Afros in the Diaspora

Sarah Uwadiae

Afros in the Diaspora is a podcast that provides a brave and welcoming space for African and Black immigrants to come together, chat, vent, laugh and share their stories and experiences of life in the diaspora. Join Sarah and her guests as they explore the highs and lows of immigrant life, offering a voice and a community of support and hope to those who have already made new homes far from their places of origin and those who plan to make the leap.

  1. Housing 101 for Immigrants: Renting, Buying & Knowing Your Rights | Realtor Rose Lokiru

    JAN 20

    Housing 101 for Immigrants: Renting, Buying & Knowing Your Rights | Realtor Rose Lokiru

    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 Renting vs buying: how to decide what’s right for youYour rights and protections as a tenant in CanadaHow to identify rental scams and unfair landlord practicesWhen and how to prepare for buying a homeGovernment programs and incentives for first-time buyersWhat documents lenders look for in mortgage approvalSaving strategies for a down paymentRent-to-own, co-ownership, and alternative paths to homeownershipCommon first-time buyer mistakes — and how to avoid themAbout 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.

    1h 3m
  2. Accessing Social Support as New Immigrants: Identity, Dignity & Stability with Dr Linda Kongnetiman-Pansa

    12/16/2025

    Accessing Social Support as New Immigrants: Identity, Dignity & Stability with Dr Linda Kongnetiman-Pansa

    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: What social support really means when settling in a new countryHow to access government and non-profit services without shame or fearThe emotional and mental health impacts of migration and transitionMaintaining identity and dignity while navigating new systemsThe role of community, culture, and personal agency in building stabilityWhen and how to ask for help—and why it mattersThis episode is for new immigrants, newcomers, refugees, international professionals, and anyone supporting people through settlement and transition.

    1h 6m

About

Afros in the Diaspora is a podcast that provides a brave and welcoming space for African and Black immigrants to come together, chat, vent, laugh and share their stories and experiences of life in the diaspora. Join Sarah and her guests as they explore the highs and lows of immigrant life, offering a voice and a community of support and hope to those who have already made new homes far from their places of origin and those who plan to make the leap.