Yen Alhassan, a Ghanaian living in Waterford, Ireland, is an avid fan of the SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide Show with DJ Nyaami.
Having lived outside Ghana for 15 years, Yen was born in Bolgatanga and raised in Takoradi. After leaving Ghana at 15, he traveled across several countries, including Brazil, South Africa, and Nigeria, stowing away on ships to reach these destinations. His journey began in Tema Harbour, where he would work in ports and look for opportunities to board ships. Over time, he made numerous trips, including one to Brussels, where he was arrested but later managed to get back on a ship to England and eventually settled in Ireland.
Throughout his travels, Yen learned hard lessons about survival, the harsh realities of immigration, and the struggles of stowing away. He shared that deportation became a business for many, as they would intentionally get caught to gain asylum benefits. Yen himself was involved in helping over a thousand people make their way to Europe as stowaways, particularly in Italy and Spain.
Despite the challenges, Yen found hope in the possibilities that Europe seemed to offer. However, as time passed, he realized that the allure of Europe was not what he initially thought it would be. He had overlooked opportunities in Ghana, where he now believes there is untapped potential, especially in farming. He urges the youth to consider agriculture as a viable future.
Yen also reflected on the difficulties of life in Europe, where he witnessed the struggles of Ghanaians, including their lies and deceit for survival. He shared how the wealth of Africa is often overlooked or taken by foreign powers who profit from the continent’s resources, including gold, diamonds, and crops.
Through it all, Yen found peace in his religion and new opportunities, having studied engineering and started a family in Ireland. He hopes to return to Ghana one day and no longer be tied to the pressures of Europe. He encourages others to find their own paths and avoid chasing dreams that may not bring true fulfillment.
His message to the youth: farming and honest work will lead to long-term success and self-sufficiency.
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