en https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/ en-us Onyie takes us on a journey of honest, real life experiences of various immigrants who have moved to Canada or other Western countries in a quest for a better life. The stories are non-fictional thought provoking, exciting, heartbreaking and groundbreaking all at the same time. There are no barriers, no walls and no filters. Think about how openly and honestly you document experiences in your personal diary, then think about the Diary of a Naija Immigrant (The DONI Podcast) This hopes to educate biases and inform unawarenesses, thereby creating a change and building community. Onyie takes us on a journey of honest, real life experiences of various immigrants who have moved to Canada or other Western countries in a quest for a better life. The stories are non-fictional thought provoking, exciting, heartbreaking and groundbreaking all at the same time. There are no barriers, no walls and no filters. Think about how openly and honestly you document experiences in your personal diary, then think about the Diary of a Naija Immigrant (The DONI Podcast) This hopes to educate biases and inform unawarenesses, thereby creating a change and building community. yes CJSW 90.9 FM CJSW Programming programming@cjsw.com Copyright 2026 CJSW Radio https://feedpress.me/link/23708/17322547/20260420 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20260420/ The Celebrity Barber with a PhD: Edy’s Unfiltered Journey


In this episode, we sit down with one of Calgary’s most sought-after celebrity barbers, Edy—a man who defies expectations. Not only is he shaping looks, he’s also the only barber with a PhD in Law. But beyond the titles is a story marked by resilience, reinvention, and relentless faith.


After years of struggling and working tirelessly to build something tangible for himself, he finally makes it—in a story that feels almost unbelievable. Just as everything begins to align, his journey takes a shocking and devastating turn during the war in Ukraine, where in a moment, everything he had built was lost.
What followed wasn’t just a relocation—it was a complete reset.


From Nigeria to Ukraine, and now Canada, Edy’s path has been anything but linear. It’s a story of rising, falling, and rising again—of losing it all and finding purpose in the process.


Behind the smile and his warm, sociable nature lies the deeper reality: the struggle with identity, the weight of starting over, and what it truly means to rebuild when life forces you back to ground zero.


This conversation goes beyond the chair. It’s about grit, faith, and the courage to begin again. If you’ve ever faced setbacks, questioned your path, or needed a reminder of what’s possible when you refuse to give up—this episode is for you.

]]> Mon, 20 Apr 2026 06:25:04 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/17300368/20260316 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20260316/ Season 2 Episode 13: Beyond the Jokes: Sam Precious Gets Real



He proudly calls himself Calgary’s finest MC and comedian, and if you’ve seen Sam Precious in action, you already know the humour is bold, loud, and unapologetically unfiltered. But behind the laughter is a thoughtful and deeply reflective side that many people don’t always see.


In this episode, Sam talks about arriving in Canada and how he experienced what he calls a “soft landing.” He shares why the crowd you surround yourself with in the diaspora can shape your biggest life decisions — from direction to purpose.


We also get into real conversations about marriage, divorce, and why many marriages struggle to stand the test of time abroad, along with the importance of having friends who are brave enough to tell you the hard truths.


Expect laughs, honesty, spiritual reflection, and of course the signature table-breaker energy that says things exactly as they are.

]]> Sat, 14 Mar 2026 20:42:14 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/17264919/20260119 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20260119/ Season 2 Episode 11: Shaking Tables with Strong Opinions & Soft Truths with Chioma Nwigwe



In this episode of The Diary of a Naija Immigrant, I sit down with my friend Chioma Nwigwe for an honest, layered conversation that gently but firmly shakes the table. We talk about feminism, the rights of the girl child, male patriarchy, and the freedom to question societal expectations placed on women.


Chioma shares why she always thought dads had more fun, why she wanted a baby even when marriage wasn’t part of the picture, and how holding strong opinions has shaped her life, choices, and identity.


This episode is thoughtful, real, and full of moments that will make you pause, laugh, and reflect.

]]> Tue, 27 Jan 2026 18:57:44 -0700 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/17235456/20251215 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20251215/ Season 2 Episode 10: Endings, Beginnings & Everything In Between: A Conversation with My Husband



In the final episode of The Diary of a Naija Immigrant Podcast for 2025, Onyie wraps up a transformative year with her most special guest yet—her husband, Ekene. Filmed right in “The Obi house” for maximum comfort, this intimate conversation dives into the emotional highs and lows of 2025, from the intensity of holiday work life to navigating personal loss, identity, and family.


