Patricia is a Ghanaian currently living in Nord Berla, near Torino, close to the Swiss border in Italy. She arrived in Italy in 2019 after a difficult journey. Originally from Berekum, Ghana, Patricia grew up as an orphan. Her grandmother, who raised her after she lost her parents at nine years old, also passed away, leaving Patricia to fend for herself.
After completing Senior High School (SHS), Patricia engaged in small trading, selling products like banku, Tom Brown, and other goods. Through a mutual friend, she met her husband, who was then living in Libya. They agreed to marry even though they had not yet met in person. His family formally came to Ghana to marry Patricia, and she later traveled to join him in Libya, using connections that helped her migrate through Algeria.
Patricia’s migration journey was dangerous. She spent two years in Libya, enduring harsh conditions. During that time, she worked at an Arabian household, living there while working both day and night shifts. She attempted to cross the Mediterranean Sea six times and was arrested five times before finally succeeding on the sixth attempt.
Patricia described her experience on the sea, saying it felt like being in an airplane inside the crowded, unstable boat. She didn’t know how to swim, but she trusted in God and remained confident. After being rescued at sea, where they spent two weeks adrift, Patricia and others were taken to Italy. There were 68 people on their boat, including many women and four children.
Once in Italy, Patricia and her husband reunited. Although he initially found work, he is currently unemployed but hopeful to find another job soon. Patricia continued her education in Italy, now attending high school, with hopes of working and building a better future. She recently gave birth to a new baby and remains determined to succeed.
Patricia reflected that life in Europe is a cycle of work and responsibilities, even during festive seasons like Christmas. She noted that while foreigners receive some support in Italy, it is still very challenging, and even locals struggle. One of her mentors, a godmother figure, told her that living in Italy often means working until old age because pensions alone are not enough to live on.
Despite the hardships, Patricia has ambitions. She dreams of working hard over the next five years to save enough money to open a restaurant back in Ghana. She also warned friends who planned to migrate not to underestimate the difficulties. While life in Europe may seem attractive from Ghana, the reality is far from easy, and many who attempt the journey face hardship or even return home empty-handed.
Patricia emphasized that while she admires young girls in Ghana who appear independent and fashionable, the struggles abroad are often hidden from view. Many migrants sacrifice a lot just to survive and support families back home.
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