As an African, there are certain professions your family want you to do or are willing to sign off. Being in the medical professional, as a doctor, pharmacist, a nurse, or being an engineer - those are the only professions allowed!

In this quote, Kamaru Usman is reflecting on the cultural expectations placed on individuals in African families regarding career choices. He points out that in many African cultures, there is a narrow range of professions that are seen as acceptable or prestigious, and these often include medical fields like becoming a doctor, pharmacist, or nurse, or careers in engineering. Usman highlights the traditional belief that these professions are the only ones considered worthwhile or respectable, with little room for deviation from this path.

Usman’s statement speaks to the strong sense of family expectations and the pressure that many African individuals face to pursue certain professions that are seen as both stable and prestigious. In many African cultures, success is often measured by achieving a high level of education in these recognized fields, which are associated with financial security and social status. These career choices are viewed as a way to ensure a stable and respected future, often with the approval of the family.

By saying, “those are the only professions allowed,” Usman is emphasizing the restrictiveness of these cultural norms. The pressure to conform to these traditional expectations can limit a person’s ability to explore other career options, particularly in areas that might not be seen as financially lucrative or socially prestigious, such as the arts, sports, or other non-traditional fields. Usman’s own journey to becoming a professional athlete—something outside the prescribed expectations—highlights the challenge of breaking free from these cultural limitations.

Ultimately, Usman’s quote sheds light on the cultural and family pressures that influence career choices in many African communities. It underscores the tension between following one’s passion and meeting familial and societal expectations, especially in cultures where certain professions are seen as the only paths to success.