Ekene opens up about the passing of his father early in the year—calling 2025 a “revealing and testing” season—and shares raw reflections on grief, responsibility, and the dreams he wished his father lived long enough to see. Onyie offers empathy and perspective, connecting his journey with her own experiences of loss.


Together, they look back on turning 40, the realities of aging (and the jokes that come with it), raising Gen-Alpha kids in Canada, and the nostalgia of Christmas in Nigeria versus Christmas in diaspora. They explore how immigrant parenting reshapes tradition, how memories evolve across continents, and how their own childhood holiday magic compares to the quieter Christmases they now create for their children.


The episode closes with hope for a gentler 2026—and a promise that Ekene will return to talk about marriage & love as immigrants and all the things the audience wants to hear.]]> Tue, 16 Dec 2025 03:52:08 -0700 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/17121682/20250818 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20250818/ Queen Bougie: Beyond the glitz and glam with Cynthia Nwajiaku



We’re sitting down with the incredible Cynthia Nwajiaku — an HR professional turned co-owner of Two Men and a Truck Calgary North. Her journey is the ultimate immigrant success story: resilience, entrepreneurship, and the brilliance of turning a bad experience into a thriving business.


At first glance, Cynthia is every bit the dazzling socialite — draped in designer pieces, radiating elegance, and exuding quiet confidence. But behind the glam is a woman of grit, humility, and vision. In this episode, she opens up about her path to Calgary, the values that shaped her rise, and the surprising truths people discover once they look beyond the labels.


From smart investing and building thriving businesses, to creating generational wealth and cultivating genuine friendships that outlast the glitz and glam — Cynthia drops golden nuggets at every turn.


This is elegance with substance. Grab your popcorn — you won’t want to miss it!]]> Fri, 15 Aug 2025 20:40:19 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/17101137/20250721 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20250721/ Season 2 Episode 6: From Overdressed to Overcoming: Lanre Ajayi’s Bold Leap to Canada



In this deeply personal episode, Lanre Ajayi shares his raw and inspiring immigration story — an unexpected move to Canada that quickly turned into a rollercoaster of culture shocks, job rejections, and near-legal trouble. From being overdressed at interviews to being swindled within months of arrival, Lanre holds nothing back as he reflects on the emotional toll and lessons learned.



But this story isn't all struggle — it’s one of remarkable transformation. Tune in to hear how volunteering became his unexpected lifeline in Calgary, unlocking opportunities that finally allowed his artistic talents to thrive.



Whether you're an immigrant, artist, or someone navigating new beginnings, this episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes, rock bottom is the start of real change.]]> Wed, 16 Jul 2025 17:59:39 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/17033975/20250519 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20250519/ Season 2 Episode 5: From Naija to Calgary: two generations, one powerful story.



In this heartfelt episode of The Diary of a Naija Immigrant podcast, we sit down with a remarkable mother-daughter duo - Mercy and Felicia, to explore their powerful journey of sacrifice, resilience, and love across continents.



The daughter was the first to make the leap, immigrating to Canada with her family of three and starting a new life in Calgary. But when she gave birth to twins and faced overwhelming fatigue and isolation, her mother, after several visa denials stepped in, traveling from Nigeria to help her daughter navigate the challenging early days of motherhood.



What began as a short visit turned into a long-term commitment. This devoted mother, a widow for over 24 years, chose to stay behind in the bitter Calgary winters, leaving her home and familiarity in Nigeria to support her daughter and grandchildren through thick and thin.



Tune in as they share candid reflections on immigration, motherhood, grief, and the unshakeable bond that holds their family together across borders and generations.]]> Thu, 15 May 2025 18:34:08 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16985190/20250317 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20250317/ Season 2 Episode 4: Perpie's Journey With Art and Motherhood



Perpie shares insights on how she became the award winning artist in Canada while diving into her journey with motherhood in a busy and technology forward world. She comes into this conversation with openness and complete vulnerability about her kids' experience with indecent adult content exposure.



