From my experience, it’s not about accent but they way we pronounce certain words. Learning to pronounce the words appropriately makes a big difference.
Learning to pronounce like them could also be a way to sound like them. The way i have always addressed this is to speak at my pace and clearly too. I dont have to sound or pronounce stuff like them.
I migrated to the US 11 years ago for school and eventually started working in corporate upon graduation. Here's my take: there is value in adapting to your environment as best you can (not forced) to command respect, build confidence and avoid situations where you're overly asked to repeat yourself. The key is to speak slower and more intentionally. I'm a fast talker and I had to learn to slow down. I don't think that's fake. People still sometimes ask me where I'm from cause I don't sound 100% American (don't plan to). Intonation is another thing. You can adapt to intonation without necessarily changing your accent. In my first year in US, when I'm asked to "say that again" multiple times, I realized something has to change cause repeating myself is not fun for me at all. Also in terms of other cultures with stronger accents, we (Nigerians) hear them well cause our ears are attuned to various languages. For Americans, not so much. If those other cultures share their own struggles with their accent, it's very heartbreaking. But then again English is not their first language in most cases. So I applaud them cause I can't imagine living and working in a country where English is not the official language.
I don't think switching your accent makes you a fake person. It's just an accent, speak whichever way makes you comfortable or communicate with people effectively.
I think all we need is just to be clear as to how when we speak and be understandable. I need to call you. Great topic that is a strong debate, and I address this always to my students in class to be real. ❤
@@adedoyinosahon6252 I agree with you. My issue is when my own is giving me a hard time for not switching. I don't want to switch. I like sounding authentic and globalising my accent.
Multiple nuggets in one video. Thanks Marina. Just so you know, one of the reasons I’m a subscriber here is because you are an eloquent speaker. As far as this topic goes, my take is to enunciate when speaking. That way, you’ll be understood unless of course, the person on the receiving end has another agenda! We all have accents and they’re a part of our identity. Period!
For me I moved to the UK about 2 years ago and honestly I have retained my accent but obviously learnt how to pronounce some words better because my kids will always correct my English. I’ll like to use my kids to explain the way I understand this accent Stuff, they’re currently 9 and 7 years old so when they came into UK they already had a well defined Nigerian accent. For the first one year I didn’t notice any significant change in their accent and usually family friends would point it out to me that my kids are taking too long to change but I wasn’t bothered. Later I realized that they had actually picked the British accent and were speaking it among their mates but will revert to the Nigerian accent when with me. So the way I see it for some people is like learning a new language which some people are good at doing and kids are obviously better at. Just the way you go to the market and automatically switch to pidgin English or your native language in order to be understood better and then when you get to office you switch to a polished English because that’s the language of the environment. I don’t intend changing accent but I feel if anyone finds it convenient then no problem. For now I’m encouraging my kids to keep speaking the Nigerian accent at home, I kind of like it 😀
Hi Marina, thank you for the educational content you're sharing-kudos to you! Regarding the accent issue, this has been my experience: When I first came to Canada, I found it challenging that, despite speaking clearly and being myself, people often didn’t understand me. I frequently heard 'pardon' or 'can you repeat that? When I realized it was becoming too frequent, I started listening closely to how they pronounce certain words and began mimicking their pronunciation. This has saved me from constantly hearing 'pardon' or being asked to repeat myself. So, I've adopted an approach of learning their pronunciation to save myself a lot of stress.
Absolutely correct! If you don't use their accent you are seen like who is this illiterate? But when you use their accent, they are happier to make conversation with them!
@@adeolaawoleke1894 In my opinion conforming to this ideology is not ideal,imagine saying you don't understand any other English accent aside our Naija accent. It's same as saying they can't pronounce our native names except English names which is purely lies because I hear commentors pronouncing the names of Igbo,Yoruba,Chinese etc footballers names very perfectly. They just want to make one feel uncomfortable around them but na for person wey no get confidence.
Absolutely. This is part of the adjustment I referred to. I did the same, and it worked. You can adjust and still remain authentic. Thank you very much for sharing this.
Thank you for this. It is spot on! I recently had an experience where the first question I was asked during an interview by an acclaimed "irish-canadian" was how I was going to get a Canadian accent even after acknowledging that I speak correct English. It takes a level of confidence to face the subtle racism existing in Canada.
This is called code switching and to be honest there are benefits to it in certain circumstances. Personally, i have no problem code switching for my benefit or that of my loved ones when needed.
I am a Nigerian professional working at senior management level in health sector. My colleagues (all white) love my accent regardless of how it sound. The main koko is competence !
Thank you very much. I have been on interview panels with executives across multiple levels of leaderships and i can relate. An educated nigerian does not need any switching to be understood.
Changing your accent isn’t changing who you are because accents aren’t an inborn part of us-they’re shaped by the environment we grow up in. They reflect our social surroundings, not our identity. If your accent doesn’t add value or creates barriers in communication, adapting it for clarity and connection isn’t losing yourself-it’s making sure your message is understood. Let’s be real: we all struggle with accents that are hard to follow, and comedians make jokes about it for a reason. It’s human to want clear communication. Like the saying goes, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Being adaptable is about blending in without losing yourself, making your voice resonate in any room.
