Daniel Yeboah: From Galamsey in Ghana to Building a New Life in California
Daniel Yeboah, a Ghanaian currently based in California, USA, shared his story on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwidewith DJ Nyaami. He has been living in the United States for the past two years, but his journey to get there was full of twists and turns.
Back in Ghana, Daniel dreamed of becoming a professional goalkeeper. His passion for football even took him to India, but when things didn’t work out, he returned home and ventured into the gold business (galamsey). Alongside galamsey, he also worked as a barber for 10 years. “After one year in galamsey, the money started coming and I had a vision to use it to achieve my dream of traveling to the US,” he said.
Daniel’s breakthrough came when his godfather introduced him to someone who eventually helped him move to America through marriage. Once in California, he quickly realized that life abroad was not as easy as many imagine. Jobs were difficult to come by, but through connections, he managed to secure a job in his own name while also enrolling in a school.
Reflecting on galamsey, Daniel admitted that while it gave him quick money, it was not sustainable. “Galamsey can give you money, but it doesn’t last. I traveled because of my kids’ future. Those still in galamsey should at least cover the pits they dig and respect the law,” he advised.
Now 30 years old, Daniel has shifted his focus. He no longer pursues football but is preparing to study IT in the US. He has worked different jobs, including caregiving, and acknowledges that life abroad is full of challenges, especially loneliness. “Loneliness is too much. Long-distance relationships are also not easy. If you constantly think about your wife back in Ghana, you’ll only hurt yourself. I came here alone, and I’ve psyched myself to stay focused on my purpose,” he explained.
Daniel also cautioned Ghanaians who believe America is “heaven.” According to him, many immigrants live quietly, battling hardships that are not always visible. “Some people look flashy but deep down, age has caught up with them and they are broke. In America, you need years to survive. You can find women here, but getting a good one is hard. I believe I made the right decision, and I don’t like to talk too much—I just focus on my goals,” he concluded.
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