Afros in the Diaspora

Afros in the Diaspora

por Sarah Uwadiae

Being an International Student in Asia with Thandi

Join us on this episode as Thandi shares her immigration story, the challenges and wins of her experiences as an international student studying Medicine in Malaysia while balancing parental pressures and expectations as she embraces her personal values and truths. Thandi Mphoka is an aspiring family medicine physician originally from Malawi. She is also an award-winning public speaker and educator, having won the Malaysian National Public Speaking Championship twice during medical school. Her experiences as a first-generation, international student and an immigrant herself have taught her to advocate for embracing your identity, living authentically, and using your voice to tell your story. She believes that stories are powerful enough to bring healing to our communities. Currently, she shares her journey, thoughts, and insights on her platform, Tea with Thandi. Follow Thandi on Instagram @tea.with.thandi ----------- 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

The Hustle Mindset with Macanjy

On this episode join us as Macanjy shares his immigration story. We dish on various jobs we have had as new immigrants like door-to-door sales, Skipthedishes and Instacart delivery to name a few. We discuss the hustle mindset of immigrants and how that evolves the longer a person settles in their new country. Come and laugh with us! Macanjy (JOLA) is a multimedia artist, storyteller, and curator. Originally from Nigeria, he now resides in Canada with his wife. His art has been showcased in exhibitions all over the country with a successful run of his solo exhibition "Diary of a Mad Black Woman," shedding light on the challenges faced by underrepresented women. Beyond his artistic practice, Macanjy possesses a captivating personality characterized by a deep appreciation for meaningful conversations, a penchant for storytelling, and a profound passion for the art of painting. Follow him on Instagram @macanjy ----------- 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

Being Black in New Zealand with Gerúsio

Join us on this episode as Gerúsio shares his story of how he migrated to New Zealand, his experience being Black there and the ways he integrates his cultural identity into his new community. Gerúsio Matonse, born and raised in Mozambique, works as a competitive swimming coach and sports manager, a role he has held for the past 15 years. He currently resides with his wife and two children in Wellington, New Zealand, a place they call home for the past eight years. He enjoys travelling, watching and playing sports, especially football (soccer), reading autobiographies, and listening to podcasts to learn about other immigrant stories. Follow him on Instagram @gerusiomatonse ----------- 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

Handsome & Funny with Grand Komanda

Join us on this hilarious episode as Grand Komanda shares his immigration journey and his Canadian comedic career thus far - the good, the bad, the victories and challenges as he prepares for his latest comic special on his biggest stand-up yet. Ofili Michael Chijindu, aka GRAND KOMANDA, is a Professional MC and STAND-UP COMEDIAN with over 15 years of Experience in providing humor and adding excellence to every single event he hosts. Born in Nigeria, Grand Komanda moved to Canada in June of 2019 and has since become the toast of the country with his eloquence and classic delivery of Spontaneous jokes, making him highly sought after. He convened the first African and Nigerian Comedy Club in Canada ( Sunday Night Comedy Club with GRAND KOMANDA), which started in November 2019. After that, he successfully staged comedy shows in Calgary, Toronto, and Edmonton. Grand Komanda is fondly referred to as Mr. Handsome and Funny in certain quarters, but most importantly, he is a delight to watch. In October 2022, he staged his first comedy special, GRAND KOMANDA HANDSOME & FUNNY. This summer (June 2024), he is back with another special titled MISCHIEVOUS, he will be performing for an hour long and will have some of his hilarious friends Alfred Kainga(USA), Ceey( USA), Davidsyn ( TORONTO), Sarah Stupar (CALGARY) kick off the show. ----------- 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

Strength in Community with Nyasha

As a Zimbabwean immigrant, Nyasha Nyamaka has always had a deep sense of curiosity about the world beyond her immediate community and her environment. Over the years, she has fostered a passion for exploring our shared humanity through the lens of culture via the arts, namely as a student of various Black dance art forms. In pursuit of a more PanAfrican global awareness, she hopes to use her infectious energy & sense of humour to moderate spaces where we can come together and have meaningful exchanges towards expanding our perspectives and perceptions of each other. Join us on this episode as Nyasha shares her immigration story, some culture shocks and being Black in Canada. She shares her experiences with rediscovering and reclaiming her Zimbabwean heritage and how she gives back to her family and the community that has anchored her. She also does a cute shoutout to her mother! Listen, learn and be inspired. Don't forget to laugh! Follow Nyasha on Instagram at @udadewethu ----------- 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

The Black History Month Effect with KtheChosen

KTheChosen is your Friendly Neighbourhood Rapper who creates music that is both entertaining and enlightening. K is a Zimbabwean-raised and Calgary-based artist who believes in the power of storytelling to share the experiences of those around him. His 2021 album, +Vice (pronounced "add vice") covered topics such as grief, feminism, and mental well-being. This community-focused album resulted in K being included in The Calgary Herald's Top 20 Compelling Calgarians list and a nomination for Rap Recording of the Year at the 2022 YYC Music Awards. He has recently introduced a new persona known as “Heartbreak K” through his last two EPs, titled IKR and IRL. Join us on this episode as K shares his immigration story, some culture shocks and being an artist in Canada. He shares about how he got into the music industry and his experience with tokenism especially during Black History Month. Listen, learn and be inspired. Don't forget to laugh! Follow KtheChosen on Instagram at @kthechosen | His website is kthechosen.com ----------- 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

