Japa Diaries Podcast
Japa Diaries is a podcast that documents the experiences of African immigrants living abroad. The term 'japa' is Nigerian slang for emigrating. The show features stories and conversations about the immigrant journey, hosted by Japa Diaries. It is available on Acast.
Episodes
Intercultural Love, Afrobeats & The Japa Dilemma
We officially made it to the end of Season 5!For our season finale, we're debating the biggest questions and recurring dilemmas that defined our year.Can you realistically build a life between two countries? Should Afrobeats have its own space or compete on the global stage? And when it comes to love, money, and community, what are we willing to compromise on?Thanks for rocking with us this se
We Deserve Our Own African Epic Fantasies ft. Ponle Oluwole
What if Yoruba mythology got the epic fantasy treatment? Ponle Oluwole joins us to talk about Àyànmọ́: Ìbẹ̀rẹ̀, his Yoruba-inspired fantasy novel, and why he wanted to create the kind of expansive African fantasy story he wished he had growing up. We get into Yoruba mythology, the way African spirituality has been demonized and misunderstood, and what it means to see your culture treated as somet
Dating Across Cultures: Can Love Really Conquer All?
What happens when love crosses cultures?Sule and Kate met through soccer, fell in love, and eventually had to figure out what their relationship looked like alongside different cultures, religions, family expectations, and parenting styles.They get real about the conversations, compromises, and boundaries it took to build a life together. Plus, why loving each other was only the beginning... Hoste
The Odyssey
Hi guys! We’re taking a little break from our regularly scheduled programming this week, but we’re not leaving you without something good to listen to 👀While we’re away, check out Popcorn for Dinner, a podcast for people who love a good debrief with friends after watching their favorite TV shows or movies.We’re especially excited to introduce you to their episode on The Odyssey. Give it a listen,
The Real Cost of Making It Abroad
You made it abroad, now everyone needs something from you 😅Fritz joins us for a very real conversation about black tax, family expectations, and the pressure that can come with being “the one who made it.” He shares his journey from Ghana to the U.S., from a full-ride scholarship and multiple campus jobs to building a career in software engineering.We get into sending money home, guilt, boundaries
Surviving Biafra: The War We Still Don’t Talk About
What happens when your family history is tied to one of the most painful chapters in Nigeria’s history? In the case of filmmakers Leke and Meji Alabi-Isama, they made a documentary about it.Leke and Meji join us to talk about their 2026 BBC documentary, Surviving Biafra, which explores the Nigerian Civil War through the stories of people who lived through it — including their own dad and grandfath
A Japada Story
What happens when you’ve built a life abroad… then realize you want to go home? This week we're sitting down with Desola to talk about her journey from Nigeria to the UK, and eventually, back home again. We talk about career, the realities of moving back home, and why sometimes Japa really can be a round trip. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Don't Worry, I'm a Nigerian ft. Sayo Osikoya
We’re joined by Sayo aka Koj (or Shasco, depending on who you ask 😂) of Submarine and a Roach to talk about his Japa journey from Nigeria to Canada, the loneliness that can come with building a life abroad, and why a good salary doesn’t always equal a good life.We get into identity, community, comedy, and how finding your people (and something that gives you purpose) can make a place start to feel
Is Japa Still Worth It?
We’re back and we’re kicking off season five by asking: what happens when Japa doesn’t feel like a one-way trip anymore?Abimisola and Malik catch up on their own Japa journeys, returning home, changing immigration rules, and the growing desire to keep one foot here and one foot there. Plus, we’re talking Lagos, “touching soil,” aging parents, and what it really means to have options.And because Ja
Living Between Worlds: Akinola Davies Jr on Migration, Identity & Grief
Filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr. left Nigeria at 13 and didn't return for 9 years. In this conversation, he shares what it's like to live between Nigeria and the UK, why he finally made a film about his father, and how creating My Father's Shadow became a healing journey for his entire family.🎬 My Father's Shadow is in U.S. theaters now, support African storytelling: mubi.com/myfathersshadow Hosted on
Are You Checking Out?
Even when we’re out of season, we’re still bringing you good content! In this bonus crossover episode, Abimisola guest hosts Culture Custodian’s Uncultured podcast, diving into the history of japa in Nigeria. We thought you’d enjoy this one. And if you do, be sure to check out more episodes from Uncultured!----------------------------Roses are red, our passports are green, ‘Japa’ is migration to a
What a Season!
