Pánsá Pánsá Podcast

Ms Kemi Seriki
Pánsá Pánsá Podcast

This is a podcast where we discuss the lives of African immigrants and their assimilation into Western society as they raise younger generations in a country that is quite different from their own. We also explore the experiences of children of immigrants as they balance between their heritage African and Western cultures. We are going to present informative, interesting, and expansive dialogue about the intricate experiences of African immigrants in America. For additional information, please log onto our website @ pansapansa.org and follow us on instagram @ pansa.pansaforum

  1. SE6/EP 58: Conversation with Dr. Mercedes Okosi-Breaking the Silence, Mental Health, Stigma, Cultural Competence and Understanding Mental Health in a Multicultural Communities

    FEB 22

    SE6/EP 58: Conversation with Dr. Mercedes Okosi-Breaking the Silence, Mental Health, Stigma, Cultural Competence and Understanding Mental Health in a Multicultural Communities

    Dr. Mercedes J. Okosi practices at Columbia Health, and she joined the department in 2023. She specializes in individual and group therapy for students presenting with various diagnoses and engages in campus outreach initiatives. Dr. Okosi worked with college students experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and adjustment issues. She provided individual and family therapy to high school students. She also provided therapy, developed socioemotional school interventions in Newark, and engaged in motivational interviewing for previously incarcerated college students.  She has prior experience in providing psychotherapy to women experiencing trauma, substance abuse, and mood disorders and working with individuals with mood disorders, personality disorders, grief, trauma, substance abuse, and severe mental illness in both general outpatient and inpatient populations at New York City hospitals. She also became competent at facilitating both skills-focused and process groups.  Dr. Okosi studied Applied Psychology at the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University. Unlike a traditional psychology degree, this developmental and sociocultural-focused program immersed her in foundational psychological knowledge and fieldwork opportunities to engage in clinical practice with marginalized populations in the city. Her fieldwork involved working with adolescents and young adults in a nonprofit setting dealing with mental illness, extreme poverty, immigration difficulties, and a host of other psychosocial burdens. Dr. Okosi extended herself to internships and part-time work throughout her undergraduate career to gain experience in areas including HIV+, substance abuse, and severe mental illness. Dr. Okosi received her Psy.D. in clinical psychology at Rutgers University and completed a doctoral internship at Mount Sinai St. Luke's and West Hospitals. Dr. Okosi is a bilingual (English/Spanish) New York State licensed clinical psychologist. Dr. Okosi is the clinical director of the Safe Mothers, Safe Children Initiative at NYU and owner of the private practice Growth Work Psychology Services PLLC, where she specializes in trauma. Dr. Okosi's research is at the intersection of trauma, identity, and social justice. Dr. Okosi shared personal and professional insights into her therapy field during our conversation. We discussed her rich multicultural background as a daughter of a Nigerian father and African American mother. We talked about how these two heritages shaped her childhood and navigating her career choice.  Dr. Okosi offered a unique perspective on the challenges that immigrant communities face when it comes to mental health. We dived into both the stigma and the lack of awareness of mental health within immigrants' communities and other people of color. We further discussed the vital role that cultural understanding and education play in overcoming these barriers. We discussed cultural competence role in therapy and what steps to take to ensure providers are sensitive to cultural differences in their practices. In conclusion, change is possible when we continue to have these critical conversations and create spaces where mental health is essential to overall well-being, no matter where we come from. For consultation or to learn more about Dr. Okosi, pleasefollow the link below.   Check your benefits!https://mentaya.com/checkbenefits/GROWTHWORKBook a call with me!https://calendly.com/drmokosi/15minMercedes J. Okosi, Psy.D.Licensed Clinical Psychologist302 5th Ave, 8FLNew York, NY 10001(646) 822.4624www.growthworkpsych.orgdrmokosi@gmail.com

    1h 11m
  2. SE6/EP57: Conversation with Dr. Bayo Akomolafe on African Traditional Beliefs and Their Impact on Mental Health Perception, Research, and Treatment, and the Experiences of Africans in the Diaspora

