Agape Foh-Amoaning is an international student from Zambia which is in South Central Africa. Foh-Amoaning is majoring in nursing and hopes to become a Nurse Practitioner. She has been attending WNMU for a year now. Foh-Amoaning participates in the Mustangs Care Club and Arts Club. She has a work-study position in the Facilities Department.
The Mustang Newspaper Staff interviewed Agape Foh-Amoaning to learn about her experience at WNMU and about her culture.
Q: Why did you choose WNMU? Do you miss home?
A: I am here because I like school. It is very far from home. Yes, I miss home so much. This semester, it has been hard for me missing home. I chose to come to school in the US because this place is really good for work experience. After completing my degree, I want to go back and practice in my country.
Q: Who has been a hero in your life?
A: My mom. She believes everything is possible. She has this mindset of having to think there is nothing impossible.
Q: Have you experienced any racism, and how did you react to that situation? How have these events affected your life?
A: I have experienced it. Unfortunately, it wasn’t by a white person. It was usually from African-Americans. I got turned down. We are people of the same color, but we are different people. I didn’t react to it. It was just shocking and it’s sad. I expected that people from the same color were friendlier towards each other. It hasn’t affected me, but I am worried about those people who are racists. They need to get over certain things because it is sad to see them act that way towards us.
Q: What is a song that reminds you of your culture?
A: There are so many! I haven’t been listening to music lately from my country because it is becoming more modernized and influenced by western culture. I do have a song that reminds me of my country. It is by PK Chishala. He was a very good musician. He plays music based on African instruments, especially instruments from Zambia. The song is named Na Musonda. It is a story about a parent telling a child, when she gets married, what she must do. When she gets married, she forgets what she is supposed to do and does the complete opposite. His songs were written in the form of a story. It is really interesting.
Q: What are your thoughts about the state of African Americans/ Black people today?
A: I feel most of them are struggling with their identity. Not all of them are like that, but some are in search of themselves. Some are trying their best to make a difference and pick it up!
Q: Do you feel your people are more accepted into today’s society?
A: Wherever you go, there will always be segregation. Many societies will accept you.
Q: Why should we keep celebrating Black History Month?
A: We should keep celebrating to remind us of who we are and where we come from. It is easy to get influenced by anything. There is a saying that states, “You become the people you hang out with.” The western culture has shaped many cultures around the world. Black History Month will remind us of who we are!