It’s a wrap on this season of Japa Diaries! 🥳 In this finale episode, we reflect on the highs, the lessons, and the laughter that made this season so special. From identity and home to Afrobeats and activism, it’s a mix of real talk, cultural gems, and love for our community.Tune in for laughs and reflections as we close out another unforgettable season! 💚💚 Enjoyed the season? Leave us a review, i
Staying Rooted While Going Global ft. M.I. Abaga
We’re catching up with rap legend M.I. Abaga! From his U.S. college days to shaping African hip-hop back home, M.I. talks living between two worlds, connecting African creatives, and staying grounded through it all.M.I also teases his upcoming album The Wolf and reminds us why authenticity will always be his superpower. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
From Tuition Stress to Scholarships
Being an international student can be tough... and expensive. In this episode, we talk to John, co-founder of the African Leadership Bridge, about turning his own struggles into a scholarship fund for African students. Then, we hear from Usomine, a current ALB scholar, about how this support is shaping her education and future impact.Ready to give back? Donate to ALB’s endowment fund here: tr
This is a Pan-African Podcast ft. Postcards from Koko
This week, Koko joins us to talk all things Pan-Africanism!From its historic roots to the challenges of unity today, we talk diaspora identity and why staying connected to African news and stories matters now more than ever.Tickets for Press Play game night are on sale now: posh.vip/e/press-play-independence-edition Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Behind the Scenes of Our First Live Show
We did it! Our first-ever live event was a success, and we can’t thank you enough for showing up and showing love.In this episode, we recap the highs and lows: from ticket-sale nerves to the epic games and the joy of building community in person. Whether you were there in-person or missed it, come relive the energy with us! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're Recovering from our Event, See you Next Week!
No new episode this week, we’re still recovering from our very successful community event!Thank you to everyone who came out, we had a timee! If you missed it, don’t worry, we’re sharing all the details in next week’s episode. In the meantime, catch up on past episodes and we’ll see you soon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
When Parents Say You’ve Changed
What happens when immigrant parents and kids try to meet in the middle?This week, we’re talking about parents. Immigrant parents, to be exact. How do we balance respect for their sacrifices with the need to live our own lives?We sit down with our Aunty Tayo, a Nigerian mom and doctor, to talk about cultural expectations, independence, and the beauty (and messiness) of intergenerational relationshi
Afrobeats to the World: A Year in Review ft. Deji Osikoya
Afrobeats had a massive year, and we’re breaking it all down in this lively “year in review” episode! We chat about unforgettable moments, our songs of the summer, and what’s next for Afrobeats as trends shift and expand worldwide. Plus, Deji shares a curated playlist of songs you need to have on repeat. P.S. Our Austin event is less than 2 weeks away, grab your ticket now! Hosted on Ac
Homecoming: What It Means to Return
This week on Japa Diaries, Timilehin shares his homecoming story returning to Nigeria after 15 years in the U.S. From the grief of losing his grandmother to reconnecting with family, this episode explores identity, belonging, and what it truly means to go home.Early bird tickets to our game night event are almost gone! Cop yours (and your +1s) now: japadiaries.com/event----------------------------
Language Loss & Revival ft. Jalil Anibaba & Awujo
We’re talking language loss, revival, and cultural pride with Jalil Anibaba and Oju, creator of Awujo. Hear how Yoruba speakers and learners in the diaspora are keeping the language alive through community, curiosity, and creativity.And because you know we can’t resist a little fun, we play a Yoruba-themed game by Awujo which was equal parts competitive and humbling.Our listeners get 10% off the e
Weddings Are a Lot, Especially as an Immigrant
We’re kicking off Season Four with real talk about the immigrant experience! From wedding planning to visa troubles, we’re catching you up on life since Season Three.We dig into why accountability matters when building something bigger than ourselves, and share why destination weddings might just be the secret to sidestepping cultural chaos.Oh, and our first-ever community game night is coming up!