    FEB 7

    SE6/EP57: Conversation with Dr. Bayo Akomolafe on African Traditional Beliefs and Their Impact on Mental Health Perception, Research, and Treatment, and the Experiences of Africans in the Diaspora

    l came across Dr. Akomolafe’s profile on Facebook about a seminar he was planning on giving therapy service providers titled “Where Do We Go When Healing Becomes Ill?Navigating the Empire of Trauma”. After connecting with his website, I was incredibly impressed with his background and the life journey that shaped whom he has become today. I asked if he was open to conversation, and I wasthrilled when he accepted my invitation. The mission of this conversation was to discuss the role of African traditional belief systems in influencing the perceptions of the approach and the management of mental illness. Also, it brings the importance of mental health awareness to African immigrant communities in the diaspora.   During our conversation, Dr.Akomolafe talked about his family background and how his circumstantial reference to losing his father at a young age has some influence on whom he has become today. He talked about his educational background and how earning hisPhD in clinical psychology in Nigeria shaped his understanding of traditional African belief systems as it relates to mental health. We discussed the possibility of integrating conventional African practices with Western mental health care since mental health care is openly discussed globally. For a therapist who may be working with a client who is an African immigrant, Dr.Akomolafe advises on how this therapist can navigate the intersection of traditional beliefs and modern psychological practices. Dr. Akomolafe has written award-winning books and co-authored some other books. We discussed two of his books, “These Wilds Beyond Our Fences: Letters to My Daughter onHumanity's Search for Home” and “We Will Tell Our Own Story: The Lion of Africa Speaks”.   A short-form biography of Dr. Bayo Akomolafe   Bayo Akomolafe (Ph.D.), rooted with the Yoruba people in a more-than-human world, is the father to Alethea Aanya and Kyah Jayden Abayomi, the grateful life-partner to Ije, sonand brother. A widely celebrated international speaker, post-humanist thinker, poet, teacher, public intellectual, essayist, and author of two books, These Wilds Beyond our Fences: Letters to My Daughter on Humanity’s Search for Home(North Atlantic Books) and We Will Tell our Own Story: The Lions of Africa Speak, Bayo Akomolafe is the Founder of The Emergence Network, a planet-wide initiative that seeks to convene communities in new ways in response to thecritical, civilizational challenges we face as a species. He hosts the post-activist course/festival/event, ‘We Will Dance with Mountains.’ He currently lectures at Pacifica Graduate Institute, California. He sits on the Board of many organizations including Science and Non-Duality (US) and Ancient. Futures (Australia).   In July 2022, Dr. Akomolafe was appointed the inaugural Global Senior Fellow of the University of California’s (Berkeley) Othering and Belonging Institute. He is also the inaugural Special Fellow of the Schumacher Centre for New Economics, the Inaugural Scholar in Residence for the Aspen Institute, the inaugural Special Fellow for the Council of an Uncertain Human Future, and a Visiting Scholar at Clark University, Massachusetts, USA (2024). He has been a Fellow for The NewInstitute in Hamburg, Germany, and a Visiting Critic-in Residence for the Otis College of Art and Design, Los Angeles (2023). He received an Honorary Doctorate from the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) and has been a Commencement Speaker at two university convocation events. He also received the New Thought Leadership Award 2021 and the Excellence in Ethnocultural Psychotherapy Award at the African Mental Health Summit 2022. Dr. Akomolafe is a Member of the Club of Rome, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts in the UK, and an Ambassador for the Wellbeing Economy Alliance.   For further information www.bayoakomolafe.net www.emergencenetwork.org

    54 min

  3. JAN 17

    SE6/EP56: Conversation with Mrs. Ifeyinwa Okany Dimoriaku and Mrs. Martina Asong on their Immigrant Journeys and Expertise on Vital Roles of Health and Life Insurance Policy

