe, stable housing is one of the most important — and often most challenging — parts of settling into a new country. In this episode of Afros in the Diaspora: The Expert’s Corner, host Sarah Uwadiae sits down with Realtor Rose Lokiru for a practical, educational conversation about navigating the Canadian housing market as an immigrant. This episode breaks down what newcomers and long-settled immigrants need to know about renting, buying, tenancy rights, and protecting themselves from common pitfalls. From avoiding rental scams and understanding tenant protections to preparing for mortgage approval and exploring alternatives like rent-to-own or co-ownership, Rose shares clear, accessible guidance designed to help listeners make informed housing decisions. Whether you’re renting your first apartment, considering your first home purchase, or still finding your footing years after arriving in Canada, this conversation offers tools, clarity, and reassurance. What You’ll Learn About the Guest Rose Lokiru is a licensed Realtor who works closely with immigrants, newcomers, and first-time buyers navigating the Canadian housing market. She is known for her education-first approach, helping clients understand their rights, avoid costly mistakes, and build long-term housing stability with confidence. About The Expert’s Corner The Expert’s Corner is a series within Afros in the Diaspora that provides educational insights, practical tools, and community-informed conversations to support immigrants — whether newly arrived or still finding their feet — as they navigate life in Canada. Disclaimer This episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek personalized guidance from qualified professionals for their individual situations.

Don’t forget to follow Afros in the Diaspora on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok: @afrosinthediaspora Subscribe, share this episode, tag us, and join this growing community!

Elvis Prince Tognia joins us for a deeply moving conversation about resilience, responsibility, and the power of communication. Born and raised in Cameroon, Elvis grew up in a family where resources were limited and education was only available to one child—the eldest. After completing university, he immigrated to the United States without speaking a word of English, while carrying the responsibility of supporting his family back home. In this episode, Elvis shares how learning English as an adult transformed his life and became the foundation of his purpose. Today, he is an author, keynote speaker, emcee, and communication coach who teaches others how to speak with confidence, clarity, and impact. We discuss his journey from survival to service, the mindset shifts that shaped his growth, and how communication became both his passion and his calling. This episode is a testament to what’s possible when resilience meets purpose—and when a voice is finally given space to rise. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss future conversations. 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @AfrosInTheDiaspora

In this bite-sized Am I the Asshole? Black Immigrant Edition episode, we unpack a situation where someone dishes it out… but can’t take it when the same energy is returned. Send your anonymous stories to this link ~ bit.ly/4rMTayO ~ for a chance to be featured in a future episode. Don’t forget to follow Afros in the Diaspora on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok: @afrosinthediaspora Subscribe, share this episode, tag us, and join this growing community!

Moving to a new country comes with excitement—and real challenges. In the first episode of The Expert’s Corner, Sarah Uwadiae speaks with a PhD-trained Registered Social Worker and Counsellor - Dr. Linda Kongnetiman-Pansa, with over three decades of experience spanning healthcare, human services, private practice, and academia. Our guest, Dr. Linda Kongnetiman-Pansa is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Calgary and the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Social Work, and is recognized as a leader in policy and systems transformation. In her counselling practice, she centers people’s lived experiences, offering non-judgmental, compassionate support while working to bridge gaps between individuals and the systems meant to serve them. Together, we unpack how new immigrants can navigate government services, non-profit organizations, community resources, and informal networks, while preserving their identity, dignity, and emotional well-being. In this episode, we discuss: This episode is for new immigrants, newcomers, refugees, international professionals, and anyone supporting people through settlement and transition.

Introducing Am I the Asshole? Black Immigrant Edition! In this solo episode, Sarah kicks off the series with a wild story. A woman married to a Nigerian man shares her experience with her entitled Nigerian in-laws, and let me tell you… It is intense. Join Sarah on this ride as she reacts, breaks it all down, and shares her honest thoughts from a Black immigrant lens. Send your anonymous stories to this link ~ bit.ly/4rMTayO ~ for a chance to be featured in a future episode. If you loved this episode, don’t forget to follow Afros in the Diaspora on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok: @afrosinthediaspora Share this episode, tag us, and join this growing community!