S3Finale: Season Highlights, Going Viral + Season 4 Update
And that's a wrap on season 3!In this special episode, we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, revisiting each of our incredible episodes from this season. We also pull back the curtain and share exclusive BTS moments, including the thrilling high of going viral.And what’s a finale without a glimpse into the future? We’re excited to discuss our ambitious plans for Season 4, including how we’re
S3E10: Navigating Immigration and Identity Through Art ft. UzoArt
In this episode, we sit down with the incredible Uzo Art to discuss her journey moving to the US at just six years old. Uzo opens up about the challenges of assimilation and a period where she almost lost herself. We also explore her unique perspective, connecting with both first-generation Americans and recent immigrants. Through it all, Uzo has managed to stay true to her authentic self, ch
S3E9: Demystifying the U.S. Immigration System ft. Diallo Law Group
Japa Diaries is going professional! Tune into our conversation with Aisa Diallo, Esq. from Diallo Law Group, as she breaks down the U.S. immigration system. We discuss U.S. immigration policies, common issues African immigrants encounter, and several viable paths to citizenship. Aisa also shares expert tips for navigating the immigration system. Whether you're an immigrant or just curious about im
S3E8: Pursuing a Non-Traditional Career Path ft. Naija Comm
In this inspiring episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Eno, the amazing founder of Naija Comm! Eno shared her incredible journey, from her lifelong passion for creating to building a successful career as a creative entrepreneur. We also dove deep into the heart and soul behind Naija Comm and its mission to uplift African creatives and entrepreneurs who don't want the traditional 9-5 life.
Mid-season Update: Immigration Q&A Coming Soon, Donation Matching, and Catch-Up Week!
We're taking a mid-season break and will return next Tuesday with more amazing content! Meanwhile, get excited for our upcoming episode featuring a US immigration lawyer ready to answer your questions. DM your queries to @japa.diaries on Instagram for a chance to be featured! We're still matching donations for Sudan and the DRC—thank you to everyone who has contributed so far. There's still time t
S3E7: A Pan-African Experience in South Africa
In this episode, we sit down with Loïc, a passionate Burundian who made the big move to South Africa to study at the prestigious African Leadership Academy. We dive into Loïc's life in Burundi, his experiences living among other Africans, and our shared dreams for a Pan-African utopia. We also get into a lively discussion about why some Nigerians might find it tough to connect with other Africans.
S3E6: A Journey to Italy Through Libya and the Mediterranean Sea
In this episode, we sit down with a courageous Mercy who shares her incredible journey from Nigeria to Italy. She opens up about her upbringing in Nigeria, the challenges she faced traveling through Libya, and the perilous Mediterranean crossing. Tune in to hear about her resilience, the reality of seeking asylum, and how she’s building a new life in Italy.Trigger Warning: This episode includes di
S3E5: US Student Immigration 101
What happens when you miss out on the H1B visa lottery? This week Feyi shares his personal US immigration journey, from navigating the complexities of US visa options to the disappointment of not securing the H1B visa. We also discuss why he ultimately chose to relocate to Canada.We're matching donations! Support the people of DRC and Sudan at gofundme.com/f/japa-sudan-drc.Join our African immigra
S3E4: Maintaining long-distance friendships
This week we're joined by our own personal besties Folarin and Isioma to discuss maintaining long-distance friendships. We discuss the origin and evolution of our friendships, friendship rankings and how we've managed to stay connected even though we're miles apart. An episode full of banter, tea spilling and lots of laughs.Find friendship and connection on Instagram and TikTok
S3E3: Afrobeats to the world ft. Deji Osikoya (Part Two)
Wrapping up our conversation with Deji Osikoya on Afrobeats to the world! We talk about Deji's time at Chocolate City Records in the Love Nwatiti era, the current global recognition for afrobeats, and his thoughts on the future of the genre.Support our African brothers and sisters in Sudan and DRC at gofundme.com/f/japa-sudan-drc.We want to hear from you, follow us on Instagram and
S3E3: Afrobeats to the world ft. Deji Osikoya (Part One)
This week Deji Osikoya joins us to discuss the Afrobeats to the world movement! We talk about the crossover attempts starting from the early 2000s, the influence of Afrobeats giants like 2Face, D'banj and P-Square, and the role of social media in its ultimate success. Donate to our African brothers and sisters in Sudan and DRC at gofundme.com/f/japa-sudan-drc.Join our immigrant community on Instag
S3E2: Curating community spaces
This week we had the pleasure of speaking to Kehinde about curating community spaces! We talk about the role community played in his upbringing, his search for a community in the US, and how he's creating physical spaces for others to find their community.Looking for a community? Join ours on Instagram and TikTok!Donate to our larger African community at gofundme.com/f/japa-sud
S3E1: Homecoming trip, absentee weddings + supporting DRC and Sudan
We're back!! Malik and Abimisola catch us up on life after season 2 wrapped. We talk Abim's visit to Nigeria after 5 years, an absentee wedding and how we're supporting DRC and Sudan this season.Donate to our fundraiser at gofundme.com/f/japa-sudan-drc.Join our African immigrant community! Follow us on Instagram and TikTok.New episodes every Tuesday! Go ahead and subscribe -- y
Season 3 is on its way...