Calling a spade by it's right name, it is an identity issue. Inferiority complex can manifest in many ways, even among seemingly "successful people". I almost fell into this trap until, (I believe it is God that probably brought it to my attention), I noticed that when Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie were speaking you could tell they are Africans and what region of Nigeria they were from. I realized the former attended Harvard and we know its the brightest of the bright that gets in there, so which means she probably got there in her teens or early twenties and she has worked since then among none Africans. So for at least 5 decades she has probably worked mostly among none Africans but has kept her identity especially her accent. I respect these women greatly for this. I saw Malema of South Africa say he loves Nigerians because they are so bold and do not try to switch up accent, I said I pray o. But for the most part, I believe we have more people in this generation who are staying true to their African culture now than previous generations of Western Settlers. Like you also rightly mentioned, all humans have accent. As long as we are not from same place we must sound differently from each other. Inside the US, we hear of the Texan accent. In UK they talk of Cockney. Africans must embrace our Africanness, it is what makes us unique. We will keep losing respect when we try to be like others. When I relocated I suddenly started feeling very artificial and second class in wigs. I still wear them today but not depending on it for beauty like in the past. It is me embracing my identity. I cannot stand before God and be defending why I wanted to be like what He definitely did not want me to be. God see oyibo before He create me as African. I trust His judgment.
You can keep your accent and that's respectable. I am one of those that like "try" to speak like natives - i pronounce "automatically" the way a native speaker would. I don't troll someone who prefers speaking in a non-native way. The trouble comes when someone tries to troll me for trying to speak what I consider a native way, as if I don't have anything to troll them about their way of speaking. I like it when foreigners perfect their pronunciation of words in my own native language (Swahili) and admire them for that effort. And some have a knack of picking up accents easily and it's their talent. They should not be shamed or looked down upon as if those who can't pick up accents or switch them are morally superior.
Absolutely spot on. Communicate clearly, they would hear you over time just as you have gotten to hear them without straining your ears. If you were not born here or immigrated as a child, your accent would stand out no matter how much you try.
One thing I admire about you my darling is how you've preserved your authenticity. It shows through in everything you do. It's one of the reasons I value your friendship and hold your words so dear. You are a real one girl! The Nigerian accent is beautiful to hear. Speak and pronounce your words clearly and correctly, in the right diction. IF you're going for a borrowed accent, do it just as good as them. We all go dey alright. Much love ✨️✨️💖💖😘
Well said Marina, I am a South African and I have learnt to slow down and lower the pitch of my voice and it has worked. Why people change their accents baffles me, I love my accent and I will never change it. Read the room, rephrase certain words but never who you are.
It's just humanely. They do the same if you're observant . E.g, if you're a Nigerian, as a Yoruba check when communicating with an Igbo seller or Hausa and you'd realise you adjusted your accent for better understanding.
Actually, no, I have never observed this anywhere around me. Not even in Nigeria. To the context of the video, the concern is about the how and the why. This accent thing even shows up among fellow Nigerians. You are talking to a nigerian, and you have a conc accent that combines US and UK undertones? This table needed the shaking.
This is me 100%! People close to me have called me out since Nigeria that I switch to sound closer to who I'm speaking to..With my family in home town I'd switch to the upcountry Yoruba, in Lagos I'd use the common eko accent, with artisans or at the market I'd use pidgin or a stronger yoruba depending on how the person sounds, I've had to use bad grammar in instances where the person I'm speaking to finds it hard to understand English, and this is both home and abroad. The truth is even though I may not be a master of any of all these speaking types, I just do it subconsciously without thinking anyone is lesser or better than me. It will take a deliberate and conscious effort to stop myself from switching.
Hi Marina, very good educative content. You do a very good job. I completely agree with you. I lived in the UK for 4yrs, have lived in Canada for 10yrs. Doing very well for myself while maintaining my strong Igbo Anambra accent lol. Hopefully, I will see you in person, when next we have an event here in Saskatoon.
Thank you Marina for addressing this issue. The matter tire me . When people try to change their accent it always sounds so funny and fake. My opinion is that it comes out of trying to be wannabe 😂😂Just ensure your pronunciations are understandable. I always say it l am proudly Nigerian!!!!!!
I am 1st generation Canadian and I have a work voice. It's not just about accent, its tone and pitch. My work voice is about 2 octaves higher. I smile and sit up when answering the phone to lift my voice and emote a cheerful persona. Just sound bubbling you'll be ok.
Thank you Marina for making this video. My former boss is always having problems hearing me when I speak. I asked other of my colleagues if they can hear me and they said yes, that's when I know it's her problem and not mine.
I love ❤ your sit-down video. 😊 i hardly comment but i have watched you for over 3 yrs now. I love ❤️ your accent 😍 my hubby is Nigerian and one thing he had to learn is to tone down his voice at work, but other than that, people love the way he sounds while talking. You remind me of Asha Darling. Thank you for sharing about mental health 🙏🏽 ❤️ that's a topic dear to my heart. Lots of love from Finland 🇫🇮
Lol. When you work with kids, you'd understand. To each his own. If you like switching, do so. Whatever happens, do you. Switching accent doesn't change who you are. Like we know, switching is the game, when we speak to people who can easily understand us, we switch again! All I am saying, whatever suits an individual. Be happy, no sweat, no worries! Thanks for the video. You are you.