In this special episode of Afros in the Diaspora, Calgary music exec Nii (co-founder of 3rd Verse Studio) and genre-blending hip-hop artist Tea Fannie share their journeys into music, their heritage, and the vision behind their new project LYFE (Lost Yesterday Found Eternity). We dive into the making of this city-inspired album and the Black creatives who shaped it. They also talk about the stories behind their names and the upcoming Jollof n Jam event on December 6th—a celebration of Afro-Caribbean culture. And yes, the Ghana–Nigeria banter is pure joy. Stream the LYFE Album: https://www.3rdverse.ca/lyfe. Get tickets to Jollof n Jam: https://www.thegrandyyc.ca/jollofnjam 3rd Verse Studio: https://www.3rdverse.ca/ Tea Fannie: https://teafanniemusic.com/home Nii Amah IG: https://www.instagram.com/sympho.nii/ Join the Afros in the Diaspora community: www.afrosinthediaspora.com

Todun is a certified personal trainer and the powerhouse behind Tone with Todun, a vibrant, community-driven fitness program. With years of experience and an unwavering passion for empowering others, she’s built a safe space where people can grow stronger—inside and out. Through her biweekly in-person classes and weekly online sessions, Todun helps clients of all levels build strength, boost confidence, and create a balanced lifestyle. Whether you’re brand new to fitness or ready to level up, her unique, motivating approach will inspire you to keep showing up for yourself. Episode Intro: In this deeply personal conversation, Todun opens up about her journey—both in fitness and in life. She shares candidly about her experiences growing up in a Nigerian household, the challenges she faced living with her parents, and the life-changing decision to go no-contact. Along the way, she also speaks on her immigration story, her passion for movement, and the heart behind her work. I invite you to listen with grace and kindness as she shares her truth and the lessons she’s learned in reclaiming her freedom and peace. Follow Todun below to stay in touch! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonewithtodun/ https://www.instagram.com/morountodun/ Subscribe now to never miss an episode. ----------- JOIN THE COMMUNITY Website - www.afrosinthediaspora.com. For Email Inquiries - hi@afrosinthediaspora.com https://www.instagram.com/afrosinthediaspora/ https://www.tiktok.com/@afrosinthediaspora https://x.com/aitd_podcast https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086475664595 https://www.threads.net/@afrosinthediaspora If you are a Black African or Caribbean immigrant and would like to be a featured guest on Afros in the Diaspora Podcast, please fill out this form - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc_FBCbzsgQnUEw1IZfBtvOwqPyW0e8okmKreCIZqae2ERp7g/viewform?usp=pp_url If you are a Black African or Caribbean immigrant and would like to be a featured guest on Afros in the Diaspora Podcast, please fill out this form - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc_FBCbzsgQnUEw1IZfBtvOwqPyW0e8okmKreCIZqae2ERp7g/viewform?usp=pp_url If you need advice or have a confession, fill in this anonymous form - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeYRw6eoxUC_2-aoebC67V2LVT9w_Pf-KtjlI-K57zfX1mGDA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Thandiwe Konguavi is a homeschooler and an award-winning journalist born in Zimbabwe and raised in Canada. She is a web writer and editor of First Person columns at CBC Edmonton. She is also the digital producer of CBC's docuseries, Black Life: Untold Stories on CBC Gem and CBC-TV. With her husband Elijah she has four precious children and is an elder of Forward in Faith Ministries International in Edmonton, Alberta and in Gobabis, Namibia. Join us in this episode as Thandiwe shares her immigration journey, her experiences working at CBC, and how she has reconnected with her African heritage through family and culture. We also explore the significance of her choice to raise her children in the motherland, fostering confidence in their identity and a deep connection to their African roots. Canadians are welcome to share their stories on CBC's First Person column. This is a paid opportunity to have your voice heard and your story shared. If you are interested in pitching your story, check out the FAQ page here! If you are based in Edmonton feel free to reach out to Thandiwe directly. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cbcthandiwe/ Subscribe now to never miss an episode. ----------- If you are a Black African or Caribbean immigrant and would like to be a featured guest on Afros in the Diaspora Podcast, please fill out this form - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc_FBCbzsgQnUEw1IZfBtvOwqPyW0e8okmKreCIZqae2ERp7g/viewform?usp=pp_url JOIN THE COMMUNITY Website - www.afrosinthediaspora.com. For Email Inquiries - hi@afrosinthediaspora.com Social Media - https://www.instagram.com/afrosinthediaspora/ https://www.tiktok.com/@afrosinthediaspora https://x.com/aitd_podcast https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086475664595 https://www.threads.net/@afrosinthediaspora

