Conversations

Raina Otoun & Teku Njikta
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Critical discussions presented by and for African Immigrant communities living in Minnesota. Led by artists Raina Otoun and Teku Njikta.

Episodes

  1. Aug 8

    Decompressing from a Winter of Occupation and Resistance

    This episode features a community conversation led by mental health advocate, storyteller, and podcaster Raina Otoun. Participants reflect on their experiences navigating the pressures of Metro Surge, the racial dynamics that emerged during that period, and the lasting effects that continue to shape their lives and communities. At the request of the participants, speakers remain anonymous as they share deeply personal stories of vulnerability, fear, resilience, and the difficult decisions they faced in the months that followed.

    Decompressing from a Winter of Occupation and Resistance

  2. Aug 8

    Mental Health Impacts on African Immigrant Men

    This episode features Raina Otoun, mental health advocates Kate and Victor and guests Robin, Bhavana and Mickies.  This round table discussion focused primarily on the impact of depression and anxiety as experienced by African immigrant men living in the U.S. and ways they can seek support in a culturally sound manner.

  3. Aug 6

    African Immigrant Youth Reflections

    This session is will serve as a “kitchen table” talk with a deep felt conversation about what it means to navigate shifting societal norms within immigrant communities.  IP artist Raina Otoun will facilitate the conversation with support from community leader Victor Obisakin and youth Azomali and & Kadesha.  Their reflections touch on immigration, the stressors immigrants face, and the connected bonds that still exist between Africa and life in the United States.

    African Immigrant Youth Reflections

  4. 05/25/2025

    Healing in the Midst of Conflict

    Healing in the Midst of Conflict is designed to evoke the comforting spirit of village gatherings during times of conflict—where elders would share stories, drums would echo through the night, and younger generations would find peace and strength in the wisdom passed down. The stories touch on immigration, the stressors immigrants often face, and the connected bonds that still exist between Africa and life in the United States.  Our first guest in this series is Ifrah Mansour, an award-winning writer and playwright.  She is also an educator and Somali refugee. Her work explores trauma through the eyes of children, highlighting the resilience of Black, Muslim, and refugee communities. Her work has been featured by Middle East Eye, BBC, Star Tribune, and City Pages.  This episode was recorded in front of a live audience on April 26th, 2025.  Subsequent Q&A and spotlight bonus excerpts will be added in the coming weeks.  All episodes within this series are intended for international distribution to African nations.

    Healing in the Midst of Conflict
  • 4 Episodes

About

Critical discussions presented by and for African Immigrant communities living in Minnesota. Led by artists Raina Otoun and Teku Njikta.

Information

  • Creator
    Raina Otoun & Teku Njikta
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    4
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Conversations