    Historically, many African immigrants anticipated retiring in their respective countries of origin, and cultural bonding, familiarities, and memorable history of home usually draw this. However, the realities are more complex than anticipated, and the factors contributing to this complexity include lack of quality health care, the standard of living, and other realistic issues that may be challenging to achieve such a dream. As immigrants, planning for a future that balances the expectations and reality of aging is crucial. We must ensure that we have solid financial and health security for ourselves and our families. Such a concrete plan would not only safeguard our well-being, but it would secure a stable foundation for our children. We can avoid burdening our children or settling for a poor healthcare system with limited coverage. Mrs. Martina Asong and Mrs Ifeyinwa Dimoriaku are experts in this field to educate our community about this topic. Both guests are financial professionals working with World System Builder. A company that is dedicated to helping people build financial foundations.                Mrs. Martina Asong is a retired teacher from Cameroon. She is a widow and has two grown-up sons. She came to America in 2019 to take care of her grandchildren. She joined the Financial Literacy campaign in September 2022. She joined the campaign for two reasons. The first reason is to contribute her quota towards educating 30 million families by 2030. The second reason is to alleviate her children's financial stress and assist in sponsoring her grandchildren's education. She’s now a licensed member of the team. Ifeyinwa Okany Dimoriaku is married and has three children. She is a Contract Manager at the Division of School Facilities, New York City Department of Education. Her educational background is in the field of Architecture. She graduated from the University of Nigeria with a B.Sc and an M.Sc. in Architecture. After lecturing at Enugu State University of Science and Technology, she went for further studies at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, where she obtained a Master of Advanced Studies in Architecture specializing in the Application of Computers. After her studies in Canada, she returned to Nigeria, where she taught at the University of Nigeria for a while before joining her husband in New York. Four years ago, she joined the Financial Literacy campaign of World Financial Group/World System Builder and obtained a license as a Life and Health Insurance Agent. Her mission is to build a proper financial foundation for her family and contribute her quota to educating 30 million families by 2030.   During our conversation, both guests talked about their backgrounds and what inspired them to become an insurance agent, mainly working with immigrant families. We discussed the practical and traditional factors influencing health and life insurance choices within the African immigrant community, such as future health plans, health status, family dynamics, immigration status, socioeconomic status, language barriers, etc. We further discuss obstacles immigrant families face in navigating the U.S. health care and insurance systems. Both guests provide information about coverages that would benefit the immigrant community. Please listen and share this vital information.   WORLD SYSTEM BUILDER https://worldsystembuilder.com/ FINANCIAL LITERACY WORKSHOP CALENDAR https://worldsystembuilder.com/workshopcalendar/

    53 min

  4. TRAILER

    Growing Together Through Uncomfortable but Necessary Conversation

    Happy New Year to our listeners, and welcome to Pansa Pansa Podcast. At Pansa Pansa Podcast, we continue to explore meaningful conversations that contribute to the welfare of our African immigrant communities in the diaspora. Many topics are coming your way that speaks to our needs as we continue to inspire our community. The topics to explore include retirement planning and the logistics of old age. We will discuss mental health and mental illness and how our cultural background and stigma of mental illness hinder our ability to seek help. I am also inviting a psychiatrist who specializes in addiction and mental health, and the focus group of the conversation would be African immigrant children. The Pansa Pansa Podcast aims to continue to break the barriers on uncomfortable topics, challenge the stigma, and inspire positive changes as we work through the collective growth and well-being of our communities in the diaspora.

    3 min
  5. SE6/EP55: Conversation with Judith Folashade Ojo on the Tapestry of Identity Navigating Nigerian and African American Roots copy

    12/27/2024

    SE6/EP55: Conversation with Judith Folashade Ojo on the Tapestry of Identity Navigating Nigerian and African American Roots copy

