Our Story, Your Voice!
Our Story, Your Voice is a podcast that amplifies the voices of Black African women in the UK, sharing their inspiring stories, challenges, and triumphs. Each episode explores essential topics, from mental and physical health to community solidarity, promoting a supportive space for shared experiences. Join us to understand, connect, and support this powerful community narrative that celebrates resilience and advocates for meaningful change.
Our Story, Your Voice!
Grief Across Borders: Bereavement in the African Diaspora
Losing a loved one is never easy, but for Africans in the diaspora, grief comes with unique cultural, emotional, and logistical challenges. In this deeply personal episode of Our Story, Your Voice, hosts Judith Nyanjowa, Lilian Musiitwa, and Rose Ssali explore how African migrant communities navigate bereavement in a foreign land, far from the traditions and support systems of home.
The conversation is particularly poignant following the recent loss of a dear sister in the community, Rose Kabera Tariwale, whose life and contributions are honoured throughout the episode.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
🔹 The loneliness of grief in the diaspora - how mourning differs without the extended family and community support often found back home.
🔹 Cultural expectations vs. Western reality - the struggle to adapt traditional African mourning rituals to a fast-paced, individualistic society.
🔹 Financial and legal hurdles - the complexities of repatriation, funeral costs, and the emotional toll of not being able to travel for last goodbyes.
🔹 The trauma of unresolved grief - how COVID-19 restrictions and immigration status can make bereavement even harder.
🔹 The importance of community - why grassroots networks like SAWN (Support and Action for Women’s Network) play a crucial role in helping migrants cope with loss.
🔹 Breaking the silence on death - how normalising conversations about end-of-life planning can ease the burden on grieving families.
Through personal stories and shared wisdom, this episode creates a safe space for an open and honest conversation about loss, resilience, and the importance of honouring our traditions while adapting to new realities.
🎧 Tune in for an emotional and insightful discussion on what it means to grieve as an African in the diaspora, and how we find healing, even when home feels far away.