Hello Japa Diaries Fam! We didn't forget about you, we promise. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 FINALE
Is the season over already?! On this season finale episode, Malik and Abimisola recap their season two episodes. We also reveal some inner gist and when you can expect season 3.Thank you for rocking with us for another season! Make sure to subscribe so you know when season 3 drops. And finally, join our African immigrant community on Instagram @japa.diaries -- you know you want to. Hosted on Acast
S2 E9: The Canadian experience ft. @AfricalypsoPod
We love a good crossover episode! This week we talked to the ladies of Africalypso podcast about their Canadian immigrant experience. We discuss their individual japa stories, Canada's immigration process, and if Canada feels like home.This week's Q&A: Does the diaspora feel like home for you? Let us know in our Spotify poll!New episodes every Tuesday! Go ahead and subscribe -- we know
S2 E8: Receiving African Immigrants ft. @Jalil_Anibaba4
You know that one cousin/aunt/family-friend you stay with when you first migrate? This episode is about them. This week we spoke with Jalil, our very own family host, about his experience growing up in that household. Spotify poll: As an immigrant yourself, would you host other incoming immigrants?Join our African immigrant community! Follow us on Instagram and TikTok (@japa.diaries)
Japa Diaries - Trailer
Welcome to Japa Diaries! If you like what you listen to today, go ahead and subscribe -- we know you want to 😌 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 E7: Moving home for boarding school
On this episode Tamilore shares her experience going to Nigeria for boarding school. We discuss growing up in ATL, getting "home training," and that one time Abimisola punished her in secondary school 🤭Spotify listeners: who do you think was a worse senior-- Malik or Abimisola? Vote in the poll below!Join our immigrant community! Follow us on Instagram and TikTok (@japa.d
S2 E6: The Black diaspora wars
This week we're discussing the "diaspora war" between Africans and Black Americans in the US. We talk about our shared ancestry, using racial slurs and how Africans can be better allies. Special thank you to our guest Femi for being a part of the conversation.Spotify listeners: We want to hear from you, vote in the polls below!You can now send us your japa story to be featured on the
S2 E5: A Japa Love Story
An episode for the romantics out there... This week we talked to Angel & Mayowa about relocating with your partner. We discussed what prompted their relocation, surviving long-distance relationships, and the gushy details of their London Heathrow reunion 🫶🏾Spotify listeners: Would you move for love? Vote in the poll below!You can now send us your japa story to be featured on the podcast! Send
S2 E4: Raising children in the diaspora
This week we talked to Feyi (aka Mummy Kofi) about raising her Nigerian-Ghanian children in the U.S. We discuss her parenting expectations, sending her kids to boarding school, and instilling African pride in her children.Spotify listeners: Would you send your children to school back home? Vote in the poll below!You can now send us your japa story to be featured on the podcast! Send us a voice
S2 E3: Adulting in the diaspora ft. @TheOdditty
Sofi aka The Odditty stopped by to discuss coming of age in the diaspora, clashing societal expectations, and chasing her Disney channel dreams 💫Spotify listeners: If you never migrated, do you think you'd be the same person you are today? Take part in our poll!You can now send us your japa story to be featured on the podcast! Send us a voice message or DM us @japa.diaries on Instagra
S2 E2: My name is Joke but you can call me Ashley
This week we're joined by Joke/Ashley to discuss changing your name when you move abroad, how each name brings out a different personality, and what we gain/lose by changing our names.Spotify listeners: Are you a part of #TwoNameGang? Take part in our poll!You can now send us your japa story to be featured on the podcast! Send us a voice message or DM us @japa.diaries on Instagram and Tik
S2 E1: Longing for a home that once was
We missed you guys!! On this episode Malik and Abimisola fill us in on life between podcast seasons, missing their home country, and what to expect this season. Question for our Spotify listeners: do you miss your home country? Take part in our poll below!Let's be honest, you enjoyed this episode. Good news: you get to listen every Tuesday! Go ahead and subscribe -- we know you want to. You ca
S1 FINALE: To japa or not to japa?
