CEO of Big Afro Shop in Canada, Nana Dadson—recently made a return appearance on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide with DJ Nyaami. During the interview, she opened up about the realities of raising triplets abroad and the importance of planning for retirement to avoid becoming a financial burden on her children.
“Everything is expensive here, especially with triplets. I have to work hard and plan for my future now, so I don’t become dependent on my kids later,” Nana said. “Unlike Ghana, where children are expected to take care of their parents—sometimes even borrowing money for funerals—here, we prioritize personal responsibility.”
She pointed out that in Ghana, even wealthy people reach out to relatives abroad for support, assuming they have endless resources.
Nana also highlighted the cultural differences between African and Western families:
“In Canada, siblings work together, but they don’t rely on one another financially. Back home, if you don’t support your siblings, they can stop speaking to you. It’s a lot of pressure.”
She explained that buying a house in Canada requires substantial income:
“You need to make between $90,000 and $100,000 to afford a home. It’s not easy, especially when only high-paying jobs go to those already established here. Most jobs now are through recommendations, and it’s hard for companies to hire people on a work permit. That needs to change so citizens and residents can access better opportunities.”
Nana also shared insight into legal residence (referred to as “nkraataa”) in Canada:
“If you don’t have your papers, Toronto is the best place to live, but getting legal status here depends on the skill you bring. Trades like mechanics and carpentry pay very well. You must choose the right path to increase your chances of staying legally.”
Aside from her main job, Nana runs a grocery store that sells African foods and meat to cater to the Ghanaian and African community in Canada.
“We sell everything from basic groceries to African products. Some of the momoni (fermented fish) even smells so bad—but people love it.”
Her final message was a mix of practicality and reflection:
“Life abroad is about structure, discipline, and planning. You can’t depend on others. You work hard not just for now, but so your children don’t carry your burdens tomorrow.”
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