My Heart Is in Ghana, but I’m Building a Life in Italy” – Charles Shares His Journey on SVTV Africa
Charles, a Ghanaian based in Italy, recently appeared on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide with DJ Nyaami to share his inspiring story of perseverance and purpose.
Currently living in Bergamo, a city just a few minutes from Milan, Charles has been in Italy for the past Decades. “My body is in Italy, but my heart is in Ghana,” he expressed, emphasizing how connected he still feels to his home country.
Charles came to Italy through the help of his father, and at the time, the idea of traveling abroad felt like going to heaven. “I used to think abroad was a different planet,” he said with a smile. He arrived in August, just as the weather was mild, and initially enrolled in school while working to support his family back home.
As the first among his siblings to travel, Charles made sacrifices, including dropping out of college in Ghana. In Italy, he realized he needed official certification to open a business, so he pursued studies in tourism and business. During a visit to Ghana, he came across a house listed at $350,000, which sparked his interest in property. Around that time, he met his wife, who educated him further about investment opportunities. Today, Charles has a family and children in Italy.
Although many Ghanaians have left Italy for other European countries, Charles believes Italy holds great potential—if you stay focused and avoid distractions. “Italy is a good place if you don’t listen to the wrong people,” he advised. He emphasized the importance of having a purpose, stating, “If you come to Italy with a goal, you can make it.”
Charles began his working life as a student and later took up a job at the airport, where he worked for four years. With growing confidence and stability, he applied to join Italy’s public transport system. His first application was denied, but he persisted and succeeded on his second try after passing five rigorous exams. Today, he proudly works as a public bus driver—the only Black man driving public buses in his area.
“People used to say I would end up as a warehouse worker,” he shared, “but now those same people are proud of what I’ve achieved.” While many Ghanaians drive private trucks or vehicles, Charles stands out for working in the public sector. He previously operated a forklift and held various jobs before landing his current position.
Charles encourages fellow Ghanaians to chase their dreams and not be discouraged by stereotypes or negativity. “It’s not true that you can’t do anything here. With the right mindset, anything is possible.
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