In this insightful episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Oluwabunmi Ogungbe, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Groundbreaking research she conducted includes:

1. Migration-Related Weight Changes among African Immigrants in the United States

2. Acculturation and Cardiovascular Risk Screening among African Immigrants: The African Immigrant Health Study

3. Social determinants of hypertension and diabetes among African immigrants: the African immigrants' health study:

In the initial part of our conversation, Dr. Ogungbe shares her personal journey as an immigrant from Nigeria navigating America's educational and social systems. Most of our discussion focused on her groundbreaking research on the cardiovascular health of African immigrants in the United States. Ogungbe unpacks the connections among migration, lifestyle changes, stress, and their impact on cardiovascular health.

We explore how acculturation, food choices, underemployment, and discrimination can contribute to an increase in rates of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes among African immigrants. Dr. Ogungbe provides insightful, culturally tailored health interventions. Dr. Ogundge emphasizes the need for more research focused on African immigrant populations to understand their unique health needs and improve health outcomes.

Dr. Ogungbe discusses the difficulties that the generation members of our community face in participating in research, and she explains the importance of participating in research studies. She indicated that participation helps ensure that our real experiences, health needs, and challenges are accurately represented. When our community hesitates or avoids participating in studies, we must understand that the data collected shapes policies, healthcare practices, and resources available to our community. As she related during our conversation, incomplete data would reflect the realities of African immigrants regarding the kind of care they receive when it comes to health care. By showing up and engaging in research, you help create knowledge that can lead to better services, culturally informed interventions, and improved health outcomes. Our voices matter, and participating is one of the most potent ways to make sure they are heard.

Takeaways

Cardiovascular health is a critical issue for African immigrants in the U.S.

Migration impacts health through various factors like stress and access to care.

Cultural practices influence dietary habits and health outcomes.

Acculturation can lead to unhealthy lifestyle changes among immigrants.

Community support plays a vital role in health and well-being.

Preventive care is essential for managing chronic conditions.

Discrimination and isolation contribute to health disparities.

BMI may not accurately reflect health risks for diverse populations.

Tailored health interventions can improve health outcomes for African immigrants.

Participation in research is crucial for understanding and addressing health issues.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cardiovascular Health in Immigrants

03:35 Personal Journey and Migration Experiences

14:13 Challenges Faced by African Immigrants in the U.S.

20:19 The Sense of Possibility in America

22:20 Research Focus on Cardiovascular Health

26:49 The Importance of Distinct Data for African Immigrants

30:44 Acculturation and Its Impact on Health

32:16 Educational Attainment and Health Outcomes

34:50 Psychosocial Stressors and Health Implications

38:46 Cultural Influences on Health and Diet

45:44 The Impact of Stress and Discrimination on Health

52:40 Rethinking Health Metrics: The Case for BMI

01:01:40 Effective Health Interventions for African Immigrants

01:13:44 Community and Cultural Approaches to Health

Dr. Manka Nkimbeng, an Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health and a community-engaged nurse scientist. Dr. Nkimbeng is an African immigrant whose personal and professional journey fuels her research on health equity, aging, and dementia, especially among minority and immigrant older adults. Dr. Nkimbeng earned her Ph.D. in Nursing from Johns Hopkins University, a Master’s degree in Public Health from Boston University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She also completed the Robert L. Kane Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Minnesota.

Drawing from her studies “Where to Retire? Experiences of Older African Immigrants in the United States” and “All I Know Is That There Is a Lot of Discrimination,” Dr. Nkimbeng shares groundbreaking insights into how older African immigrants navigate complex questions of identity, belonging, and retirement in America.This conversation explores aging, migration, and the concept of belonging among the older generation of African immigrants in the United States.

