Homecoming: What It Means to Return

In this episode of Japa Diaries, we’re talking about homecoming, literally and emotionally. Timilehin joins Abimisola and Malik to share the deeply personal story of returning to Nigeria after 15 years in the U.S. following the passing of his grandmother.

From revisiting childhood spaces that felt both familiar and strange, to reconnecting with family members he hadn’t seen in over a decade, Timilehin opens up about the mix of grief, joy, and healing that comes with returning home.

We explore what it means to come back as a changed person, how culture shifts after living abroad, and why returning to your roots can be such a grounding, transformative experience. If you’ve ever wondered what “home” really means, or felt that tug between where you are and where you come from, this episode will hit you right in the heart.

Keywords: homecoming, returning home, Nigerian diaspora, cultural identity, family reunion, grief, belonging, reconnecting with roots, heritage, emotional journey.

Early bird tickets are almost gone! Get tickets to our game night event now: japadiaries.com/event