It is more about the why than the how. Comparing dealing with kids and thr situationbi presented isn't comparing apples to apples. I get what you mean, but in all, let's embrace authenticity.
When I came to Canada, I was speaking just my normal English until I noticed the whites don’t seem to understand my English. Just when I switched up that they started understanding. It’s really tough trying to maintain our Nigerian English to be honest.
I called SGI last month and heard a Jamaican- of course I asked- are you Jamaican? We greated each other and it felt so good. I also met a Jamaican HR employee on the phone. She recognised me through my accent. We are friends now. I've never thought to even try and adjust my accent- I love it❤.
Sist this subject is a big issue oooo. My kids are complaining their mates in class can't understand them. I simply told them to slow down when communicating to none Nigerians in school. I had such challenge when I resumed school as well but right now, am good to go. I had a presentation today and it was awesome. Thanks for this
I am with you here Marina,I am from delta state and I was raised in Benin and I can say I am a dota of the Edo soil, I don’t switch my accent in anyway I only just slow down. They too have an accent nd I try to understand them so they should try and understand me.
Im able to change my accent at work to sound 80 percent british (i think) it helps me to not have to repeat myself and gives me a sense of belonging. I dont fake it to my fellow Nigerians. Most people who complain about accent changes will do it if they could
Sis, this is hilarious to me, but I get it. I honestly don't understand why some Nigerians are stuck on putting pressure on this accent thing, it doesn't make you less or better. As long as you speak clearly and you're being understood, you are good to go. However, I had to adjust a little bit. I had to slow down when talking especially at work here in America. No one complained but I noticed my colleagues would repeat what I said. They had to do that because I spoke so fast that they had to repeat it back to me to make sure they didn't miss anything. I just always remind myself to slow down especially when I'm excited or passionate about what I'm talking about. Shout out to my American friends that are used to me talking. They are the real MVPs that catch every word I say because once I start, it's 60 words per millisecond lol.
Hahahahaha, as in! I have to catch myself when I am recording this videos to slow down, too. God bless the people who don't stand in the way of our authentic selfs.
Na identity crisis. My kids still talk with CLEAN Nija accents so much so that other kids try to copy them for how unique they sound. Me too. Co-workers are like "how come you sound so clean and not like ...." and I tell them "In Nigeria we speak English, we study English, thus our command of the language is usually at a scholarly level- for a lot of us, that is". Be confident, my people.
Here in the USA people with a stong southern accent are consided a lower uneducated social class. For instance saying ain't instead of is not. Is looked down on and can stop you from getting a job. Especially a high paying job working with well educated co-workers. It with not accent but the words used.
@path1400 I believe what you're referring to is Ebonics, not necessarily the accent. You can have a strong southern accent but still use proper words. Ex. She ain't coming vs. She's not coming.
This is how I see it. In Nigeria, People who could afford the top schools where phonetics is a serious business send their kids there without thinking twice. ..because English is not our language and competence is aiming for near perfection in speaking it. However, where I go get problem is where a parent doesn’t give thesame energy to their kids being good at their native language. That said, it is competence on different levels, if you could make native Canadians feel the most convenient conversing with you, and switch back so Nigerians can enjoy having conversation with you in English, even more, being dope when you go all in if you have to speak local dialect.. I vote for competence on all level. Good topic
Also know this and know peace😅, that if you grow up to 15yrs in casual Nigerian, there’s no way you can eradicate your accent no matter how proficient you become in speaking English.. it’s even sickening to know that Canadian English is not the best form of English. English Variations up and down 😂 their use of words are often different.. so that’s what you want to learn when in Canada
Hallelujah you’re not alone in this part of the world, about the accent people who said to others about accent they are just being stupid especially African who ask such questions.
Even in Nigeria I’ve tend to switch my Yoruba accent my first time in Ilorin, I felt some type of way speaking my Lagos Yoruba. Sometimes it’s necessary so they hear you. There’s one interview of Davido he was talking to a black American and the guy was like huh? Then he switched then he got him, it’s a skill we may have to learn. How ever you have a point. I don’t think Chimamnada switches but pronounce well. That in it self can be stressful
Makes sense. However, the realities of individuals could be very different. People who work in customer facing roles daily and whose communication with locals may affect their performance and job will need to do what is necessary in changing their accent which is one part learning to pronounce clearly and another part having the canadian accent.
Do you ever wonder how our asian colleagues do it? They dominate the customer service space now in Canada, and we understand them, don't we? I hear you though.
Accent switch is not needed at alllll. What we need is proper diction. I remember pronouncing bottle as "botul" and i had to write before my colleague got what I was saying😂. Now, i am sooo 'ba.dl' Meanwhile if i was in Britain, "botul" is the right pronunciation All in all, diction is the most important thing. I cannot let my tongue come and twist
I was confused at first. It felt like I was not following the trend. Infact when I first landed in Canada this conversation came up and I said “no be for old age I wan come learn left hand”. Already, I speak really clear and some people say it’s an accent. It’s sha not Canadian accent. Nobody really knows the accent I have. Only God knows the accent sha because even me I don’t know it. I sha know I cannot have a Canadian accent. I work in a client service role and I have had clients say things like “you have a hard accent”. I had to learn how to speak slowly and a lot more clearly. I admire people from other nationals whose accent is stronger than mine. They do not budge. They speak it as it is and just ensure they are audible. I learnt from them and firmed up my resolve to not fall for the pressure of having a “Canadian” accent.