More Culture Shocks & Poetry with Priscille

Priscille Bukasa, a Calgary-based spoken word artist and writer, draws inspiration from her roots in the Democratic Republic of Congo, infusing her work with the richness of her upbringing and culture. With over 14 years of captivating performances, Priscille's dynamic presence has graced diverse stages, from conferences to marketing campaigns. As a teaching artist, she leads poetry workshops across all grade levels and serves as an art facilitator at Arts Commons. Priscille is also a member of the Cultural Instigator, supporting artists in fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion through impactful projects confronting social issues. Join us on this episode as Priscille and Sarah dish about more culture shocks they experienced living in Canada. Priscille shares her immigration story and how she found her way into poetry and spoken word performances. Listen, learn and be inspired. Don't forget to laugh! Follow Priscille on Instagram at @priscillebuck ----------- 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

Young, Black & Blue: An Afrobop Journey with Idris

Idris Lawal's musical journey began to take shape during his upbringing in Nigeria and South Africa. It was during weekends and car rides in Lagos and Cape Town that he discovered the rich tapestry of musical influences that would shape his artistic path. He soaked in his dad's Afrobeat and highlife mixes during those rides and experienced the vibrant hip-hop and R&B soundtracks while watching Hollywood movies with his mom. Today, Idris Lawal continues to create what he refers to as "Gidibop" or "Afrobop" music. His unique sound is a fusion of hip-hop, R&B, Afrobeats, and Afro-house. Over time, he has released a collection of songs, showcasing his versatile talent and musical creativity. Join us on this episode as Idris shares his background and immigration story. He takes us on his journey of being an Afrobeat musician living in the diaspora, the influence of his parents and religion, and how his blackness has been influenced by the different spaces he has occupied. He shares some ups and downs of the industry and his re-imagining of Afrobeats while being respectful to its roots and message. He also shares some upcoming projects he has on the horizon. Listen, learn and be inspired. Don't forget to laugh! Follow Idris on Instagram at @idrisxlawal Here's Idris' website - http://idrisxlawal.com/ ----------- 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 on a situation you are experiencing, fill in this ANONYMOUS ADVICE FORM If you need financial advice as an immigrant, fill in this ANONYMOUS FINANCIAL ADVICE FORM If you need to get something off your chest, fill in this ANONYMOUS CONFESSIONS FORM Facebook | Instagram | Threads - @afrosinthediaspora X - @aitd_podcast | TikTok @afrosposcast For Email Inquiries - hi@afrosinthediaspora.com

Modeling as a Career with Evans

Evans Ofori-Amanfo born in Ghana is a model, actor, and writer. After living in Canada for most of his life, Evans moved from Toronto to Los Angeles to further his work and his future endeavours. Evans is an advocate for freedom of expression and living in your truth and authenticity. His syringoma which is a unique physical feature of Evans, pushes him to challenge the beauty standards. Evans intends to inspire and empower others to define their standards of what makes them beautiful and to walk in it, fearlessly. Evans wishes to empower others to chase their wildest dreams, spread love, and never settle for less in life. A philanthropist at heart, Evans's long-term goal is to build and provide a shelter (a place of refuge) for those in need of housing, especially migrant groups of the LGTBQ. Join us on this episode as Evans shares his immigration story, beginning his career as a model in Toronto and moving to Los Angeles for more opportunities. He talks about collaborating with other creatives, working with agencies, avoiding scams, body image and some challenges in the modeling industry. He also offers some tips for people who are interested in exploring modelling for fun or as a career. Listen, learn and be inspired. Don't forget to laugh! Follow Evans on Instagram at @evnsofori If you are an African/Black immigrant and would like to be a featured guest on Afros in the Diaspora Podcast, send a DM or email with the information below! Facebook | Instagram - @afrosinthediaspora For Inquiries - hi@afrosinthediaspora.com

Being Black in Ireland with Favour

Favour Odusola's journey in dance is a remarkable blend of passion, innovation, and dedication. From modest beginnings in Nigeria performing at local events, his zeal for dance burgeoned, leading him to pursue Theatre Arts at Redeemers University, where he specialized in African traditional and Contemporary dance. Under the mentorship of artists like Kaffy and Les Twins, Favour not only refined his craft but learned crucial lessons in strategic planning, resilience, and hard work, leading to his role within Kaffy's team at Imagneto Dance Company. On moving to Ireland, he witnessed the emerging Afro-dance scene and founded Umafam, a transformative dance training program and community hub promoting empowerment and positivity. Beyond dance, Favour's creative interests include acting and music, showcasing his multifaceted talent on stages and screens alike, including a notable stint as Jamie Foxx's stand-in on BEAT SHAZAM season 5. Gaining recognition for his contributions to cultural diversity, leadership, and artistic excellence, Favour's story is an inspiring tale of resilience, commitment and the transformative potential of dance, creativity, and endurance. Join us on this episode as Favour shares his immigration story, settling in Dublin and his experience as a dancer and creative in Ireland. He shares the ups and downs of his journey and his brave path to getting his immigration papers as an artist which is an incredible feat. Listen, learn and be inspired. Don't forget to laugh! Follow Favour on Instagram at @officialpak_ Follow Favour's dance and fitness company in Dublin, Ireland on Instagram @uma0fficial_ @umakoko_ Website - www.officialpak.art If you are an African/Black immigrant and would like to be a featured guest on Afros in the Diaspora Podcast, send a DM or email with the information below! Facebook | Instagram - @afrosinthediaspora For Inquiries - hi@afrosinthediaspora.com
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