5 Things I Wish I Knew About the Western World Growing Up in Africa

Reflections on culture, identity, and the lessons that shaped me

Growing up in Africa comes with its own unique rhythm one filled with resilience, strong community bonds, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. But like many kids who grew up hearing stories of “the Western world,” I built an image in my mind that didn’t always align with reality. I thought the West was a land of endless wealth, perfection, and opportunities just waiting to be picked off the ground.

As I grew older, traveled, connected with others, and immersed myself in global conversations, I realized that the reality of the Western world was far more complex and far more human than what I had imagined as a child. Looking back, there are a few things I wish I had known earlier. They would have saved me from some disappointments, helped me appreciate my African upbringing more, and given me a better perspective on life.

Here are five of the biggest lessons I’ve learned.

1. The Western World Is Not as Perfect as It Looks

As a child, I believed the West was flawless where streets were clean, technology flawless, and people always happy. That’s the image we often saw in movies, music videos, and glossy magazines. But the truth is, no society is perfect. Poverty, inequality, and even loneliness exist everywhere, including the West.

When I first interacted with people living abroad, I realized that behind the skyscrapers and fast Wi-Fi connections, many face struggles similar to those in Africa: bills to pay, mental health challenges, broken families, and pressure to “keep up” with society.

This was eye-opening because it made me realize that while Africa has its challenges, we also have strengths that Western societies admire like community spirit, hospitality, and resilience. The grass may look greener on the other side, but every lawn has its patches of dry grass.

2. Opportunity Exists Everywhere But It Looks Different

One of the biggest myths I believed was that opportunities only existed in the Western world. I thought success was guaranteed just by living there. What I later discovered is that while opportunities may be more visible and accessible in some Western systems, they still require hard work, persistence, and a clear vision.

In Africa, opportunities might not always come packaged neatly, but they exist. Sometimes they are hidden in local businesses, cultural creativity, or community leadership. The challenge is learning to recognize them and being willing to create your own path instead of waiting for doors to open.

What the Western world taught me is that opportunity is less about location and more about mindset. A determined person with vision in Africa can do just as much as someone abroad. The tools may differ, but the principle is the same: work, resilience, and innovation create opportunities.

3. Individualism vs. Community: A Cultural Shift

In Africa, I grew up in a culture where community was everything. Neighbors acted like family, and sharing even when you had little was part of daily life. In the West, however, I noticed that individualism is highly valued. Independence and self-sufficiency are celebrated, but sometimes at the expense of connection.

Neither approach is right or wrong they’re just different. But as an African kid, I wish I had known earlier that moving to or engaging with the West might feel lonely at first. People may not check in on you daily, not because they don’t care, but because the culture values personal space.

The beauty, I realized, lies in balance. From Africa, I carried the warmth of community, and from the West, I learned the importance of personal boundaries and independence. Both are valuable lessons that make life richer when combined.

4. Success Is Defined Differently

As a child, I thought success in the West only meant wealth, luxury, and material comfort. It seemed like everyone there lived in big houses, drove expensive cars, and traveled freely. But the reality is more nuanced. Many Westerners define success differently sometimes through careers, personal freedom, travel experiences, or even inner peace.

This realization changed my perspective. It taught me that success is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Whether in Africa or the West, success should align with personal values, not just external appearances. For me, success became less about material symbols and more about impact, creativity, and the relationships I build along the way.

5. Africa Prepared Me More Than I Realized

Perhaps the most important lesson of all is that my African upbringing prepared me in ways I never fully appreciated. Growing up with fewer resources taught me resilience, creativity, and gratitude. Sports instilled discipline, scriptures grounded my values, and the strong sense of adventure gave me courage to try new things.

When I interacted with people from the West, I realized these qualities were not only valuable but admired. Many were curious about my background and inspired by the strength and adaptability it gave me.

I used to think I was missing out by not being born in the West, but now I see that my upbringing was a gift. It shaped me into someone who can adapt, innovate, and thrive anywhere in the world.

Final Reflection

If I could go back and talk to my younger self, I would say: The Western world is not a paradise, but neither is it a disappointment. It’s simply another world with strengths and struggles, just like Africa.

What matters most is not where you are born but what you learn from your environment. Africa gave me resilience. The West gave me perspective. And together, they shaped the person I am becoming.

So to any young African kid dreaming of the Western world: dream big, but also look closely at the soil you are standing on. There is greatness in your roots, and it will carry you further than you imagine.