Those our brothers and sisters from asia are the real deal here. If they can still do customer service roles, we will be fine. Some of us have fallen off the race towards accent. And we are fine.
"Man know thyself" Until, we individually realise how powerful we are...we will continue to be lost in every wave that blows. Meself....no understand how person way don old before them japa go begin dey speak from their noses within small time way dem enter obodo Oyinbo....make nay take am easy before nay go bite nay tongues o...😅
Its the Immigrant or visitor who always has the accent Not the native u found there, unless u predominantly work with or around people from back home immigrants will need to adapt to their new home in terms of accents if one wants to fit in, as time goes on u will figure out what works and what does Not, every immigrant comes to that realization at their on pace with time, the most frustrating thing is when u go back home to visit and those around u hear u speak your adapted accent and they start to make fun of u thinking that you're showing off which is not the case.
I honestly don't understand what it means to change accent especially amongst adults, with kids it's understand they pick it up easily but for a fully formed adult I just term it low self esteem. Just speak clearly and pronounce your words well.
For me I tend to sound like the people around me if I stay around them long enough. These days I sound like I am fluent in Shona because I work with people from Zimbabwe a lot. If you meet me you’d think I’m faking an accent, it’s just how language is for me. I pray say I nor speak accent oh🙄🙄🙄 e nor consain me😂😂😂 British oh American oh Canadian oh I go mix all.
Please I think this conversation comes from a place of low self esteem. The only issue with Nigerian accent is the speed of pronunciation and conversations but apart from that, we have a beautiful accent as a people. Please, let’s speak in our accent with pride
There are diverse accents all over the world. There's no need changing your accent. If you do, you'll sound ridiculous. Even Canadians(British, Americans etc) have their own accents.
I know of some one who came into Edmonton less than two years and she has changed her phonetics. She talks now like she is going to bite her tongue. Yorubas call them awon omo oju ori ola ri. Tueh to all of them.
If you’re going to switch your accent, please do it right cuz some of them sound very unauthentic. The one that annoys me is when Nigerians ‘westernize’ Nigeria names thereby making it meaningless. I mean, what’s that about? I see my white colleagues making an effort to pronounce our names correctly but my people feel a need to turn it into something else.
Hi Marina, Your perspective is really subjective and I don’t think you should speak generally. I have been told that I should ‘try to sound more like the locals’, oh ‘it is hard to hear you because of your accent’ Bla bla. They even offered to enroll me in a class to learn their accent! It just felt too bad and unaccepting for me and so I left for another place. Anyone that receives and internalize these kind of comments, could give in to it because they feel they have limited options. I am not in a race to lose my accent but I will also not put myself under any pressure to switch it.
The typical nigerian accent doesnt need that much. What you dealt with is micro aggression and a form of bullying which should not be normalized. Do you have Asians colleagues? Do they ever attempt to sound like locals? We work with them just fine, don't we? I am glad you left that place. Are you facing the same issue with your new employer?
@@MARINAESIRIby Asian are you referring to Indians? They also speak fast and are hard to comprehend sometimes. The other asians speak slower and lower tones but are also the group that conforms the most to “western”
From my experience, it’s not about accent but they way we pronounce certain words. Learning to pronounce the words appropriately makes a big difference.
I agree. And when you do things over time, it becomes more effortless and not forced.
Totally agree. This has been my experience.
Learning to pronounce like them could also be a way to sound like them. The way i have always addressed this is to speak at my pace and clearly too. I dont have to sound or pronounce stuff like them.
Exactly
I migrated to the US 11 years ago for school and eventually started working in corporate upon graduation. Here's my take: there is value in adapting to your environment as best you can (not forced) to command respect, build confidence and avoid situations where you're overly asked to repeat yourself. The key is to speak slower and more intentionally. I'm a fast talker and I had to learn to slow down. I don't think that's fake. People still sometimes ask me where I'm from cause I don't sound 100% American (don't plan to). Intonation is another thing. You can adapt to intonation without necessarily changing your accent. In my first year in US, when I'm asked to "say that again" multiple times, I realized something has to change cause repeating myself is not fun for me at all. Also in terms of other cultures with stronger accents, we (Nigerians) hear them well cause our ears are attuned to various languages. For Americans, not so much. If those other cultures share their own struggles with their accent, it's very heartbreaking. But then again English is not their first language in most cases. So I applaud them cause I can't imagine living and working in a country where English is not the official language.
I don't think switching your accent makes you a fake person. It's just an accent, speak whichever way makes you comfortable or communicate with people effectively.
It is more about the reason why and the how as against what is comfortable.
I think all we need is just to be clear as to how when we speak and be understandable. I need to call you. Great topic that is a strong debate, and I address this always to my students in class to be real. ❤
@@adedoyinosahon6252 I agree with you. My issue is when my own is giving me a hard time for not switching. I don't want to switch. I like sounding authentic and globalising my accent.