    My first contact with Judith Folashade Ojo at OAN Organization of Advancement of Nigeria was years ago. Her pleasantness, sociable nature, and desire to connect with her Nigerian roots impressed me. Folashade came from two powerful heritages, African American and Nigeria, specifically Yoruba Heritage. Since I met her, she has always embraced her two heritage. For example, I was invited to Folashade's 40th birthday party, and the whole setup of the event blew me away. There were both Nigerian and African American families and friends at the party. I was blown away by the spread of Nigerian food, including jollof rice, Asaro, pounded yam, and amala, served with Gbegiri and Ewedu. This signature food specifically came from her father's hometown, Ibadan. Folashade dressed in a beautiful dress with a staple Yoruba headtie for this celebration.  I have always been curious about children who grow up in a multicultural or a multiracial household. The heartfelt discussion explores the tapestry of culture through Folashade's experience that binds Nigerians and African Americans. Bio: Judith Ojo is the Founder and CEO of HR Media & Co., a minority women-owned HR consulting firm based in Manhattan. With over a decade of experience in HR and recruiting, Judith is dedicated to providing human-centered solutions that drive organizational success. She is also the founder of LET'S TALK ALL THINGS HR®, an educational platform designed to support businesses in navigating HR challenges. Judith has held leadership positions across nonprofit, government, and corporate sectors. In 2022, HR Media & Co. was recognized as a Top 10 Emerging L&D company by Manage HR magazine, and in 2023, Judith earned a spot in Marquis Who's Who in America. A strong advocate for her community, Judith has been actively involved in Brooklyn, serving as the President of Soroptimist International of NYC, where she has made significant contributions to women's empowerment and community development. Folashade is a dedicated member of OAN, an Organization of Advancement of Nigeria, and the financial secretary of the organization. On the conversation: Folashade founded two companies before age 40, and she continues to empower younger generations coming behind. During our conversation, we talked about Folashade's multicultural background and how her two heritage influenced her approach to her work ethic and eventually launching her own company. We discuss the challenges or advantages she encountered in her business due to her two heritages. We dived into her family dynamics and how her two heritages shaped her childhood, focusing on the traditions she grew up with. As an active member of OAN, Folashade discussed her motivation in joining the organization, and she reflected on her experience within the Nigerian community. We talked about her extended family in Nigeria and America and how these connections enriched her understanding of her heritage. We briefly discussed her father's immigrant experience and the challenges he may have faced when he first arrived in America, such as discrimination, loneliness, isolation, cultural adjustment, employment, and opportunities.     When you visit Nigeria Folashade, the Oriki below is the partial praise poetry of Ibadan that may be chant to you hopefully by professional chanter. Ibadan people are historically known as warriors. Oriki Ibadan Ibadan mesi Ogo, nile Oluyole. Ilu Ogunmola, olodogbo keri loju ogun. Ilu Ibikunle alagbala jaya-jaya. Ilu Ajayi, o gbori efon se filafila. Ilu Latosa, Aare-ona kakanfo. Ibadan Omo ajoro sun. Omo a je Igbin yoo, fi ikarahun fo ri mu. Ibadan maja-maja bii tojo kin-in-ni, eyi too ja aladuugbo gbogbo logun, Ibadan ki ba ni s’ore ai mu ni lo s’ogun. Ibadan Kure! Ibadan beere ki o too wo o, ni bi olè gbe n jare olohun. B’Ibadan ti n gbonile bee lo n gba Ajoji. Eleyele lomi ti teru-tomo 'layipo n mu. Asejire lomi abumu-buwe nile Ibadan. A kii waye ki a ma larun kan lara, Ija igboro larun Ibadan.

    1h 5m
  6. SE6/EP54: Conversation with Dr. Mojúbàolú Olúfúnké Okome Exploring African Migration to the United States on Contributing Factors, Challenges and Unique Experiences of African Immigrants in America

    12/13/2024

    SE6/EP54: Conversation with Dr. Mojúbàolú Olúfúnké Okome Exploring African Migration to the United States on Contributing Factors, Challenges and Unique Experiences of African Immigrants in America

