Jende is a thirty-four-year-old Cameroonian immigrant living in a Harlem sublet. He holds a temporary work permit and awaits the result of his asylum application. He desires a comfortable American life for his family and believes hard work will secure his place in society. His job driving for a wealthy executive exposes him to the hidden problems of the elite.

Neni is a community-college student and home health aide from Cameroon. She studies relentlessly to achieve her goal of becoming a pharmacist. She shoulders the burden of domestic duties while managing her academic schedule. Her exposure to affluent white society challenges her expectations of American wealth.

Clark is a senior executive at Lehman Brothers who handles high-stakes financial products. He relies heavily on his driver to manage his tightly scheduled days. He provides a lavish lifestyle for his family but avoids spending time at home. He harbors severe anxiety over the questionable accounting practices at his firm.

Cindy is a nutritionist married to a high-powered Wall Street banker. She grew up poor and relies heavily on her current wealth for validation. She covers her imposter syndrome by obsessing over social events and maintaining a pristine image. She spends her private hours self-medicating to cope with her husband's absence.

Vince is a Columbia law student who actively rejects his family's wealth. He views American capitalism as morally bankrupt and frequently criticizes his parents. He contemplates leaving the country to find spiritual authenticity abroad.

Mighty is a nine-year-old boy living an affluent but lonely life. He is primarily raised by domestic staff due to his parents' demanding schedules. He enjoys spending time with the Jonga family and desires a simpler domestic environment.

Fatou is a West African immigrant who provides a realistic perspective on American life. She understands the cultural nuances that Neni misses. She challenges Neni's assumptions and offers practical advice regarding relationships and work.

Winston is a successful lawyer and Jende's cousin. He moves through white, affluent circles with ease and frequently hosts integrated parties. He provides Jende with vital connections and strategic advice for surviving in New York.

Bubakar is a Nigerian-born American citizen practicing immigration law. He charges high fees and pushes Jende to submit fabricated persecution stories to the government. He frequently assures Jende that the slow-moving court system works in their favor.

Liomi is an elementary school student adapting to his new life in America. He occasionally struggles to focus in class, prompting strict lectures from his mother. He admires his father and enjoys their rare outings together.

An academic administrator at Borough of Manhattan Community College. He evaluates Neni's eligibility for scholarships and questions her ability to achieve her career goals.

Leah is an administrative assistant working for Clark Edwards. She speaks enthusiastically but awkwardly about African culture. She acts as a crucial source of inside information regarding the impending financial trouble at Lehman Brothers.

Amatimba is the second child of Jende and Neni. Her expected arrival forces the family to drastically alter their financial and educational plans.

Anna is the regular housekeeper for the Edwards family. She manages the primary residence and coordinates temporary help during the summer.

Betty is a friend who helps Neni handle unfamiliar situations. She possesses knowledge about prescription medications and advises Neni on how to manage employer emergencies discreetly.

Natasha is the older, white pastor of a church in Washington Square. She welcomes the Jonga family into her parish and offers institutional support for their legal battles.

An associate of Clark's at Lehman Brothers. He listens to Clark's anxieties regarding the firm's financial investments and impending federal oversight.

A wealthy friend of Cindy Edwards. She trades gossip and discusses the minor inconveniences of the economic downturn from a position of extreme privilege.