Episode 72: Between Two Worlds: The Experiences of Aging, Identity, and Belonging Among Older African Immigrants in America — featuring Prof. Manka Nkimbeng

Dr. Manka Nkimbeng, an Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health and a community-engaged nurse scientist. Dr. Nkimbeng is an African immigrant whose personal and professional journey fuels her research on health equity, aging, and dementia, especially among minority and immigrant older adults. Dr. Nkimbeng earned her Ph.D. in Nursing from Johns Hopkins University, a Master’s degree in Public Health from Boston University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She also completed the Robert L. Kane Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Minnesota.Drawing from her studies “Where to Retire? Experiences of Older African Immigrants in the United States” and “All I Know Is That There Is a Lot of Discrimination,” Dr. Nkimbeng shares groundbreaking insights into how older African immigrants navigate complex questions of identity, belonging, and retirement in America.This conversation explores aging, migration, and the concept of belonging among the older generation of African immigrants in the United States. Dr. Nkimbeng highlights the resilience of older African immigrants who continue to navigate two worlds. Whether you are an immigrant, a health professional, a policymaker, or a community advocate, this conversation offers valuable insights into how culture, discrimination, and community influence the aging experience in America.Together, we examine the factors that influence whether older African immigrants choose to remain in the U.S. or return to their countries of origin — from access to healthcare and family support to cultural identity and community connections. The conversation also delves into how discrimination, both institutional and interpersonal, impacts the mental and physical health of African immigrants as they age, and the coping strategies they use to survive and thrive.The takeawaysCultural engagement is vital for immigrant communities.Navigating dual identities can be challenging for immigrants.Discrimination often comes from within the community as well.Family expectations play a significant role in academic success.Building bridges between cultures enhances community support.Research on African immigrants is often overshadowed.Community-based participatory research is essential for effective studies.Retirement decisions are influenced by notions of home.Healthcare access is a critical issue for older immigrants.End-of-life planning is often neglected in immigrant communities.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Dr. Nkimbeng04:17 Dr. Nkimbeng's Personal Journey and Identity12:31 Cultural Values and Academic Success17:49 Research Challenges and Community Engagement23:49 Exploring the Concept of Home for Immigrants28:54 Healthcare Access and Social Support34:56 Cultural Identity and Belonging41:17 Identity Formation and Cultural Integration46:31 Challenges of Professional Identity and Respect51:56 Community Engagement and the Importance of Connection55:05 Understanding Racial Discrimination in Immigrant Experiences01:04:10 Coping Mechanisms for Discrimination01:12:15 Cultural Humility in Healthcare and Community Support