E93: Hugo Onuoha doesn't miss Nigerian food, weather, or culture

Hello, I'd really like to grow this email list. If you enjoy this newsletter, it would mean the world to Jola and I if you encouraged one friend/fellow immigrant/colleague to subscribe…Very likely, the the only thing you will get in return is warm fuzzy feelings, and if I can attribute it to you, I’d personally send you a thank you email.

Join us as we explore the bitter-sweet world of the immigrant.

In this episode, I'm speaking with Hugo Onuoha, who moved to the UK twice –first as a student, then years later as a working professional with his family.

Prior to this episode, I've always believed that immigrating as a student makes it a bit easier to settle in, integrate, and get going. Hugo's story challenged that belief. This is why I now say that the immigrant isn't a monolith. Everyone's story is different.

During his first stay in the UK, he experienced such intense homesickness that he shortened his degree program from four years to three just to return to Nigeria faster. Yet surprisingly, seven years later, he found himself drawn back to the same country – this time with a completely different experience and outlook.

I also found it particularly fascinating that unlike many immigrants, including his wife, he doesn't pine for Nigerian food, weather, or culture. As he puts it, “Apart from family, I don't really miss much.”

In this conversation, Hugo and I chat about the economic realities that had me reconsidering the UK. We also explore:

* What it means to create your identity beyond national boundaries

* Finding gratitude in the immigrant journey

* Maintaining relationships with family and friends back home

* His first vs. second “missionary journey”

One Ask

If you found this story helpful, please forward or share it to one immigrant out there.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thenewcomerspod.com