Dr. Nkimbeng highlights the resilience of older African immigrants who continue to navigate two worlds. Whether you are an immigrant, a health professional, a policymaker, or a community advocate, this conversation offers valuable insights into how culture, discrimination, and community influence the aging experience in America.Together, we examine the factors that influence whether older African immigrants choose to remain in the U.S. or return to their countries of origin — from access to healthcare and family support to cultural identity and community connections. The conversation also delves into how discrimination, both institutional and interpersonal, impacts the mental and physical health of African immigrants as they age, and the coping strategies they use to survive and thrive.

The takeaways

Cultural engagement is vital for immigrant communities.

Navigating dual identities can be challenging for immigrants.

Discrimination often comes from within the community as well.

Family expectations play a significant role in academic success.

Building bridges between cultures enhances community support.

Research on African immigrants is often overshadowed.

Community-based participatory research is essential for effective studies.

Retirement decisions are influenced by notions of home.

Healthcare access is a critical issue for older immigrants.

End-of-life planning is often neglected in immigrant communities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Nkimbeng

04:17 Dr. Nkimbeng's Personal Journey and Identity

12:31 Cultural Values and Academic Success

17:49 Research Challenges and Community Engagement

23:49 Exploring the Concept of Home for Immigrants

28:54 Healthcare Access and Social Support

34:56 Cultural Identity and Belonging

41:17 Identity Formation and Cultural Integration

46:31 Challenges of Professional Identity and Respect

51:56 Community Engagement and the Importance of Connection

55:05 Understanding Racial Discrimination in Immigrant Experiences

01:04:10 Coping Mechanisms for Discrimination

01:12:15 Cultural Humility in Healthcare and Community Support

Introduction & Summary

Dr. Mercedes Okosi returned to the Pansa Pansa Podcast to introduce her newly published book to our listeners. Dr. Okosi is a psychologist and the author of a powerful new book, The Big Book of Boundaries for People Who Make Themselves Small. In this book, Dr. Okosi explores why so many of us struggle with setting limits, whether emotional, physical, or even with our time. She explained how reclaiming our boundaries is an act of self-worth. As the daughter of an African immigrant father from Nigeria and an African American mother, Dr. Okosi brings a unique cultural and professional perspective to this conversation. In this conversation, we discussed what inspired her to write the book, the different types of boundaries we need in our lives, and how assertive communication can transform our relationships. Dr. Okosi emphasizes the importance of assertive communication and understanding various kinds of boundaries—physical, intellectual, emotional, and material. The discussion also touches on cultural influences on boundary setting and the emotional costs of neglecting personal space. Dr. Okosi provides insights into how individuals can reclaim their space and prioritize their well-being through effective boundary management.

Takeaways

Setting boundaries is an act of self-worth.

Cultural influences significantly affect how boundaries are perceived and set.

Assertive communication is key to maintaining healthy boundaries.

There are different types of boundaries: physical, intellectual, emotional, and material.

Guilt often prevents people from setting necessary boundaries.

Empowerment comes from actively participating in one's own life.

It's important to communicate your boundaries clearly to others.

Boundaries are not just for personal protection but also for fostering healthy relationships.

Understanding the emotional costs of not setting boundaries is crucial.

Everyone deserves to prioritize their own needs and well-being.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Boundaries and Self-Worth

03:33 The Impact of Upbringing on Boundary Setting

08:04 Understanding the Book Title and Its Significance

10:03 Exploring Racial and Cultural Boundaries

11:39 Types of Boundaries: An Overview

15:56 Physical Boundaries: Everyday Examples

20:58 Intellectual Boundaries: Protecting Ideas and Values

23:43 Emotional Boundaries: Responsibility for Others' Feelings

29:41 Navigating Parenting and Individuality

30:51 Understanding Sexual Boundaries

34:32 Empowerment in Sexual Life

35:47 Cultural Contexts of Domestic Violence

37:50 Material Boundaries and Financial Obligations

41:03 Setting Limits on Time and Social Obligations

49:18 Assertive Communication Skills

51:57 Active Participation in Life

54:24 Shifting Focus to Self-Care

58:10 Introduction to PANSA PANSA Live Podcast

To be a parent to a child with special needs is an act of relentless love, but no parent should have to do it alone. When the systems fail to provide respite care or the services and support needed, the system dismisses the humanity of caregivers and the rights of children. Dr. Yewande Richards' advocacy is rooted in both lived experience and rigorous research. Her personal and professional experiences show that so much is at stake. What would it look like if policy truly valued the labor of mothers like her and not just in theory, but in tangible support?

