Love Notes

Love across cultures: dating someone from a different African country or background

A Ghanaian and a Kenyan. A Nigerian and a Jamaican. Different backgrounds can make a beautiful marriage. Here's how.

By Coach KJ Mensah, founder of AfroDuo and relationship coach

The diaspora brings people together who might never have met at home. That's a gift, and it comes with some learning.

Be curious, not judgmental

Ask about food, language, holidays and family traditions. Let them teach you.

Learn the family customs

Marriage rites differ widely: knocking ceremonies, introductions, bride price, church and traditional weddings. Talk about expectations early.

Talk about language at home

Which languages will your children learn? It's a lovely question to plan together.

Handle stereotypes together

Friends or relatives might joke or doubt. Stand as a team and let your relationship speak for itself.

When two cultures meet with respect, your home can hold the best of both.