After his father’s untimely death, Afam’s family emigrated from Nigeria to the US in 1996. His father was an officer in the army, while his mother taught English at the local high school. Making the transition from Lagos, Nigeria where he was raised in the army barracks to life in Phoenix, Arizona provided many opportunities to adapt such as adjusting to the American accent and the absence of school uniforms. Afam attended North Canyon High School. He continued to hone his soccer skills in Tucson as a starting mid-fielder on the University of Arizona’s club soccer team.
Nearing the completion of his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Arizona in Physiology, Afam got “a bit burned out” and took a position as a Data Analyst at CVS Caremark in Phoenix. “One of my co-workers had a stroke and, in observing this colleague undergo physical therapy, I was inspired to pursue a doctorate in Physical Therapy.” Afam took a couple classes at PVCC to finish his undergraduate degree. So, when the time came to complete prerequisites prior to entering PT school he returned to PVCC to enroll in Casey Durandet’s Physics class and there “met a professor who really stood out to me. Casey Durandet is completely different. Despite having many courses and instructors, I found her enthusiasm for life and teaching unmatched and so very inspiring.” Due to the relationship Dr. Durandet establishes with her students, Afam reached out to her for a letter of recommendation as part of his admission application to PT School. Afam attributes this letter to playing a significant role in his admission and the opportunity to pursue his dream.
Afam completed his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from AT Still University of Health Science in 2017. He has over 10 years of experience in the healthcare field as a Certified Nursing Assistant, Pharmacy Tech, Physical Therapy Tech, and is now a Doctor of Physical Therapy. He has been trained in both outpatient and home health physical therapy. Afam loves working with all age groups.
Afam continues to support PVCC by sharing his time and talent. He is quick to take advantage of opportunities to give back to PVCC and support those who follow in his footsteps. In February 2020, Afam participated in the STEM Alumni Panel. He shared his life’s journey with the students and the audience was inspired by his story.
Afam is committed to giving back to the community, including involvement in non-profit organizations such as the Refuge Foundation. Additionally, he and his brother have started their Physical Therapy practice. “At the end of the day, I want to go back to Nigeria and offer my services and inspiration to others.” Presently, Afam continues to work as a Physical Therapist in the Valley, primarily contracted with Home Health companies and a mobile outpatient team.