Multiple nuggets in one video. Thanks Marina. Just so you know, one of the reasons I’m a subscriber here is because you are an eloquent speaker.
As far as this topic goes, my take is to enunciate when speaking. That way, you’ll be understood unless of course, the person on the receiving end has another agenda!
We all have accents and they’re a part of our identity. Period!
For me I moved to the UK about 2 years ago and honestly I have retained my accent but obviously learnt how to pronounce some words better because my kids will always correct my English.
I’ll like to use my kids to explain the way I understand this accent Stuff, they’re currently 9 and 7 years old so when they came into UK they already had a well defined Nigerian accent. For the first one year I didn’t notice any significant change in their accent and usually family friends would point it out to me that my kids are taking too long to change but I wasn’t bothered. Later I realized that they had actually picked the British accent and were speaking it among their mates but will revert to the Nigerian accent when with me. So the way I see it for some people is like learning a new language which some people are good at doing and kids are obviously better at.
Just the way you go to the market and automatically switch to pidgin English or your native language in order to be understood better and then when you get to office you switch to a polished English because that’s the language of the environment.
I don’t intend changing accent but I feel if anyone finds it convenient then no problem.
For now I’m encouraging my kids to keep speaking the Nigerian accent at home, I kind of like it 😀
Hi Marina, thank you for the educational content you're sharing-kudos to you! Regarding the accent issue, this has been my experience: When I first came to Canada, I found it challenging that, despite speaking clearly and being myself, people often didn’t understand me. I frequently heard 'pardon' or 'can you repeat that? When I realized it was becoming too frequent, I started listening closely to how they pronounce certain words and began mimicking their pronunciation. This has saved me from constantly hearing 'pardon' or being asked to repeat myself. So, I've adopted an approach of learning their pronunciation to save myself a lot of stress.
Absolutely correct!
If you don't use their accent you are seen like who is this illiterate? But when you use their accent, they are happier to make conversation with them!
Well said. Thank you!!!
I totally agree with you faced same in the UK
@@adeolaawoleke1894
In my opinion conforming to this ideology is not ideal,imagine saying you don't understand any other English accent aside our Naija accent. It's same as saying they can't pronounce our native names except English names which is purely lies because I hear commentors pronouncing the names of Igbo,Yoruba,Chinese etc footballers names very perfectly. They just want to make one feel uncomfortable around them but na for person wey no get confidence.
Absolutely. This is part of the adjustment I referred to. I did the same, and it worked. You can adjust and still remain authentic. Thank you very much for sharing this.
Thank you for this. It is spot on! I recently had an experience where the first question I was asked during an interview by an acclaimed "irish-canadian" was how I was going to get a Canadian accent even after acknowledging that I speak correct English. It takes a level of confidence to face the subtle racism existing in Canada.
This is called code switching and to be honest there are benefits to it in certain circumstances. Personally, i have no problem code switching for my benefit or that of my loved ones when needed.
Good for you! Please help me understand where code switching has helped you. I appreciate additional perspectives that help me learn. Thanks
Well said! Code switching, agreed 💯. A skill that can be of benefit depending on the circumstance. Speaking from personal experience.
I am a Nigerian professional working at senior management level in health sector. My colleagues (all white) love my accent regardless of how it sound. The main koko is competence !
Thank you very much. I have been on interview panels with executives across multiple levels of leaderships and i can relate. An educated nigerian does not need any switching to be understood.
@@phemphemmy6103 right!
Changing your accent isn’t changing who you are because accents aren’t an inborn part of us-they’re shaped by the environment we grow up in. They reflect our social surroundings, not our identity. If your accent doesn’t add value or creates barriers in communication, adapting it for clarity and connection isn’t losing yourself-it’s making sure your message is understood. Let’s be real: we all struggle with accents that are hard to follow, and comedians make jokes about it for a reason. It’s human to want clear communication. Like the saying goes, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Being adaptable is about blending in without losing yourself, making your voice resonate in any room.
My friend, Asians and Europeans barely switch and they hold positions of power vs accent folk
Don't doubt yourself. Be confident. Be real. Be authentic. Be yourself.
Calling a spade by it's right name, it is an identity issue. Inferiority complex can manifest in many ways, even among seemingly "successful people". I almost fell into this trap until, (I believe it is God that probably brought it to my attention), I noticed that when Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie were speaking you could tell they are Africans and what region of Nigeria they were from. I realized the former attended Harvard and we know its the brightest of the bright that gets in there, so which means she probably got there in her teens or early twenties and she has worked since then among none Africans. So for at least 5 decades she has probably worked mostly among none Africans but has kept her identity especially her accent. I respect these women greatly for this. I saw Malema of South Africa say he loves Nigerians because they are so bold and do not try to switch up accent, I said I pray o.
But for the most part, I believe we have more people in this generation who are staying true to their African culture now than previous generations of Western Settlers. Like you also rightly mentioned, all humans have accent. As long as we are not from same place we must sound differently from each other. Inside the US, we hear of the Texan accent. In UK they talk of Cockney. Africans must embrace our Africanness, it is what makes us unique. We will keep losing respect when we try to be like others. When I relocated I suddenly started feeling very artificial and second class in wigs. I still wear them today but not depending on it for beauty like in the past. It is me embracing my identity. I cannot stand before God and be defending why I wanted to be like what He definitely did not want me to be. God see oyibo before He create me as African. I trust His judgment.