So thankful for this episode with Perpie as she held nothing back and you don't want to miss this episode. It is eye opening, informative and educational.]]> Sat, 08 Mar 2025 18:12:28 -0700 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16923123/20241216 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20241216/ Season 2 Episode 3: 2024 in Retrospect



As 2024 comes to a close, Onyie looks back at the year that it has been- the wins, the loses and the lessons. Need a little encouragement before the year ends? Or aa word to help make your day better? Then this episode is for you...



Don't forget to check out part 2, there's a surprise in there for you.

]]> Tue, 17 Dec 2024 15:50:25 -0700 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16889997/20241118 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20241118/ Season 2 Episode 2: Family Violence Prevention Within Immigrant Families



Onyie sits with Mr. Ife and Dr. Dami Adingupu, the founders of TheMarriageAdvocates Canada and ThrivingRelationshipsNow, organizations dedicated to equipping couples with the skills to build strong, lasting relationships.



They bring fresh perspective and insight on such a sensitive topic. Did you know that research shows that every 1 in 3 married immigrant couple are at risk of domestic violence and or divorce within 2-5 years of moving to Canada? I bet you didn’t know.


This episode promises to be exciting, very educative and totally insightful. Tune in!]]> Mon, 18 Nov 2024 16:16:14 -0700 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16867326/20241028 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20241028/ Season 2 Episode 1 : Dennis - The Human Switch Board



Dennis Agbegha is one of the most popular socialites in Calgary, however, there's a story behind his tremendous achievements in the city of Calgary.



We seat dived into his back story or like he describes it, his why!]]> Fri, 25 Oct 2024 19:34:50 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16717333/20240617-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20240617-1/ EP 13. PT2 - Networking in the Summer - Calgary Edition



In the midst of our goodbye episode with Tomi, she was gracious to give us tips on how to network and mingle this Summer in the city of Calgary.



This episode also marks the cap to our season 1 of DONI. But we will be back and better in the Fall with some exciting new episodes. Something is cooking guys, so please get excited and watch this space!]]> Sat, 15 Jun 2024 17:17:06 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16717302/20240617 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20240617/ EP 13 - Good News/Bad News Situation



It is definitely a mixed bag situation on this episode. While we celebrate a big win for the podcast, we also have some goodbyes to say and goodbyes are never fun!


You'd have to listen to know what's in this mixed bag though.]]> Sat, 15 Jun 2024 17:13:48 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16687941/20240520-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20240520-1/ Episode 12: "Who is to say your mother got it right?"



Dr. Tolu continues the story of her motherhood journey, while unraveling the human complexity of every child being different. However, at the end of the day the intent in the actions we take while raising our kids matters most.



She gives practical examples of her experience while raising her kids and how she navigates or navigated parenting during and through her continuous immigration process.]]> Fri, 17 May 2024 19:27:10 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16687942/20240520 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20240520/ Episode 12: The Land of Brown VS White People.



We sit and chat with the very wise and knowledgeable Dr. Tolu Solola as she tells us about her journey of motherhood in the UK, where her son faced several incidents of racist verbal abuse which made him want to live in Nigeria aka the "Brown factory".



Alas, his wish was granted, but was in worth it? You'll have to listen to find out.]]> Fri, 17 May 2024 19:24:50 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16652041/20240415-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20240415-1/ Episode 11 Part 2: Processing Childhood Naivety as a Psychologist.



Chimdi talks about how being a psychologist helped her process her experience of being different yet oblivious of it.



She also talks about her experience on her very first trip to Nigeria (Lagos). It definitely wasn't what she expected.



This episode was packed with so much gossip and fun topics.]]> Tue, 16 Apr 2024 20:12:19 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16652028/20240415 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20240415/ Episode 11: Different but Naive wth Chimdi



Chimdi takes us on her journey of being the only black girl in her community (school), experiencing some weird micro aggressions yet being too young and naive to give nuance or language to her experiences.



She talks about how she was picked out in her class because of the stereotype associated with African kids. You'd have to listen to understand, but Chimdi gives so much perspective on this episode.]]> Tue, 16 Apr 2024 20:09:01 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16623407/20240318-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20240318-1/ Episode 10: Quiet and Grateful??? with Tola



Tola also talks about the mentality of being quiet and grateful for being in Canada.