Summary

Our discussion delves into the importance of community engagement, the barriers to accessing services, and the need for open conversations about children of immigrants with special needs and the family dynamics. Dr. Richards shares personal anecdotes and insights from her research on African immigrant mothers and their children with special needs, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by this community.

Bio:

Dr. Yewande Richards obtained her doctoral degree in 2024 from Walden University's School of Behavioral and Social Sciences. Her doctoral dissertation, conducted as a nationwide qualitative study, examined barriers to Respite Care Among African Immigrant Mothers of Children with Complex Needs. The purpose of this study was to understand access barriers to respite care services for these mothers and the role of race in potential disparities in access using a critical race theoretical lens. As Dr. Richards pointed out during our conversation, she was investigating this problem to help fill a knowledge gap in the human and social services fields related to identifying and tracking African immigrant children's complex health conditions and providing critically needed care and support for them and their families.

Ms. Richards also holds a Master of Public Administration from New York University and a degree in Biology from Berea College. She is a mother of 3 sons, one of whom has complex needs. She enjoys quiet living, nature, the arts, and exploring various cultures. She has also been a small business owner for nearly a decade.

Takeaways

The journey from Liberia to America was influenced by a mother's foresight.

Parental influence plays a significant role in shaping children's lives.

Cultural differences impact emotional expression and parenting styles.

Children of immigrants face unique challenges in navigating their identities.

Education and social life in college can be complex for immigrant students.

Research on African immigrant mothers highlights barriers to accessing services.

Community engagement is crucial for addressing the needs of immigrant families.

Understanding family dynamics is essential for supporting children with special needs.

Mental health discussions are often stigmatized in immigrant communities.

Collective action is necessary for advocating for immigrant rights and services.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Yewanda Richards and Her Journey

05:08 The Impact of Family and Cultural Background

08:20 Exploring Fatherhood and Its Challenges in African Families

10:59 The Immigrant Experience: Challenges Faced by Children

14:03 Understanding the Parent-Child Dynamic in Immigrant Families

17:04 Cultural Differences in Emotional Expression and Mental Health

19:37 Navigating College Life as an Immigrant Student

22:11 Research Focus: African Immigrant Mothers and Special Needs

25:15 Barriers to Respite Care for African Immigrant Families

30:57 Understanding Participation in Research

33:33 Advocacy and Community Engagement

36:01 Challenges in Research and Data Collection

39:12 Family Dynamics in African Immigrant Communities

41:57 Access to Healthcare and Services

44:49 The Importance of Respite Care

46:31 Barriers to Accessing Care

49:11 The Role of Community in Research

51:54 Cultural Competency and Advocacy

55:26 Empowerment and Collective Action

Dr. Otito Iwuchukwua is a brilliant organizational psychologist, an author, scientist, and educator. She is a member of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. She is a Pharmacist Scientist with a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, specialization in Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, from Temple University School of Pharmacy in Philadelphia.

Dr. Iwuchukwu, PhD, is on a mission to write books that help people connect with themselves, each other, and the world around them through stories. Her latest book, The Belonging Paradox, is a personal navigator’s guide to understanding oneself in relationship to others in various life spaces. Through individual belonging stories, research insights, and incisive reflection questions, the book encourages readers to perceive belonging and then beam it out into the world. When we belong to ourselves, no matter who we are or where we are, we can let go of the stories we tell ourselves as we reframe challenging interpersonal relationships. Otito believes that belonging is both personal and collective and is not an individual mission to be conquered. We need a community to reflect belonging fully. The Belonging Paradox helps readers see, in no uncertain terms, that if we truly learn to belong to ourselves, we can offer genuine belonging to others in our lives.

