How Food Connects Teens Around the World: A West African Perspective

Written by Awwal Ibrahim

Ever felt what it's like to form new connections over a lunch break? Grabbing something warm before morning classes, sharing snacks during a break, or trying new ice-cream flavors with friends. Whichever it is, food has a way of turning these small, ordinary moments into unforgettable memories. Regardless of your location, the act of eating together is like a language understood by everyone — one that needs no translation.

Growing up as a teen in West Africa, I have always been amazed by how these same moments happen in other countries, too, and the sense of familiarity they bring. A Korean student slurping spicy ramyeon after cram school, an American teenager bonding over ice cream on a hot summer day, a mate in Lagos enjoying some bean cakes after long classes. It’s quite evident that we all experience the same thing, just in different flavors, and it’s moments like these that connect all teens around the world.

Food also does more than just serve as a global connector for teens; it sort of shapes our personal identity—reminding us about culture, family traditions, and the like. This is how it works: Imagine a teen who now lives in Atlanta but grew up in Nigeria, a place where Akara (bean cakes) and “puff-puff” are very special. The moment he sees these foods on-screen or tastes them again, he is immediately hit with childhood nostalgia. He’s reminded of home, his roots, and his identity. The sound of Akara sizzling in hot oil on a Saturday morning, the “breakfast is ready” call, and the playful scramble among siblings for the largest piece. It paints a vivid picture, right?

And then, there’s Christmas. The smell of freshly baked sugar cookies, the gingerbread house, and the sweet candy canes all come with a familiar warmth. These festive treats will always pull you back to your childhood memories and the comfort of the season, no matter where you are. The season is around the corner, too!

Beyond shaping our identity, food plays a key role in teen social dynamics, helping teens express themselves and interact within peer groups. As an African from a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural country, I’ve seen this firsthand. There is an event celebrated in many schools called Cultural Day. It is a day dedicated to showcasing cultural beauty and heritage. Students are expected to bring their popular cultural dish for their friends and teachers, and dress in their traditional attire. The meals, coupled with their vibrant outfits, become something more than just food; they become conversation starters, friendship beginnings, and storytelling sessions. On Cultural Day, a student might present Pounded Yam and Egusi Soup, while another brings Abacha, each offering a taste of their traditional meals. In similar events in the U.S, students may bring apple pie, macaroni and cheese, or traditional family recipes to a school potluck or multicultural festival.

Events like these occur in several other countries too, such as Multicultural Day in Canada, Bunka Sai festival in Japan, and cultural fairs in Brazil, where students share food and showcase art, creating opportunities for teens to learn, taste, and connect. It’s truly an amazing celebration!

Is there a better “teen-way” to de-stress? After long days and classes, food just seems to be the perfect option for teens to recharge and relax. Even cooking a simple meal like scrambled eggs or making a nice sandwich can be surprisingly comforting. Many teens also love to use their food time creatively, like trying out new flavors or experimenting with recipes, and oh! There's great excitement when it actually turns out just right. Sharing these creations with friends and family extends the joy and brings a sense of accomplishment and pride to the teen cook. Food also carries a significant emotional value. Having a bowl of warm soup, snacking, or baking some cookies can instantly lift moods and bring that smile. It also gives one a sense of control, especially on a hectic and chaotic day. Turning to food as a source of relaxation and comfort is healthy, and trust me, it can really brighten your day.

Food is more than recipes and fancy dinners. Food builds real connections, strengthens bonds, and makes us look beyond ourselves. Across continents, teens share similar experiences with food. The excitement of eating with friends, the pride in running the kitchen, the comfort of a familiar flavor, the joyful laughter during lunch, the snacks, and sleepovers. It doesn’t matter if it’s jollof rice, a slice of apple pie, empanadas, or even a bento box. The joy and connection that food brings, and the feeling it inspires, are universal.

These moments with food remind us that despite the geographical, cultural, and social differences, humans face similar joys and struggles. Every bite, every flavor becomes a bridge, connecting teens across continents, embracing diversity, and inspiring young teens with the curiosity to look out into the world, to reach for new experiences and stories beyond their own.

Thumbnail Credit:

https://unsplash.com/photos/a-group-of-people-sitting-around-a-table-with-food-vJsj-hgOEG0