Afro-diasporic Experiences of Highly Skilled Black African Immigrants in Australia

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study explored the experiences of skilled African immigrants in Australia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 individuals from different sub-Saharan African countries currently residing in South Australia. The findings report on the experiences of change, cultural identity, diasporic identities, employment, negotiating family dynamics, and the experiences of racial discrimination in Australia. These findings call for considerations that address these inequities, including culturally sensitive practice by social services, employers, and the wider society. Understanding the experiences of African migrants in Australia is particularly relevant for decolonised, critical social work practice, which takes the emphasis away from an individual’s ability to cope by examining how social environments shape such experiences. IMPLICATIONS Advocacy to address racism and discrimination towards African migrants in Australia is necessary. Fostering support for African migrants as they develop a diasporic identity and adapt to changes in family dynamics is encouraged. Developing culturally sensitive social support services for African immigrants is necessary for integration.