Ep 3. Between 2 Shores

Between 2 Shores is the third episode of season 10 of Afropop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange. This particular episode explores the unique experiences of African immigrants who are trying to navigate their lives in Europe while also dealing with the challenges that come with just being African.

The show takes viewers on a journey through various European locations, including Paris, Barcelona, and the Danish countryside. Along the way, we meet several African men and women who have left their homelands for various reasons, such as pursuing education, finding better job opportunities, or seeking safety and security.

The first stop is Paris, where we meet Nigerian immigrant Sharon. She discusses her experiences as an African woman trying to make a life in the City of Light, including facing discrimination and feeling like she has to prove herself constantly. These challenges are juxtaposed with the beauty and vibrancy of the city, highlighting the dichotomy of being an immigrant in Europe.

We also get to know Tunde, a Nigerian man living in Denmark with his Danish wife and their children. Tunde reflects on the challenges of living in a country where he is a minority, dealing with discrimination from both the white populace and other African immigrants who view him as not "African enough."

Next, we travel to Barcelona, where we meet Kenyan immigrant Yvonne. She shares her experiences working as a domestic helper for a wealthy family in the city, discussing the challenges of being separated from her children and the daily pressures of her job, all while trying to maintain a positive attitude.

The episode also explores the experiences of African immigrants who have chosen to leave Europe and return to their homelands. We follow Buba, a Senegalese man who lived in Paris for many years before returning home to start a business. As he navigates the complexities of running his own enterprise, he reflects on the challenges of trying to navigate between two worlds and the ultimate decision to return to his roots.

Between 2 Shores is a deeply personal and insightful look into the experiences of African immigrants living in Europe. The episode explores themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle to maintain a sense of self in the face of constant pressure from both inside and outside of the community. Ultimately, it highlights the resilience and determination of these individuals to carve out a life and thrive despite all odds.