Summary

In this conversation, we explored the complex experiences of African immigrants in America, focusing on themes of migration, identity, and belonging. Dr. Otito Iwuchukwua shares her personal journey, discussing the challenges of cultural shock, navigating professional spaces, and the importance of mentorship. The discussion also highlights the significance of pharmacogenomics and the role of storytelling in fostering community and understanding. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the need for connection, cultural exchange, and the power of belonging in shaping the immigrant experience.

Takeaways

Dr. Otito Iwuchukwua the importance of belonging and identity.

Cultural shock is a common experience for immigrants adjusting to life in the U.S.

Navigating professional spaces can be challenging for immigrants, especially in predominantly white environments.

Pharmacogenomics is a field that studies how genetics affect drug responses.

Mentorship plays a crucial role in the success of immigrants in their professional journeys.

Racial dynamics in America can create barriers to belonging for immigrants and people of color.

The Belonging Paradox explores the complexities of feeling like an outsider.

Parents can help their children feel a sense of belonging by connecting them to their cultural roots.

Cultural exchange and storytelling can bridge gaps between different communities.

Chapters:

01:20 Exploring Migration and Identity

03:09 Dr. 'Otito Iwuchukwua Background and Family History

05:10 Motivations for Migrating to the U.S.

07:14 Emotional Aspects of Leaving Home

09:08 Cultural Shock and Adjustment in the U.S.

13:14 Finding Community and Belonging

16:04 Professional Journey in Pharmacogenomics

19:44 Understanding Genomics and Precision Medicine

22:00 Navigating Challenges as a Woman of Color in Science

27:31 Mentorship and Role Models in Academia

29:53 Navigating Professional Identity as an Immigrant

36:00 Understanding Racial Dynamics in the U.S.

44:23 The Concept of Belonging

55:59 Experiencing Liminal Spaces as Immigrants

01:00:10 Defining True Belonging

01:02:31 Nurturing a Sense of Belonging in Children

01:04:21 Cultural Connection and Identity

01:09:00 The Role of Home in Belonging

01:12:23 Navigating Intraracial Discrimination

01:15:04 Understanding Scarcity and Resource Dynamics

01:18:11 Empathy and Shared Experiences

01:22:15 Building Bridges Across Cultures

01:26:27 The Power of Storytelling and Community

To furtherconnect with Dr. Iwuchukwua please visit her website @ http://www.otitoiwuchukwu.com/

Migration is not just a change of geography, but it is a rebirth of self. Every immigrant, no matter race or cultural identity, carries two worlds with them. The world they left behind and the world they must learn to call home. In this episode, I have the chance to engage in a profound conversation with Mwangi Wanjao, a storyteller and writer from Nairobi, Kenya, now residing in Canada.

In this conversation, we explore challenges of migration, which includes identity, race, and the immigrant experience. Particularly, we focus on the challenges African immigrants face in predominantly white spaces. Mwangi shares his journey, cultural shocks, and the complexities of navigating dual identities while emphasizing the importance of authenticity and belonging. The discussion also touches on the impact of American racial discourse on Canada as well as the rest of the world, and the need for communities among diverse Black identities to address discrimination as well as their differences.

Mwangi Wanjau is a professional writer and blogger originally from Nairobi, Kenya, and now based in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. His work boldly explores themes of identity, equity, and global citizenship. With a passion for uplifting the Black community and elevating underrepresented voices, Mwangi is recognized as a top writer on Medium in the “Race” category. His essays often weave personal narratives with broader social critique, offering sharp reflections on the African diaspora experience, systemic inequities, and the personal journey of self-improvement.

Through the lens of digital storytelling, he has built a platform dedicated to empowering those who don’t feel seen—reminding readers that their stories, identities, and truths matter. Whether unpacking issues of race, migration, or personal growth, Mwangi writes with clarity, purpose, and an unshakable belief in the power of words to drive connection and change.