    Dr. Mojúbàolú Olúfúnké Okome is a Social Scientist and a Professor of Political Science, African & Women's Studies at Brooklyn College in NYC. I recently came across the essay written by Dr. Okome titled 'African Immigration to the United States: Dimensions of Migration, Immigration, and Exile.' The essay resonates with some of my discussions on the Pansa Pansa podcast regarding the lack of research focused on African immigrants in the U.S. African immigrants are often grouped with Latino immigrants, African Americans, and other immigrant communities of color. As a result, it overlooks the unique challenges African immigrants face in America. While there are commonalities among these groups, it is essential to recognize the distinct issues that African immigrants encounter. The lack of recognition of African immigrant's experiences underscores the need for more research, and a conversation with Dr. Okome will provide a more precise explanation of this issue, engaging us in the quest for a better understanding. Bio Mojúbàolú Olufúnké Okome, PhD is an International Political Economist whose regional specialization is in Africa. Educated at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, Long Island University, and Columbia University, New York, she's a Professor of Political Science at Brooklyn College, CUNY, past Women's Studies Program Director, and past Deputy Chair for Graduate Studies in Political Science at Brooklyn College.  Born in Nigeria, Mojúbàolú has consulted for clients, including the UN and Commonwealth Secretariat in London.  Her teaching interests focus on inclusive, equitable citizenship in globalization, democratization, and economic development.  Research interests include Gender, Democracy Governance, Post-Colonialism and Modernity, Development and Citizenship in Africa, Globalization, Economic and Political Transformation, and African Diaspora Studies.  She founded #BringBackOurGirlsNYC, founded and edits Ìrìnkèrindò: A Journal of African Migration. She has published seven sole-authored and edited books. The latest edited book is Para-Mallam, O., & Okome, M.O. (Eds.). (2023). Gender and Development in Nigeria: Concepts, Issues and Strategies. Kuru, Plateau State, Nigeria: NIPSS Press. During our conversation, Dr. Okome talked about her background growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, and she detailed her college experience at the University of Ibadan when the university held the students in high esteem. She gave an account of the economic downfall in Nigeria, which resulted in many Nigerians seeking a better life in Europe and in the Western world. Dr. Okome addressed the elephant in the room, 'the brain drain.' Nigeria and other African countries continue to experience a significant brain drain, losing talented and highly educated professionals—such as herself, a political and social scientist, doctor, and engineer who could significantly contribute to the continent's development in many areas. She further explained how the IMF contributes to this economic downfall. In the writing of the essay titled 'African Immigration to the United States: Dimensions of Migration, Immigration, and Exile,' Dr. Okome shared that her personal experience as a Nigerian immigrant shaped her desire to write the essay.  During our discussion, she highlighted the assumption that African immigrants are predominantly vendors or work in hair braiding businesses. She further explained how this narrative impacts the broader African immigrant community, particularly those working as professionals or pursuing education, enlightening us on the power of narratives in shaping perceptions.

    1h 37m
  7. SE6/EP53: Conversation with Marjy Marj: Insights on Immigration, Motherhood, and Race as an African in America"

    11/01/2024

    SE6/EP53: Conversation with Marjy Marj: Insights on Immigration, Motherhood, and Race as an African in America"

    Marjorie Boafo Appiah, also known as Marjy Marj, is diverse in many areas as an author and a visionary. I recently came across Marjy's Instagram post on her publication of children's and young readers' books on immigrant experiences. The post displayed a series of children's books she wrote examining the immigrant experiences.  I immediately went to her website and was impressed by her work in the United States and globally. Bio: Marjorie Boafo Appiah is a multifaceted author and visionary. With an academic background spanning the Universities of Ghana, Baltimore, and Duke University, Marjy's expertise as a management consultant is underpinned by a solid foundation of diverse educational experiences. As the founder of the Innovation Group, she has created a nurturing environment where creative ideas can blossom and grow. Marjy's dedication to promoting literacy and representation in books is evident in her tireless efforts. Her list of publications, including The Shimmigrant, Sasha Goes to America Part 1, 2, & 3, The Spelling King, Same Elephant, and The Jollof Project, is a testament to her commitment.   Marjy Marj is also the host of the Humanity Chats with Marjy Podcast, where she has conversations with guests on daily issues impacting human lives. She works with communities, schools, bookstores, and publishing houses, ensuring that young readers in the United States, United Kingdom, and Ghana can access a wide range of literature. She has been recognized both locally and regionally for her skills, dedication to community work, and advocacy. Our conversation: During our conversation, we briefly discussed her childhood experience growing up in Ghana and coming to the United States. We dived deeply into the African Immigrant Experience and Black Identity. We talked about the boxing of everyone into different categories, such as identity-based on skin color, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and many more. Immigrants always have to navigate these other categories that are foreign to them. We talked about how African immigrant families struggle when it comes to raising their children in America and the challenges our community faces when adapting to life in the U.S., especially as parents.   Marji Marj's books are available worldwide at bookstores and on her website, www.marjymarj.com Her podcast, Humanity Chats with Marjy, is published on all major podcast platforms, ensuring that a global audience can access and enjoy it.

