Samuel Oriza grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, before moving to the United Kingdom, then New York City, and eventually Canada, where he now lives. Fascinated by Western culture, and because many of his friends had already gone abroad to study, Oriza decided to do the same. While attending university in the U.K., a friend in New York told him school was "easier" there and that, unlike in the U.K., police would not question his immigration status. In 1988, Oriza moved to New York City, now living with that same friend. 

Before coming to America, Oriza had never heard of the American Dream. He came to understand it as the belief that no matter what one does in America, they will succeed. He enjoyed living in New York, naturally gravitating toward fellow Nigerians, who provided a sense of safety while abroad. He attended a predominantly Nigerian church and Nigerian parties. As Nigeria's economy declined, however, he realized he would likely not return home and thus, wanted to become more American, hoping to build a sense of belonging where he now expected to spend his life.

Oriza believes he was on his way to achieving his version of the American Dream until problems with his immigration status changed everything. After receiving a letter about his status, he became consumed by uncertainty. In 2000, he moved to Canada, where he preferred the slower pace and resolved his immigration status.

The object Oriza chose is Kaffir Boy, a memoir he read shortly after arriving in America. It reinforced his belief that he could build a successful life through hard work in America.

– Simone Oduola

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant