With the ongoing celebration of Black people and all things black around us, I decided to add a little African spice to this platform. You must have been following along my posts for a while and you may be thinking “where is she from?”
On Today’s Blog post, I will be sharing a more about who I am, where I am from and how I ended up in the US. First, if you haven’t yet subscribed to My Blog, kindly hit the menu button above and fill out your email address.
There is so much beauty and excellence in Black culture. The people, the beautiful dark skin, the food, the culture, the attires, the elaborate ceremonies, the lifestyle etc is magnificent! I can go on and on about how Incredible being Black is, but I am sure you already know, at least the faintest idea of how we are resonates with you.
I am 100% certain you have come across at least 10 Black people in your entire life, but my question remains “How many are your true friends?” If at the end of reading this, you have no single black friend, I encourage you to do so, in other to enjoy the richness and greatness this heritage has to offer.
I am originally from Nigeria, Rivers State to be specific, both of my parents are Nigerians and I have three siblings. The first two were born in the UK and my immediate oldest brother and myself, were born in Nigeria. My parents lived and schooled in the UK before returning back to Nigeria in the late 70s. Since then, they have continuously lived there, while traveling and vacating in other countries round the world.
Coming from a Traditional African Home like mine, it was a necessity to learn the culture, integrate with extended family members and be aware of how the family dynamics work. My father is good at keeping us informed on all the traditional and family gimick.
I lived in Nigeria majority if not my entire young age, and moved to the UK in 2014, to obtain a Masters Degree were I studied Oil and Gas Law, after which I got married two years later and moved to the US to live with my husband George, and now we have a son together. In between all of these happening, I connected deeply with my Nigerian roots, which keeps me focused and grounded even with my current lifestyle here in the US.
The Nigerian dishes oh my! If you love spices, then you will love our tasty meals which isn’t particular to just Nigeria but most African countries. I have been opportune to dine with other African, and tried out their meals and oh, I went back for more.
The colorful attires, the Ankara (fabrics), the Gele (head wraps), the styles and our parties are always elaborate. The outfit is what gets me, as our styles continue to evolve, using the same Ankara we have owned for YEARS. Being African especially Nigerian, you will learn quickly how to tie Gele (Head wrap) as it is a signature attire for women. Did I mention how we adorn ourselves with jewelries? Yes that’s part of the attire.
It is a culture, rich in fresh delicious meals, beautiful clothes, and loving people. I don’t go a week in my house without making a Nigerian dish. I introduced it early to my toddler when he was 4 months and since then, he has eaten all the native dishes we have made.
Lastly, you don’t want to miss any Nigerian wedding or parties. They are one of a kind, with lots of food, drinks and music. A true definition of happy people coming together to dance and dine in beautiful attires. It is something I hope you can attend some day.
I hope you did enjoy this post, don’t forget to leave your comments and suggestions while you subscribe with your email address. Also stay connected with me on Instagram @joyebenspiff. and Youtube Joy Eben-Spiff. has more tips on thrifting, fashion and beauty.