You can keep your accent and that's respectable. I am one of those that like "try" to speak like natives - i pronounce "automatically" the way a native speaker would. I don't troll someone who prefers speaking in a non-native way. The trouble comes when someone tries to troll me for trying to speak what I consider a native way, as if I don't have anything to troll them about their way of speaking.
I like it when foreigners perfect their pronunciation of words in my own native language (Swahili) and admire them for that effort. And some have a knack of picking up accents easily and it's their talent. They should not be shamed or looked down upon as if those who can't pick up accents or switch them are morally superior.
Absolutely spot on. Communicate clearly, they would hear you over time just as you have gotten to hear them without straining your ears. If you were not born here or immigrated as a child, your accent would stand out no matter how much you try.
100%. Clear communication is the goal
Thanks Marina.I am a Cameroonian and I perfectly agree with you.we must keep our own identity and just learn new ways.
Absolutely!!
Thanks Marina. You are a great communicator. Your choice of words is top notch, plus your content is educative.
Thank you very much for the kind feedback 😊
One thing I admire about you my darling is how you've preserved your authenticity. It shows through in everything you do. It's one of the reasons I value your friendship and hold your words so dear. You are a real one girl!
The Nigerian accent is beautiful to hear. Speak and pronounce your words clearly and correctly, in the right diction. IF you're going for a borrowed accent, do it just as good as them. We all go dey alright. Much love ✨️✨️💖💖😘
Thank you so much!! You are far too kind, Oremi Atata 🥰
Well said Marina, I am a South African and I have learnt to slow down and lower the pitch of my voice and it has worked. Why people change their accents baffles me, I love my accent and I will never change it. Read the room, rephrase certain words but never who you are.
It's just humanely. They do the same if you're observant . E.g, if you're a Nigerian, as a Yoruba check when communicating with an Igbo seller or Hausa and you'd realise you adjusted your accent for better understanding.
Actually, no, I have never observed this anywhere around me. Not even in Nigeria. To the context of the video, the concern is about the how and the why. This accent thing even shows up among fellow Nigerians. You are talking to a nigerian, and you have a conc accent that combines US and UK undertones? This table needed the shaking.
This is me 100%! People close to me have called me out since Nigeria that I switch to sound closer to who I'm speaking to..With my family in home town I'd switch to the upcountry Yoruba, in Lagos I'd use the common eko accent, with artisans or at the market I'd use pidgin or a stronger yoruba depending on how the person sounds, I've had to use bad grammar in instances where the person I'm speaking to finds it hard to understand English, and this is both home and abroad. The truth is even though I may not be a master of any of all these speaking types, I just do it subconsciously without thinking anyone is lesser or better than me. It will take a deliberate and conscious effort to stop myself from switching.
@@lolab.80 you're so right. People need just to realise almost everyone does that unconsciously. You are only communicating effectively.
Hi Marina, very good educative content. You do a very good job. I completely agree with you. I lived in the UK for 4yrs, have lived in Canada for 10yrs. Doing very well for myself while maintaining my strong Igbo Anambra accent lol. Hopefully, I will see you in person, when next we have an event here in Saskatoon.
Thank you Marina for addressing this issue. The matter tire me . When people try to change their accent it always sounds so funny and fake. My opinion is that it comes out of trying to be wannabe 😂😂Just ensure your pronunciations are understandable. I always say it l am proudly Nigerian!!!!!!
To each is own
We cannot rule that out.
I am 1st generation Canadian and I have a work voice. It's not just about accent, its tone and pitch. My work voice is about 2 octaves higher. I smile and sit up when answering the phone to lift my voice and emote a cheerful persona. Just sound bubbling you'll be ok.
Thank you so much for keeping 100, enjoyed hearing your thoughts on this 😊
Thank you Marina for making this video. My former boss is always having problems hearing me when I speak. I asked other of my colleagues if they can hear me and they said yes, that's when I know it's her problem and not mine.
You are so welcome!
That is microagression. It is her, not you.
I love ❤ your sit-down video. 😊 i hardly comment but i have watched you for over 3 yrs now. I love ❤️ your accent 😍 my hubby is Nigerian and one thing he had to learn is to tone down his voice at work, but other than that, people love the way he sounds while talking.
You remind me of Asha Darling.
Thank you for sharing about mental health 🙏🏽 ❤️ that's a topic dear to my heart.
Lots of love from Finland 🇫🇮
Lol. When you work with kids, you'd understand. To each his own. If you like switching, do so. Whatever happens, do you. Switching accent doesn't change who you are. Like we know, switching is the game, when we speak to people who can easily understand us, we switch again! All I am saying, whatever suits an individual. Be happy, no sweat, no worries! Thanks for the video. You are you.
It is more about the why than the how. Comparing dealing with kids and thr situationbi presented isn't comparing apples to apples. I get what you mean, but in all, let's embrace authenticity.