    1h 16m
  8. SE6/EP 52 Conversation with Dr. Adeodat Ilboudo the Dean of Studies at Bard High School Early College-Manhattan about academic opportunities at Bard High school

    09/27/2024

    SE6/EP 52 Conversation with Dr. Adeodat Ilboudo the Dean of Studies at Bard High School Early College-Manhattan about academic opportunities at Bard High school

    Dr. Adeodat Ilboudo, the dean of studies at Bard Early College-Manhattan, leads a tuition-free private school that offers adolescent students the opportunity to take college-level classes. This unique environment is designed to provide rigorous two-year college academic work in a supportive atmosphere, ensuring students feel reassured and confident in their educational journey. Among her various roles, she is also a College Advisor and teaches college-level biology and the Biology of Cancer. Dr Adeodat Ilboudo holds a PhD in Biological and Health Sciences. Academic and research interests include cancer health disparities, especially in prostate cancer, the mechanisms of metastasis in solid tumors, and Hepatitis B. On her educational background, Dr. Adeodat Ilboudo holds a B.S. in Cellular Biology and Physiology from the University of Western Brittany (France) and an M.Sc in Fundamental and Applied Microbiology from the University of Western Brittany (France). She completed her PhD in Biology and Health Sciences at the University of Rennes 1 (France). She was an adjunct lecturer at the University of Rennes and a Hunter College, New York postdoctoral researcher. I recently learned about Bard Early College. I was very excited to have her as a guest on the Pansa Pansa Podcast, sharing information about the program with listeners who may benefit from this transformative educational opportunity. Bard Early College is a beacon of hope in a world where opportunities for low-income, underrepresented, and first-generation college students are limited. During our conversation, Dr. Ilboudo shared her experience growing up in Burkina Faso in a loving household with her parents, extended family, and community. She talked about her parents' sacrifice in sending her to study post-secondary school in France and her experience as an African student in France. Even though she experienced biases and microaggression, she would not allow such experiences to hinder her from achieving her goals. That is an inspirational story, and she stands as exemplary to many youths.   In our discussion about Bard Early College, Dr Adeodat Ilboudo provides an overview of the program and the benefits and opportunities it offers students and their families. She talks about the eligibility criteria for the program and the application process. We discussed the academic and social support services provided to underprivileged students once they are admitted. For a student or a parent interested in learning more about Bard Early College Program, Dr. Adeodat advises the prospective families to visit the website, attend information sessions, speak to program representatives, talk to current students or alums, and, importantly, evaluate academic readiness as well as interest. For listeners, please share this podcast with those who could benefit from this information.   To contact to Dr. Adeodat ilboudo email her at ailboudo@bhsec.bard.edu

    1h 4m
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About

This is a podcast where we discuss the lives of African immigrants and their assimilation into Western society as they raise younger generations in a country that is quite different from their own. We also explore the experiences of children of immigrants as they balance between their heritage African and Western cultures. We are going to present informative, interesting, and expansive dialogue about the intricate experiences of African immigrants in America. For additional information, please log onto our website @ pansapansa.org and follow us on instagram @ pansa.pansaforum

Information

  • Creator
    Ms Kemi Seriki
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    65
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Ms Kemi Seriki
  • Show Website
    Pánsá Pánsá Podcast

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