Takeaways

Mwangi Wanjao is a storyteller and writer from Nairobi, Kenya.

He explores themes of migration, identity, and race.

Cultural shock includes differences in social interactions and community.

Coded racism in Canada often manifests as surface-level friendliness.

Identity can feel performative when navigating different cultural spaces.

Names carry deep personal significance and can reflect identity struggles.

African immigrants face unique challenges compared to Black Canadians.

Community among Black identities can be complex and nuanced.

American racial discourse influences perceptions of racism in Canada.

Authenticity is crucial for asserting one's identity in a new country.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mwangi Wanjao and His Work

03:30 Journey from Nairobi to Canada

05:26 Expectations vs. Reality in a New Country

07:33 Cultural Shock and Early Experiences

12:08 Understanding Coded Racism in Canada

18:06 The Complexity of Code-Switching

23:28 The Significance of Names and Identity

24:23 Reclaiming Identity Through Names

28:11 Navigating Dual Identities in Canada

32:08 Community Dynamics Among Black Canadians

35:09 The Impact of American Racial Discourse

38:05 Understanding Intergroup Discrimination

41:57 Embracing Authenticity in a New Home

Links to articles on Medium:

https://medium.com/an-injustice/what-it-means-to-be-black-in-canada-95f003499ac3?sk=f2628ff5f35b3a19694540a792bf0e5d

https://medium.com/about-me-stories/too-foreign-here-too-local-there-877213227efe?sk=70b3efd6af749bdd0f48d232cbcb01ae

https://medium.com/an-injustice/i-stopped-using-my-white-name-with-white-people-d8dfa60de65d?sk=291ba9e36fb2c3f11c380533bf89c828

In this episode of the Pansa Pansa podcast, I had the privilege of having a conversation with Cedric Muhikira, a self-taught author who explores themes of identity, migration, and resilience in his new novel 'Libax'. During our discussion, we explored immigrant experience, cultural shocks, the duality of identity, and the importance of community and friendship as they relate to his personal experience and the character in his book. Muhikira also shares insights of his journey from Rwanda to the United States, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of immigrants as they navigate their new lives. Throughout our discussion, Muhikira emphasized the power of storytelling and encouraged the listeners to connect with immigrants' experiences through empathy.

Bio:

Cedric Muhikira is a self-taught author and storyteller known for his poignant exploration of identity, migration, and resilience. His debut novel, Libaax: Grow Your Roots Where You Land, follows the journey of Ayaan, a young Somali immigrant navigating life in Detroit while grappling with questions of belonging, family, and cultural duality. Drawing inspiration from his own experiences growing up between cultures, Cedric weaves rich narratives that resonate with readers from all backgrounds.

A passionate advocate for immigrant voices, Cedric blends literature and music, especially Somali qaraami and Detroit hip-hop, to create emotionally layered stories that celebrate cultural heritage while challenging societal boundaries. His characters are vividly human, shaped by their environments yet striving to define their paths. With a style that is lyrical, cinematic, and deeply empathetic, Cedric uses fiction as a way to explore the complexities of identity and the universal search for home.

Beyond writing, Cedric engages in cross-cultural dialogue through community workshops, speaking events, and collaborative arts projects that aim to uplift underrepresented narratives. He believes in storytelling as a tool for healing, connection, and transformation.

Keywords:

immigration, cultural identity, resilience, dual identity, community, adaptation, belonging, storytelling, African diaspora, literature

Takeaways:

The immigrant experience is filled with cultural shocks and adaptations.

Navigating dual identities can be challenging for immigrants.

The title 'Libax' symbolizes strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

Building a home in a new land requires patience and community support.

Immigrants often face struggles that are overlooked by those back home.

Friendship and community play a crucial role in the immigrant journey.

Writing can be a poetic expression of the immigrant experience.

Displacement can lead to a sense of belonging in unexpected places.

