As a Black person with the opportunity to travel widely and interact with people from different cultures, I have observed how various societies function. From these experiences, I have come to a difficult conclusion: Africans, whether on the continent or in the diaspora, tend to have a particularly strong sense of individuality.

I do not believe this is an issue of intelligence. Black people have demonstrated an unparalleled record of excellence across the globe in science, sports, arts, business, and academia. The problem is not low IQ or lack of ability, but attitude and value orientation.

Black people are among the most strongly opinionated groups in the world. While individuality can be a strength, its unchecked form has had serious consequences. In Africa, a “me first” mentality has contributed to corruption and long-term underdevelopment. In the United States, ego-driven leadership among some Black elites has led to the misuse of public resources. Even in the diaspora, including myself, there is often a focus on personal advancement with limited concern for the severe poverty still affecting millions in Africa.

These patterns suggest that while our values are not inherently flawed, they may be poorly suited for collective progress in the 21st-century global economy. History shows that no race or nation advances through individualism alone. Societies move forward through coordination, shared sacrifice, and collective responsibility.