She delves deeper into her journey as a young immigrant navigating university, her struggles with mental health and how fine arts and poetry became a form of expression for her.]]> Sat, 16 Mar 2024 18:06:09 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16623344/20240318 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20240318/ Episode 10: Serial Immigration with Tola



In this episode, we sit down with Adetola Adetipe, a Nigerian-South African poet based in Calgary, Canada and goes under the name “aloT of Poetry”.



We discuss her immigration story, from not knowing about her parent's immigration plan, and suddenly having to leave behind her connections in South Africa and then, finding ways to cope and express her feelings about being in a foreign country.]]> Sat, 16 Mar 2024 18:03:56 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16582574/20240219-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20240219-1/ Episode 9: Black History Month with Wunmi Idowu PT 2



Wunmi Idowu takes us on the journey of finding her voice in a society built to make her lose it.


She might have succeeded in creating space for creatives through her platform, but it is not void of obstacles and some days that remind her that she is Black and different.]]> Thu, 15 Feb 2024 19:14:49 -0700 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16582326/20240219 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/podcast/20240219/ Episode 9: Black History Month with Wunmi Idowu



Onyie sits down with Wunmi Idowu - founder and director of WOEZO Africa Music and dance theatre, incorporated . She recalls her journey as a first generation immigrant, moving to Canada at 10 and surviving as one of the exceedingly few Black people in Edmonton.


Despite being called names like "monkey" and asked to go back to her country, she finds her voice and ultimately created space for other people like her to thrive as artists.]]> Thu, 15 Feb 2024 18:59:29 -0700 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16501081/20231218-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20231218-1/ Episode 7: Immigrant Entrepreneurship PT 2



In part 2 Tomi and Onyie continue to discuss the year that it has been. We discuss the gains of the year, the tears and losses, but most importantly, we count our blessings and encourage you to do the same.]]> Mon, 18 Dec 2023 18:59:19 -0700 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16501083/20231218 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20231218/ Episode 8: Count your blessings - Year end Recap



Tomi and Onyie sit down to look at the year that it has been. We discuss the gains of the year, the tears and losses, but most importantly, we count our blessings an encourage you to do the same.]]> Mon, 18 Dec 2023 18:57:26 -0700 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16463387/20231120-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20231120-1/ Episode 7: Immigrant Entrepreneurship PT 2



In this continuation of Ejemen’s story, we chat about Nigerian families back home and the perceptions of business owners in the abroad.]]> Tue, 21 Nov 2023 17:58:21 -0700 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16463389/20231120 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20231120/ Episode 7: Immigrant Entrepreneurship



In this episode, we chat about entrepreneurship with the serial immigrant and serial entrepreneur- Ejemen who runs an African foodstuff shop.



Ejemen, an entrepreneur with years of experience opening up shops across the globe. We hear about her experiences trying to be a business owner in places such as the United Arab Emirates and how she tackles the challenges associated with it.]]> Tue, 21 Nov 2023 17:56:38 -0700 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16402017/20231016-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20231016-1/ Episode 6: Identity with Tomi and Onyie (part 2)



In part 2 of this episode, we take a deeper look into Tomi's sense of identity, the struggles of wanting to be seen as an individual rather than compared to other members of her family, and how that played into her insecurities.]]> Wed, 18 Oct 2023 22:26:25 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16402019/20231016 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20231016/ Episode 6: Identity with Tomi and Onyie (part 1)



In this guestless episode, our hosts Tomi and Onyie take a deeper look into each other's lives. This episode takes a look back at how their surroundings and perceptions have shaped their sense of self. We also how moving from one continent to another may or may not require one to completely reinvent themselves.]]> Wed, 18 Oct 2023 22:22:27 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16356002/20230918-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20230918-1/ Episode 5: Building 'The Brdge' with Daniella (Part 2)



In part 2, we take a deeper look into Daniella’s desire to create her business by looking at her immigration journey. From looking at her university athletic career to challenging her own perceptions surrounding other ethnic foods and what it means to be challenged in school, life, business, and more.]]> Tue, 19 Sep 2023 18:55:18 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16356004/20230918 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20230918/ Episode 5: Building 'The Brdge' with Daniella (Part 1)