Cultural misunderstandings can complicate relationships for immigrants.

Music serves as a bridge between cultures and identities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cedric Muharra-Kira and His Work

02:56 The Journey of Ayan: Identity and Migration

06:53 Cultural Shock and Dual Identity

10:13 The Significance of the Title 'Libax'

12:17 Building Home: Friendship and Community

16:03 Navigating Professional Challenges as an Immigrant

19:09 The Poetic Style of Writing

21:18 Displacement and Belonging

24:57 Understanding Culture Shock

28:36 Assimilation and Identity Transformation

31:25 The Power of Shared Experience

33:38 Romantic Misunderstandings and Emotional Depth

40:04 The Importance of Community and Belonging

43:19 Messages of Resilience and Hope

46:04 Introduction to PANSA PANSA Live Podcast

What happens when the pressure to succeed collides with the weight of cultural expectations? In this robust conversation, I sat down with Mouhamadou B. Diagne, a Harvard-trained Muslim chaplain and scholar who, as a child immigrant, transitioned from not speaking English to becoming a leading voice for mental health advocacy in African immigrant communities.

Bio:

Mouhamadou Diagne immigrated to the US from Senegal as a child. Despite not initially speaking a word of English, he became fluent after only two months and distinguished himself as a high-high-achieving, engaged student. He would win the prestigious Posse Foundation Full-Tuition Leadership scholarship to study psychology and educational studies at Carleton College. While there, his work in the Chaplain’s Office led him to pursue a calling in College Chaplaincy. His first stop was pursuing a Master of Divinity at Harvard Divinity School, with a concentration in Islam and African Religions. He wrote a thesis detailing a plan for counseling Muslim African Immigrants in the United States. In the decade since graduation, Mouhamadou has held ground-breaking chaplaincy positions at Columbia and Bucknell Universities before transitioning to a career in admissions and DEI, serving as the inaugural Chief Diversity Officer at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine, and currently a Multicultural Outreach and Recruitment specialist at Fitchburg State University in MA. He recently founded his own consulting company, offering Muslim wedding and relationship counseling services.

Summary

In this conversation, Muhamadou Diagni shares his journey as a Muslim chaplain and advocate for mental health within African immigrant communities. He discusses the complexities of navigating dual identities as an African and Black individual in America, the cultural dynamics that shape these experiences, and the mental health challenges faced by African immigrants. Diagni emphasizes the importance of community support, the role of faith in mental health, and the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues. He advocates for greater awareness and understanding of mental health within African immigrant households, encouraging individuals to seek help and support.

Takeaways

Muhamadou Diagni emphasizes the importance of community support in navigating dual identities.

He highlights the unique mental health challenges faced by African immigrants, including acculturative stress.

The conversation addresses the cultural dynamics between African and African-American communities.

Diagni discusses the role of faith in mental health and the importance of integrating religious beliefs into counseling.

He advocates for breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in African immigrant communities.

The need for more mental health resources and awareness is stressed throughout the conversation.

Diagni shares personal experiences of navigating identity conflicts and the impact on mental health.

He encourages younger generations to seek help and prioritize mental well-being.

The conversation highlights the importance of understanding cultural differences in mental health treatment.

Diagni calls for greater empathy and solidarity among different cultural groups.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Muhamadou Diagni

02:45 Navigating Dual Identities as an Immigrant

09:52 The African vs. African-American Dynamic

12:11 Cultural Straddling: Balancing African and Black Identities

18:04 Racism Within the Muslim Community

23:28 The Intersection of Culture and Religion

30:03 Choosing Carleton College: A Personal Journey

34:44 Navigating Academic Challenges and Mental Health

40:55 Cultural Stigma and Mental Health in Immigrant Communities

52:02 Acculturative Stress and Mental Health Issues

55:16 Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health

01:00:40 Integrating Faith and Mental Health Support

01:05:46 Empowering the Younger Generation for Mental Health Advocacy