Dr. Patrick Iroegbu

I’m very pleased to introduce our newest contributor Dr. Patrick Iroegbu. He is a Social and Cultural Medical Anthropologist. He lectures anthropology in Canada. Dr. Patrick Iroegbu is a critical anthropological thinker, columnist, and published author. His most recent book is "Healing Insanity: A Study of Igbo Medicine in Contemporary Nigeria (2010)". This book and others are available online - www.amazon.com.
I know you will be blessed by the things he will be sharing, by God’s grace, over the next weeks and months.

Location:
Alberta, Canada

Where were you born and where do you live now?
Born in Imo State of Nigeria, and currently lives in Canada

How would you best describe yourself?
A community person, leader, writer, a published author and very passionate about African cultures and development.

Can you tell us more about your job?
Educationist, lecture social and cultural anthropology in a university environment, animate community events, engage in public speaking, contribute articles and commentaries to websites on African and Nigerian issues. I also discuss Diaspora and inter-ethnic relationship matters, including indigenous and city marital relationships in the modern world.

What is the biggest misconception the media gives Africa?
Stereotyping Africa as if there is nothing good to come out of it. Africa is sometimes thought of as a country by many North Americans, which is not true. Africa is a complex huge continent having over 56 sovereign countries. Poverty and disease are the systemic face of Africa the media accords it and it appears Africa cannot be discussed without poverty of life, poverty of culture and poverty of development. That is to say, it is eternally assumed that Africa is cursed and therefore mired in dangerous and satanic health problems, leadership woes and corruption. But Africa is coming up with the social media working; things are changing, and hopefully for the better! The media should accord Africa a better reporting for its cultural renaissance and greater globalization.

What made you decide to contribute to Amoize Magazine?
Given the passion to use my internet surfing skills and the ability to write and educate cultural issues, Amoize Magazine will provide me with a huge opportunity and network to share informed knowledge and cultural ideas and ways. I have read several articles and blog issues in Amoize Magazine and I find them fascinating that I hope to contribute to enrich it. Ezioma is also instrumental by introducing me to Amoize Magazine of which I am thankful.
 
What inspires you the most?
The critical need to refocus African cultures in a changing world. Listening to debates by experts on African issues. Watching CNN annual Heroes Award. Reflecting about the life and times of Fr. Prof. Pantaleon and his poverty alleviation efforts. His daily motto is “help, not hinder”! A good kingly shower, meal and sleep! How is that?

Let's talk more about you and your tastes. Any hobbies? What do you like to do in your free time? Anything you like and recommend?
Reading, writing, surfing the internet, chatting, blogging, community events, and volunteering. I recommend everyone to engage with his or her community. Do not stay away and think things will be done by others. Who are the “others” without you? It begins with your three fields: mental contribution, physical presence and material offering and connection. A community without its members involved will not do better.
 
What makes you proud to be African?
As an African, I see myself as a source of knowledge, resource and hope for the larger world. We are the world that others study and adjust to be better humans.

Best piece of advice you ever received was?
Be focused, pursue your dreams, reach out and make life and society better than you primarily met it. Write and share!