In this episode, we chat with Daniella Jasper-Okumagba, founder of The Brdge YYC, an international food market where ethnic food sellers meet with different immigrants for a taste of home. We talk to her about where the idea came from, her journey into the world of entrepreneurship, and how she manages to stay in touch with her Nigerian roots.]]> Tue, 19 Sep 2023 18:53:45 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16308792/20230821-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20230821-1/ Episode 4: Self Love with Maria (Part 2)



In part 2, Maria discusses the different ways she tries to reaffirm her newfound sense of beauty against cultural norms. We also discuss cultural differences she unexpectedly encountered after purchasing that one-way ticket.]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 19:02:55 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16308794/20230821 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20230821/ Episode 4: Self Love with Maria (Part 1)



In this episode, we talk with Maria Udalo, the host of the Self-Love Affirmations Podcast. Maria talks about her journey to self-love, navigating her emotions after immigrating to Canada, and the pressures that prevented her from realizing her love for herself.]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 19:01:21 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16247301/20230717-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20230717-1/ Episode 3 Part 2 - Black don't crack, do we?



Black don't crack, Black is gold. However, we struggle too, we are humans too.



The expectations surrounding Black masculinity include being strong and stoic, thereby expecting them to mask their emotions including their struggle with mental health.



However, being exposed to racism and discrimination, yet daring to be successful in a very white world can take a toll on anyone. But how can Black men begin to speak up and seek for help? Sam talks about embracing therapy even though it may be seen as an alien concept for most Naija and other African immigrants?]]> Wed, 19 Jul 2023 14:22:59 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16247303/20230717 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20230717/ Episode 3 Part 1 - Immigration and Mental Health with Sam



The effect of immigration on mental health cannot be overemphasized. However, it is hard to truly understand this without experiencing it.


Today we have a special guest, the award winning celebrity photographer- Sam of Motif Photography. He bares it all about being so successful and a force to be reckoned with in Calgary, yet struggling with his mental health, behind closed doors.



He tries to find the answer to the most asked question, yet finds no answers. The question? "Are you okay?"]]> Wed, 19 Jul 2023 14:20:25 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16200456/20230619-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20230619-1/ Episode 2: Meet your hosts - Tomi's Journey (Part 2)



In part two of our conversation with Tomi, we discuss what she would do differently if she could repeat her childhood. We talk about belonging and the countless ways to be Black.]]> Wed, 21 Jun 2023 15:19:50 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16200458/20230619 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20230619/ Episode 2: Meet your hosts - Tomi's Journey (Part 1)



In this episode, we chat with Tomi -- Diary of a Naija Immigrant cohost and editor-in-chief of Afros In Tha City. Tomi talks about growing up as a second generation immigrant and the realities of being raised by immigrant parents.]]> Wed, 21 Jun 2023 15:16:56 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16143110/20230515-1 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20230515-1/ Episode 1: Part 2



On this episode, Onyie talks about the road to immigrating from her country - Nigeria, to Calgary, Alberta, Canada. She shares some of her experience, joys, pain and heartaches as she moved with her two young children in the dead of the famous Edmonton/Calgary Winter, all in the quest to give her kids the life she never had.



Don't forget to rate, share and leave a comment wherever you listen to the podcast. We'd like to know how much you enjoyed the episode!

Good Ratings mean even more people find out about this podcast, thereby creating a change, one ear at a time!]]> Tue, 23 May 2023 19:01:40 -0600 https://feedpress.me/link/23708/16143112/20230515 https://cjsw.com/program/diary-of-a-naija-immigrant/episode/20230515/ Episode 1: Part 1



On this episode, Onyie talks about the road to immigrating from her country - Nigeria, to Calgary, Alberta, Canada. She shares some of her experience, joys, pain and heartaches as she moved with her two young children in the dead of the famous Edmonton/Calgary Winter, all in the quest to give her kids the life she never had.



Don't forget to rate, share and leave a comment wherever you listen to the podcast. We'd like to know how much you enjoyed the episode!

Good Ratings mean even more people find out about this podcast, thereby creating a change, one ear at a time!]]> Tue, 23 May 2023 18:59:41 -0600