Mo' Sibyl

뿌리를 위하여| Back to the Roots: Why I Sent My American Kid to a Nigerian Boarding School — The One With Dr. Elizabeth Ajayi-Bridges | Episode 26 (2025)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 뿌리를 위하여| Back to the Roots: Why I Sent My American Kid to a Nigerian Boarding School — The One With Dr. Elizabeth Ajayi-Bridges | Episode 26 (2025)

Can you imagine sending your 8-year-old back to your home country for school after immigrating to another country? Before you say, “Heck no!” Especially my Naija people, you might want to listen to this episode.

This week, we’re joined by the remarkable Dr. Elizabeth Ajayi-Bridges: educator, community builder, founder, and mother extraordinaire. We both met in boarding school almost three decades ago. In this captivating conversation, she takes us on a journey through her life as a Nigerian-American woman shaped by both Brooklyn and boarding school. And yes, she made the bold decision to send her American-born daughter back to Nigeria for high school, not as a punishment, but as an intentional investment in identity, discipline, and legacy.

From her own cross-continental upbringing to raising bicultural children, Dr. Elizabeth shares how early immersion in a Nigerian boarding school (beginning at age 8) sharpened her independence, forged resilience, and even earned her an unforgettable nickname. We unpack what it means to truly belong, as she redefines home not as a zip code but as “where you make an impact.”

This episode is for every parent questioning how to raise grounded kids in a culture that often feels disconnected from their roots, and for anyone navigating the in-between of heritage and new beginnings. We also explore her passion for civic leadership, the role of faith, and how she’s preparing the next generation to lead with both heart and heritage.

Tune in now to learn why, for some families, going “back” can be a powerful step forward.

Contact Dr. Elizabeth directly: e.ajayibridges@gmail.com

Let her know you found her through The More Sibyl Podcast.

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 다시 돌아가자| The One with FEGGO Girls - We Were Once Girls: Episode 3 (2020)

Here’s an episode about a flashback. To a time when we were girls, and our earthy possessions could be condensed into two Ghana-must-go boxes. To a time when colored checkered house wears and white shirts and pinafores were as unique as identifiers as social media handles. To a time when mobile phones were non-existent, and the only source of entertainment we had was found within and through ourselves. To a time when we made music with plates, pots, stainless steel pots, Vinod cutlery, banging school desks to produce beats. When we tucked in our blue-dyed white blouses, flew our white shorts, shortened our skirts, and oiled our eyebrow and lips with Vaseline. To a time when chewing gum, eating sardines, scaling walls were as Kosher as putting the “#” after the operative word.

Evoked enough nostalgia in you or not?

Here’s an episode about the six years we spent in boarding house – the defining moments, friendships made, myths and folklores, our impressions of each other, the labors we endured, and most importantly, how all these have shaped us into the fine women we are today. You will hear from two of my good friends – Kehinde Melbury (Tinubu (pink) house, formerly of SS3D, and now customs officer at the Nigerian Customs Service) and Dr. Olivia Fasola (Manuwa (blue) house, formerly of SS3E, and a family physician).

PS: This episode was shot in January during a sleepover at Dr. Fasola’s house when it was still legal to be in close proximity to people.

PPS: With a single click, you can now rate the podcast. Kindly leave a rating/comment:

Link: RateThisPodcast.com/mosibyl

이민 연대기| The One with Five Immigration Stories - On Mental Anguish and Familial Separation: Episode 40 (2019)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: The One with Five Immigration Stories - On Mental Anguish and Familial Separation

Life in the United States ain’t easy; contrary to what many people think. In this episode, I share five unique immigration stories of people who moved to the US on different tracks. The common thread here is how they all overcame a lot of odds to be where they are today. The hope is to encourage those who are currently in these situations to never give up, especially international students who feel trapped in the US, particularly at this time of the year.

For those in the position to do this, reach out to an international student and if possible, invite them over for Christmas for dinner or something. Or even engage them in conversations and you will be amazed at how much these acts of kindness will go a long way.

PS: Thanks to Ada U, Olabimpe, Linda J, T-Dawg, and Morin for sharing their inspiring stories.