When I came to Canada, I was speaking just my normal English until I noticed the whites don’t seem to understand my English. Just when I switched up that they started understanding. It’s really tough trying to maintain our Nigerian English to be honest.
I disagree, though. Our Asians brothers are doing just fine. This seems more like a microagression problem than an accent one.
I really love and admire you. Thank you for this video!
Thanks for watching!
What a great video , very educative. Thank you so much
Glad it was helpful!
Keep keeping it 100, you are legit. This must have been your easiest content.
Wasn't easy ooooo 🤣🤣
I called SGI last month and heard a Jamaican- of course I asked- are you Jamaican? We greated each other and it felt so good. I also met a Jamaican HR employee on the phone. She recognised me through my accent. We are friends now. I've never thought to even try and adjust my accent- I love it❤.
I will personally arrest you if you attempt to change your accent😂 I love listening to you.
100% Marina! Our people can make you doubt yourself, so real and sad. Genuinely retain your authentic self 🎉, thanks 😊!
Absolutely!
Sist this subject is a big issue oooo. My kids are complaining their mates in class can't understand them. I simply told them to slow down when communicating to none Nigerians in school. I had such challenge when I resumed school as well but right now, am good to go. I had a presentation today and it was awesome. Thanks for this
Awesomeee!!!
Lol; My opinion is that accent thing is identity crisis and low self esteem.
Clarity in communication is the goal.
Be you!
Well done Marina.
Eggzactly!!😂😂😂
Clarity is binded the goal, and I wish we would all take that from this video
I am with you here Marina,I am from delta state and I was raised in Benin and I can say I am a dota of the Edo soil, I don’t switch my accent in anyway I only just slow down. They too have an accent nd I try to understand them so they should try and understand me.
My fellow oniovo and ovbiedo combined👋
The concern in real sis- emotional topic❤
Im able to change my accent at work to sound 80 percent british (i think) it helps me to not have to repeat myself and gives me a sense of belonging. I dont fake it to my fellow Nigerians. Most people who complain about accent changes will do it if they could
You are right Marina!❤
Sis, this is hilarious to me, but I get it.
I honestly don't understand why some Nigerians are stuck on putting pressure on this accent thing, it doesn't make you less or better. As long as you speak clearly and you're being understood, you are good to go.
However, I had to adjust a little bit. I had to slow down when talking especially at work here in America. No one complained but I noticed my colleagues would repeat what I said. They had to do that because I spoke so fast that they had to repeat it back to me to make sure they didn't miss anything. I just always remind myself to slow down especially when I'm excited or passionate about what I'm talking about.
Shout out to my American friends that are used to me talking. They are the real MVPs that catch every word I say because once I start, it's 60 words per millisecond lol.
Hahahahaha, as in! I have to catch myself when I am recording this videos to slow down, too. God bless the people who don't stand in the way of our authentic selfs.
Thank you my Edo sister 😃😃😃 ❤
You are so welcome
Na identity crisis. My kids still talk with CLEAN Nija accents so much so that other kids try to copy them for how unique they sound. Me too. Co-workers are like "how come you sound so clean and not like ...." and I tell them "In Nigeria we speak English, we study English, thus our command of the language is usually at a scholarly level- for a lot of us, that is". Be confident, my people.
Here in the USA people with a stong southern accent are consided a lower uneducated social class. For instance saying ain't instead of is not. Is looked down on and can stop you from getting a job. Especially a high paying job working with well educated co-workers. It with not accent but the words used.
Interesting! Thanks for sharing.
@path1400 I believe what you're referring to is Ebonics, not necessarily the accent. You can have a strong southern accent but still use proper words. Ex. She ain't coming vs. She's not coming.
Nice topic sis … ❤ we all should just be ourselves, be unique, be youuuu. -From Mabel
This is how I see it. In Nigeria, People who could afford the top schools where phonetics is a serious business send their kids there without thinking twice. ..because English is not our language and competence is aiming for near perfection in speaking it. However, where I go get problem is where a parent doesn’t give thesame energy to their kids being good at their native language. That said, it is competence on different levels, if you could make native Canadians feel the most convenient conversing with you, and switch back so Nigerians can enjoy having conversation with you in English, even more, being dope when you go all in if you have to speak local dialect.. I vote for competence on all level. Good topic
Also know this and know peace😅, that if you grow up to 15yrs in casual Nigerian, there’s no way you can eradicate your accent no matter how proficient you become in speaking English.. it’s even sickening to know that Canadian English is not the best form of English. English Variations up and down 😂 their use of words are often different.. so that’s what you want to learn when in Canada
I agree with you on the competence piece.
This table!! The Asians will always be a point of reference. How do they do it? Inside this same Canada.
Hallelujah you’re not alone in this part of the world, about the accent people who said to others about accent they are just being stupid especially African who ask such questions.
Even in Nigeria I’ve tend to switch my Yoruba accent my first time in Ilorin, I felt some type of way speaking my Lagos Yoruba. Sometimes it’s necessary so they hear you. There’s one interview of Davido he was talking to a black American and the guy was like huh? Then he switched then he got him, it’s a skill we may have to learn. How ever you have a point. I don’t think Chimamnada switches but pronounce well. That in it self can be stressful
You are on point
Makes sense.