And that's a wrap on season 1! This week, Malik and Abimisola recap the discussions we had this season. We reminisce on our favorite episodes, discuss when listeners can expect season 2, and answer the burning question-- to japa or not to japa? Spotify listeners, we want to hear from you! To japa or not to japa? Tell us below!Thanks for being our day 1 listeners. Follow us on Instagram and Ti
S1 E10: My visa expired, what now?
This week we talk to Funto about moving back to Nigeria after his student visa lapsed. We discuss his time in America, why he decided to move back home and what comes next for him. Enjoyed the episode? Go ahead and subscribe -- we know you want to.Want to keep the conversation going? Follow us on Instagram and TikTok! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E9: Nigeria's Japa Crisis
It's time to talk about the elephant in the room... This week we talked to a young Nigerian couple about their decision to leave the country. We discuss why so many Nigerians are making the move right now and what they hope to gain from their new home. Spotify listeners, what do you think about Nigeria's Japa Crisis? Answer in our poll below!Welcome to the Japa diaries fam! Go ahead and su
S1 E8: Moving to America made me depressed
This week, Ivorian-Nigerian influencer Faikat joined our discussion on how relocating affected our mental health. We opened up about our experience with anxiety and depression, seeing a therapist for the first time, and how we're coping now. Spotify listeners, have you ever been to therapy? Tell us below!Enjoyed the episode? Go ahead and subscribe -- we know you want to.Want to keep the conve
S1 E7: Yes, we have an accent.
This week we're talking all things code-switching with Ethiopian content creator, Hewan. We discuss how we got our American accents, switching between languages/accents, and A LOT more!Spotify listeners, how would you describe your accent? Tell us below!Welcome to the Japa diaries fam! Go ahead and subscribe -- we know you want to.Want to keep the conversation going? Follow us on Instagram an
S1 E6: My soulmate must have an American passport
This week we talked to Cynthia Moka about all things dating after relocating. Listen to our takes on dating outside of your race/ethnicity, dating for papers, and more! Spotify listeners, have you ever dated outside your race/ethnicity? Answer in our poll below!Welcome to the Japa diaries fam! Go ahead and subscribe -- we know you want to. Join the conversation and follow us on Instagram and
S1 E5: Being Black for the first time
We talk with Marcel, a Nigerian HBCU grad and Sigma man about identifying as Black in the U.S. We discuss identify crises, pledging fraternities and the "Diaspora Wars"Welcome to the Japa diaries fam! Go ahead and subscribe -- we know you want to.Want to keep the conversation going? Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @japa.diaries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E4: America made us feminists
Hosts Malik & Abimisola discuss how relocating to the U.S. changed their views on feminism, beauty standards and men's role in dismantling the global patriarchy.TW: we talk about sexual harassment and assault (19:51 - 23:45; 31:23 - 32:49)Enjoyed this episode? Go ahead and subscribe -- we know you want to.Want to keep the conversation going? Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @japa.diaries Host
S1 E3: Africa's Next Top Model
In this episode, we talked with Salimata Sanfo about choosing an alternative career path. We talked her Kenyan and Burkinabé roots, modeling for Telfar, and her parents' reaction to seeing her in Vogue.New episodes every Tuesday! Go ahead and subscribe -- we know you want to.Want to keep the conversation going? Follow us on Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for mor
S1 E2: Why we're leaving Nigeria... again
It's Japa 2.0 for our guests, FK and Simi of F&S Uncensored Podcast. We talk moving from Lagos to London, London to Lagos, and Lagos to London again. Yes, it's complicated. It will make sense after you listen.Enjoyed this episode? Go ahead and subscribe -- we know you want to.Want to keep the conversation going? Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @japa.diaries Hosted on Acast. See acast.co
S1 E1: What's it like being an African Immigrant?
In this first episode, meet your hosts/sibling duo Malik and Abimisola. We discuss our experience moving from Nigeria to the U.S., personal mishaps, and lessons learned. Let's be honest, you enjoyed this episode. Good news, there's a lot more coming soon! Go ahead and subscribe -- we know you want to. Want to keep the conversation going? Follow us on Instagram and TikTok, @japa.diaries H
