Silas Mantey Shares His Journey from Ghana to Teaching in Canada
Silas Mantey, a Ghanaian teacher based in Northern Ontario, Canada (Dear Lake), recently spoke with DJ Nyaami about his journey abroad.
Silas arrived in Canada as a student at Lakehead University, where he pursued a Master’s in Education. He originally taught in Ghana for six years, after which he moved to Accra to prepare for his journey abroad.
In an interview with DJ Nyaami on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide show, he shared that his initial visa application was denied. However, a man he met in Adabraka assisted him in gaining admission and reapplying. He submitted additional supporting documents, such as proof of ownership of his cocoa farm and information about his children, which significantly strengthened his case. Within a week, he was granted a two-year visa and secured funding for his $48,000 tuition through an MPower Loan.
Silas had always aspired to be a teacher, inspired by a mentor called Teacher Mantey. However, during his training at Abetifi Training College, he engaged in smoking, drinking, and womanizing, which nearly got him expelled from the mission school. Fortunately, an intervention from the dean saved him.
After graduation, Silas developed a cardiac condition and was warned by doctors that his lifestyle was leading him to an early grave. He eventually quit smoking weed (10-11 years ago) and stopped drinking alcohol (5 years ago) after a near-death experience at Komfo Anokye Hospital. Witnessing several people die around him, he prayed for a miracleand vowed never to drink alcohol again.
Silas recalls that his transition to Canada wasn’t smooth. He faced challenges upon arrival, including financial struggles and securing accommodation. Initially, he had only $1,000, which was quickly depleted by hotel costs ($120 per night).
He later discovered the Salvation Army, which provided him with temporary shelter, food, and support until school reopened. However, when he tried to access his MPower loan funds, he was informed that the money would be sent back to its source, leaving him in financial distress.
Despite these setbacks, Silas persevered. He focused on his studies, improving his performance in the second semester, and eventually graduated. During this period, he also worked as a cleaner before securing a teaching position.
Silas now teaches in Northern Ontario, where he lives in a small town with a population of 700 people. The government provides financial incentives for teachers in remote areas, including:
- Housing support: He pays less than $250 per month for a fully furnished two-bedroom apartment.
- Allowances: Teachers receive northern living allowances and vacation pay.
- Gift benefits: The government provides travel allowances to visit cities to relieve boredom.
Silas, now a single father, brought his two children (ages 5 and 13) to Canada but did not include his ex-wife in the application. His eldest child helps with household duties, making life easier for him as he balances work and parenting.
Silas encourages Ghanaians seeking teaching opportunities in Canada to plan carefully. He emphasizes the importance of getting certified, as salaries are based on years of experience and qualifications.
- Teachers without certification may start with lower salaries (~$10,000) but receive back pay upon completing their requirements.
- He advises newcomers to take advantage of financial aid and government benefits.
Silas remains single but is focused on his career and children. His final message to Ghanaians is:
“If you get the opportunity to travel, take it. Start small and build gradually. If you’re a teacher, plan your journey well, and success will follow.”
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