Pastor Iren Emmanuel has emphasised the need for bravery and assertiveness, particularly among individuals raised in traditional African homes where “home training” can sometimes foster timidity and fear of confrontation.
In a recent video message, Emmanuel highlighted the importance of unlearning habits such as suppressing curiosity and avoiding difficult conversations, noting that these patterns can hinder personal growth and success.
He encouraged people to speak up for themselves, embrace assertiveness, and engage in open dialogue—even when it involves uncomfortable or confrontational situations.
Emmanuel also urged parents to raise children who are confident in expressing their opinions and standing up for themselves, rather than blindly following societal expectations.
He said: “One thing you must master is bravery especially if you come from an African home. There is a type of training called home training. It is a school in intimidation and timidity. They have beaten away your curiosity. When you ask honest questions and you were flogged for it. When they gave you instructions and you asked why, and you were shunned. Those are the things you need to unlearn to be a success in life.
“You cannot be a success if you are not curious. Learn to speak up for yourselves. Some people are in relationships that should have broken, but it is still lingering because they don’t know how to talk. You must learn to speak up for yourself, practice it, learn it. If you don’t learn it, you will be a bad spouse. Sit and have difficult conversations and negotiate your way out. Don’t avoid confrontations. Teach your children to sit down and discuss things they don’t agree with you on. To raise anybody who’ll be a valuable contributor in the society, they must learn to stand out and not play to the bandwagon”.
