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. Family Law 101: Myths About Divorce, Custody & Separation - Part 2 | Family Lawyer Lucy Diale Mewanu

    Apr 21

    Family Law 101: Myths About Divorce, Custody & Separation - Part 2 | Family Lawyer Lucy Diale Mewanu

    In Part 2 of this conversation, Sarah Uwadiae and family lawyer Lucy Diale Mewanu go deeper into the real-life consequences of separation in immigrant families, with a special focus on spousal sponsorship and the myths that keep many women feeling trapped. Lucy shares powerful case examples where partners left without warning, moved provinces, or started new relationships while still legally married, leaving the other spouse to navigate custody, finances, and immigration fears alone. She explains what actually happens legally when someone “just leaves,” how courts respond, and why waiting in silence can make situations harder to resolve. A major focus of this episode is spousal sponsorship. Lucy breaks down common misconceptions, clarifies what sponsored spouses can and cannot lose if a relationship ends, and explains the sponsor’s financial obligations. She emphasizes that immigration status is often misunderstood and that many people stay in unsafe or unhealthy situations out of fear rather than fact. The conversation highlights the importance of seeking accurate legal information early, protecting children’s stability, and understanding that separation does not automatically mean deportation or loss of rights. Topics covered include: What happens legally when a spouse abandons the homeSeparation without communication or agreementCustody realities after one parent disappearsSpousal sponsorship myths vs legal factsImmigration status and fear of deportationFinancial responsibility of the sponsor after separationWhy many sponsored spouses feel “stuck”When and how to seek legal helpThis episode is for education and public awareness only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a qualified family or immigration lawyer. About the guest Lucy Diale Mewanu, BA (Hons), LL.B., is a Senior Associate and Managing Lawyer of the Family Law practice at Osuji & Smith Lawyers in Alberta, Canada. She is the Board Chair of Ruth’s House Society, a registered charity supporting individuals and families impacted by domestic abuse through shelter, advocacy, and culturally responsive programming. Lucy is also a volunteer lawyer with Calgary Legal Guidance and is deeply committed to increasing access to justice for immigrant and vulnerable communities. - Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss future conversations. 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube 📸 Follow us on FB, Instagram & TikTok: @AfrosInTheDiaspora

    53 min
  2. Family Law 101: Myths About Divorce, Custody & Separation - Part 1 | Family Lawyer Lucy Diale Mewanu

    Mar 17

    Family Law 101: Myths About Divorce, Custody & Separation - Part 1 | Family Lawyer Lucy Diale Mewanu

    In Part 1 of this two-part Expert’s Corner conversation, host Sarah Uwadiae sits down with family lawyer Lucy Diale Mewanu to unpack the foundations of Canadian family law and the common misconceptions many immigrants bring into marriage, separation, and parenting disputes. Drawing from her frontline legal experience, Lucy explains the core principles that guide family courts in Canada and how cultural expectations from highly patriarchal societies can clash with the realities of the legal system. The conversation explores how silence, endurance, and “being patient” are often encouraged culturally, but can leave women and children vulnerable when relationships break down. They discuss what actually matters to the court in custody decisions, how separation is defined legally (not just emotionally), and why understanding your rights early can prevent long-term harm. Lucy also speaks about protective measures such as restraining orders, the legal risks of online slander during disputes, and how to navigate community rumours and gossip while a case is ongoing. This episode is an essential primer for immigrants and newcomers who want to understand the legal landscape before crisis hits. Topics covered include: Basic principles of Canadian family lawCommon myths about divorce, separation, and parentingCulture, patriarchy, and the pressure on women to “endure”Custody and the best interests of the childRestraining and protection ordersSocial media, slander, and legal consequencesManaging rumours and community pressure during disputesThis episode is for education and public awareness only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a qualified family lawyer. About the guest Lucy Diale Mewanu, BA (Hons), LL.B., is a Senior Associate and Managing Lawyer of the Family Law practice at Osuji & Smith Lawyers in Alberta, Canada. She serves as Board Chair of Ruth’s House Society, volunteers with Calgary Legal Guidance, and dedicates annual pro bono hours to increasing access to justice for vulnerable individuals and families. Originally from Cameroon, Lucy immigrated to Canada in 2012 and was called to the Alberta Bar in 2021. Her work centres on family protection, community education, and culturally responsive legal advocacy. - Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss future conversations. 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @AfrosInTheDiaspora

    55 min
  3. 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

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.