However, the realities of individuals could be very different. People who work in customer facing roles daily and whose communication with locals may affect their performance and job will need to do what is necessary in changing their accent which is one part learning to pronounce clearly and another part having the canadian accent.
Do you ever wonder how our asian colleagues do it? They dominate the customer service space now in Canada, and we understand them, don't we? I hear you though.
Thank you oo
Any time
Accent switch is not needed at alllll. What we need is proper diction. I remember pronouncing bottle as "botul" and i had to write before my colleague got what I was saying😂. Now, i am sooo 'ba.dl'
Meanwhile if i was in Britain, "botul" is the right pronunciation
All in all, diction is the most important thing. I cannot let my tongue come and twist
Marina, I'm at work...but let me put in my earphone 😊
I was confused at first. It felt like I was not following the trend. Infact when I first landed in Canada this conversation came up and I said “no be for old age I wan come learn left hand”. Already, I speak really clear and some people say it’s an accent. It’s sha not Canadian accent. Nobody really knows the accent I have. Only God knows the accent sha because even me I don’t know it. I sha know I cannot have a Canadian accent. I work in a client service role and I have had clients say things like “you have a hard accent”. I had to learn how to speak slowly and a lot more clearly. I admire people from other nationals whose accent is stronger than mine. They do not budge. They speak it as it is and just ensure they are audible. I learnt from them and firmed up my resolve to not fall for the pressure of having a “Canadian” accent.
Those our brothers and sisters from asia are the real deal here. If they can still do customer service roles, we will be fine. Some of us have fallen off the race towards accent. And we are fine.
I am very used to Benin - I was born & bred in Benin...
My fellow ovbiedo🤗
"Man know thyself"
Until, we individually realise how powerful we are...we will continue to be lost in every wave that blows.
Meself....no understand how person way don old before them japa go begin dey speak from their noses within small time way dem enter obodo Oyinbo....make nay take am easy before nay go bite nay tongues o...😅
Its the Immigrant or visitor who always has the accent Not the native u found there, unless u predominantly work with or around people from back home immigrants will need to adapt to their new home in terms of accents if one wants to fit in, as time goes on u will figure out what works and what does Not, every immigrant comes to that realization at their on pace with time, the most frustrating thing is when u go back home to visit and those around u hear u speak your adapted accent and they start to make fun of u thinking that you're showing off which is not the case.
I honestly don't understand what it means to change accent especially amongst adults, with kids it's understand they pick it up easily but for a fully formed adult I just term it low self esteem.
Just speak clearly and pronounce your words well.
This is where my headache is. Kids switch effortlessly, and they don't go back and forth. It switches and stays the same, consistent.
Aced my English proficiency tests with my Nigerian accent and always excelled at interviews! Please be proud of who you are!
For me I tend to sound like the people around me if I stay around them long enough. These days I sound like I am fluent in Shona because I work with people from Zimbabwe a lot.
If you meet me you’d think I’m faking an accent, it’s just how language is for me. I pray say I nor speak accent oh🙄🙄🙄 e nor consain me😂😂😂 British oh American oh Canadian oh I go mix all.
Hello marina,please excuse me for my poor english...please i need the number of the woman Who do the personalize gift for birthday please please
Please I think this conversation comes from a place of low self esteem. The only issue with Nigerian accent is the speed of pronunciation and conversations but apart from that, we have a beautiful accent as a people. Please, let’s speak in our accent with pride
There are diverse accents all over the world. There's no need changing your accent. If you do, you'll sound ridiculous.
Even Canadians(British, Americans etc) have their own accents.
I know of some one who came into Edmonton less than two years and she has changed her phonetics.
She talks now like she is going to bite her tongue.
Yorubas call them awon omo oju ori ola ri.
Tueh to all of them.
If you’re going to switch your accent, please do it right cuz some of them sound very unauthentic. The one that annoys me is when Nigerians ‘westernize’ Nigeria names thereby making it meaningless. I mean, what’s that about? I see my white colleagues making an effort to pronounce our names correctly but my people feel a need to turn it into something else.
The table I was shaking small small, you brought fire😂
Hi Marina, Your perspective is really subjective and I don’t think you should speak generally. I have been told that I should ‘try to sound more like the locals’, oh ‘it is hard to hear you because of your accent’ Bla bla. They even offered to enroll me in a class to learn their accent! It just felt too bad and unaccepting for me and so I left for another place. Anyone that receives and internalize these kind of comments, could give in to it because they feel they have limited options.
I am not in a race to lose my accent but I will also not put myself under any pressure to switch it.
The typical nigerian accent doesnt need that much. What you dealt with is micro aggression and a form of bullying which should not be normalized. Do you have Asians colleagues? Do they ever attempt to sound like locals? We work with them just fine, don't we? I am glad you left that place. Are you facing the same issue with your new employer?
@@MARINAESIRIby Asian are you referring to Indians? They also speak fast and are hard to comprehend sometimes. The other asians speak slower and lower tones but are also the group that conforms the most to “western”
When you speak, you have to be understood
Where you buy am 😅😅😅😅😅😅😅
Your communication skill is excellent. Don't do anything with your accent. Otherwise, you'd come out horrible.