Benjamin: From Struggles in the UK to Advocating for Skilled Jobs
Benjamin, a guest on Daily Hustle Worldwide with DJ Nyaami, shared his 21-year journey of living in the UK and the challenges he faced while trying to build a life abroad.
Originally from Kumasi, Ghana, Benjamin dreamed of traveling overseas.
In 2004, his brother-in-law brought him to Accra, where he connected with agents to facilitate his journey abroad.
At the time, biometric passports were not in use, so he traveled using someone else’s documents.
He resembled the passport owner, which allowed him to board an Egypt Air flight to the UK via Cairo.
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However, upon arrival at Heathrow airport Uk, he almost faced deportation
While being held for deportation, Benjamin decided to make a bold move—he escaped on the way to Terminal 3, boarded an unknown bus to an unfamiliar destination, and eventually found help from fellow Ghanaians.
They offered him shelter and helped him secure a driving job. Unfortunately, the car company that employed him used him for six months without pay.
Grateful for the chance to be in London, Benjamin gave a £200 offering to God as a gesture of thanks.
He admitted to struggling to obtain his residency documents, which he calls nkrataa.
The process was long and expensive, but he eventually succeeded.
Reflecting on his journey, Benjamin emphasized the importance of having a skilled trade.
“If I had a skilled job, I would have been better off,” he said, recalling how he was almost recruited into the military but couldn’t join due to a lack of documentation.
He noted that Ghanaians who claim there are no jobs in the UK are usually referring to cleaning jobs.
However, skilled trades like nursing, plumbing, carpentry, hairdressing, and electrical work offer numerous opportunities.
Benjamin encouraged the youth in Ghana to prioritize vocational training.
He pointed out that skilled workers make good money abroad, unlike those in unskilled roles. He also advised against relying on “work-and-pay” schemes, which he described as scams.
Speaking about visa options, Benjamin advised people to avoid spending £20,000 on visit visas.
Instead, he recommended investing in a marriage visa for £25,000, as it provides better opportunities and a pathway to stable jobs.
Despite his success, Benjamin has faced personal losses, including the recent passing of his mother. Though he planned to visit Ghana last Christmas, her sudden death delayed his return.
Now, he intends to travel home to bury her.
Benjamin concluded by saying he would only assist family members who have vocational skills in moving to the UK.
“If you’re a plumber, electrician, carpenter, seamstress, or hairdresser, you can make good money here,” he emphasized.
His story is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the importance of acquiring skills that provide long-term stability and financial growth.
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