Join us for this episode as "Mama Dee" Dee Adekugbe draws the curtain back and brings awareness to the domestic and family violence statistics and realities in Canada. She also shares about her journey to creating a safe haven and free recovery facility for women, men and children facing domestic and family violence - Ruth's House and Mandela's House. Don’t forget to like, share, subscribe and leave a comment! Dee Adekugbe, widely known as "Mama Dee" or "Pastor Dee," is the Founder and Executive Director of Ruth’s House, a refuge dedicated to supporting African-descent families impacted by domestic violence. A Nigerian native raised in London, Dee's journey has been shaped by personal experiences with homelessness and abuse, which she overcame through resilience and community programs. An ordained minister, international speaker, and author, she co-founded All Woman Ministry in Calgary in 2005 to empower women and began a domestic violence awareness campaign, “I Choose Me Over Abuse,” during the COVID-19 pandemic. In February 2022, Dee established Ruth’s House, the first ethnocultural organization addressing domestic violence in Calgary's Black community, offering shelter and culturally tailored services. Expanding her mission, she launched Mandela House in July 2024, Calgary’s first emergency and transitional housing for Black men. With nearly 30 years of advocacy, Dee champions safety, healing, and community-based solutions rooted in faith and culture. A recipient of numerous accolades, including the 2024 Voice Community Impact Award and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, Dee describes herself as a "passionate and servant leader" committed to breaking the cycle of violence. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deeadekugbe/ https://www.instagram.com/ruthshousecanada/ Website: https://www.ruthshouse.ca/ Subscribe now to never miss an episode. ----------- If you are a Black African or Caribbean immigrant and would like to be a featured guest on Afros in the Diaspora Podcast, please fill out this form - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc_FBCbzsgQnUEw1IZfBtvOwqPyW0e8okmKreCIZqae2ERp7g/viewform?usp=pp_url JOIN THE COMMUNITY Website - www.afrosinthediaspora.com. For Email Inquiries - hi@afrosinthediaspora.com Social Media - https://www.instagram.com/afrosinthediaspora/ https://www.tiktok.com/@afrosinthediaspora https://x.com/aitd_podcast https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086475664595 https://www.threads.net/@afrosinthediaspora

Join us for this episode as T. Octavius takes on trivia and riddles while sharing his immigration journey, writing inspirations, and the ways his rich cultural heritage shapes his art and storytelling. Don’t forget to like, share, and leave a comment! Thulani Pasipamire, a published author also known as T. Octavius or simply Octavius, is of Zimbabwean and South African heritage. Born in Harare, Zimbabwe, he primarily connects with his Zimbabwean roots. After living in the United States, he has spent the majority of his life in Calgary, Canada. As an author, his goal is to become a New York Times Best Seller, with aspirations to adapt his books into films and later branch out into acting and other creative endeavors. Instagram: @thetoctavius Website: www.toctavius.com Subscribe now to never miss an episode. ----------- If you are a Black African or Caribbean immigrant and would like to be a featured guest on Afros in the Diaspora Podcast, please fill out this form - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc_FBCbzsgQnUEw1IZfBtvOwqPyW0e8okmKreCIZqae2ERp7g/viewform?usp=pp_url If you need advice or have a confession, fill in this anonymous form - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeYRw6eoxUC_2-aoebC67V2LVT9w_Pf-KtjlI-K57zfX1mGDA/viewform?usp=pp_url JOIN THE COMMUNITY - www.afrosinthediaspora.com For Email Inquiries - hi@afrosinthediaspora.com https://www.instagram.com/afrosinthediaspora/ https://www.tiktok.com/@afrosinthediaspora https://x.com/aitd_podcast https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086475664595 https://www.threads.net/@afrosinthediaspora

