When I first moved to Nigeria, everyone kept saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” But everything in me was shouting, “Do as Jesus has called you to do!” I knew I couldn’t just blend in. Nothing in me was ready to keep my head down, and quietly fit into the rhythm of Naija life. I understood when Jesus, the prince of peace said, ““Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword.” So I had to decide that the only way I can thrive here is to be unapologetically me.
What Does That Even Mean?
Being unapologetically me means showing up fully as Chevaunne—Canadian accent, bold ideas, faith-driven vision, and all the quirks that make me different. Some people may raise their eyebrows when I ask too many questions at the market, or when I show up with my notebook and color-coded plans, but that’s okay. I wasn’t created to shrink.
The Bible reminds me in Psalm 139 that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. That includes my Canadian upbringing, my kingdom-minded ambition, my “oyinbo babe in Naija” energy, and my deep love for yam porridge.
The Daily Balance
Living unapologetically here is a mix of small choices and big faith. It looks like:
- Rocking my natural hair and microlocs even when aunties say, “Ah ah, why you no relax it?” And trust me, every day, there’s someone with something to say.
- Speaking up in meetings with my accent and asking the questions that challenge the status quo.
- Creating content that blends faith + lifestyle instead of trying to “tone it down” so it fits in a box.
- Praying boldly before making decisions—even when Naija culture says “just do it fast.” Everything is urgent… but I want to hear from the Lord first, Thank you very much!
What I’ve Learned
Nigeria is not a place for the faint of heart, but it’s also the best classroom for authenticity. This country teaches resilience, courage, and creativity daily. I’ve learned that if you’re not firm in who you are, Nigeria will try to mold you into what’s convenient for them. And sis, I refuse!!
I’m here to serve, to love, to build, to create. But I’m also here as myself. God didn’t send me to Nigeria to become a watered-down or Nigerian version of me—He sent me here to shine as the woman He created, flaws, faith, and all.
Final Thoughts
To every woman reading this—whether you’re in Lagos, London, or Los Angeles—don’t dim your light to fit in. Don’t apologize for your background, your voice, your vision, or your faith. The world (and Nigeria especially) needs your full, authentic self.
If this post encouraged you, share it with a sister who sometimes feels the pressure to shrink. And if you’re ready to walk boldly in your God-given identity, keep following my journey as I share more faith, culture, and unapologetic living—Canadian Babe turned Naija Wife style.
Then my book The Beautiful You: Redefining Beauty According to God’s Terms is your next step. It’s a faith-filled guide for Christian women who are ready to heal from false identities, embrace their God-given worth, and live unapologetically bold.
Don’t just read my story—start your own. 💜
👉🏾 Grab your copy of my E-book today and begin walking confidently in the woman God created you to be.
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