Join us on this heartwarming episode as Ebun recounts her experience as an illegal immigrant in America before relocating to Canada with her family and getting her papers. She shares her parents' story about how they came to be in that situation, and the hard work and sacrifices they made to keep the family safe and cared for. Like, share and leave a comment! Ebun Adewole is a Nigerian immigrant currently residing in Calgary, Alberta. She was born in Lagos, Nigeria and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, USA before immigrating to Alberta, Canada in 2012. Ebun completed a degree in communications at the University of Calgary, as well as a diploma in Broadcast News at SAIT Polytechnic. She currently works in oil and gas marketing, as well as owns a freelance marketing business named Wunmi Marketing. Feel free to reach out for all your marketing needs! Instagram: @ebuuun @wunmi.marketing Subscribe now to never miss an episode. And remember, our stories matter, they are powerful. ----------- If you are a Black African or Caribbean immigrant and would like to be a featured guest on Afros in the Diaspora Podcast, please fill out this GUEST FORM If you need advice or you have a confession, fill in this ANONYMOUS ADVICE FORM If you need financial advice as an immigrant, fill in this ANONYMOUS FINANCIAL ADVICE FORM JOIN THE COMMUNITY --- For Email Inquiries - hi@afrosinthediaspora.com https://www.instagram.com/afrosinthediaspora/ https://www.tiktok.com/@afrosinthediaspora https://x.com/aitd_podcast https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086475664595 https://www.threads.net/@afrosinthediaspora

On this hilarious episode, join us as Kome shares about his career as an engineer by day and a comedian/MC/writer by night. He opens up about how his personality as an introvert sometimes clashes with his creative career. Like, share and leave a comment! Kome hails from Nigeria but also spent many years growing up around the world in Oman, Holland, and the USA before settling for the snowy mountains of Canada. Kome is a seasoned comedian and MC based in Calgary. He has performed and hosted events all across Canada, from corporate events to personal celebrations. An engineer by day (don't hold that against him), he brings intelligence and precision to creating memorable experiences, thoughtfully guiding crowds through special moments with lots of laughs along the way. Reach out for your MC needs, he is available to travel! Instagram: @Koombstone Email: komeeto3@gmail.com Subscribe now to never miss an episode. And remember, our stories matter, they are powerful. ----------- If you are a Black African or Caribbean immigrant and would like to be a featured guest on Afros in the Diaspora Podcast, please fill out this GUEST FORM If you need advice or you have a confession, fill in this ANONYMOUS ADVICE FORM If you need financial advice as an immigrant, fill in this ANONYMOUS FINANCIAL ADVICE FORM JOIN THE COMMUNITY --- For Email Inquiries - hi@afrosinthediaspora.com https://www.instagram.com/afrosinthediaspora/ https://www.tiktok.com/@afrosinthediaspora https://x.com/aitd_podcast https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086475664595 https://www.threads.net/@afrosinthediaspora

Sherry, a beloved guest from Episode 7, returns to the podcast! In this episode, she joins host Sarah to discuss the pressures women and immigrants face from society, social media, and even well-meaning family members. Join us for a light-hearted conversation filled with relatable experiences and laughter, as we share tips on staying true to ourselves and finding joy in our journeys unapologetically. Sherry Buroker is a creative young professional, working as an actress in the voice, theatre, and film industry in Canada. With experience in video editing and scriptwriting, she brings various skills to her creative pursuits. Motivated by a desire to inspire others, Sherry is committed to demonstrating that dreams are achievable through persistent dedication to her creative career. Outside of her professional endeavours, she dedicates her free time to community engagement in her local community by volunteering at her church and participating in events focused on promoting and celebrating African culture. Follow Sherry on Instagram @sherryburoker Don't forget to share, rate and review today's episode. Subscribe now to never miss an episode. And remember, our stories matter, they are powerful. If you are a Black African or Caribbean immigrant and would like to be a featured guest on Afros in the Diaspora Podcast, please fill out this GUEST FORM If you need advice or you have a confession, fill in this ANONYMOUS ADVICE FORM If you need financial advice as an immigrant, fill in this ANONYMOUS FINANCIAL ADVICE FORM JOIN THE COMMUNITY --- Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Threads - @afrosinthediaspora X - @aitd_podcast For Email Inquiries - hi@afrosinthediaspora.com