Yaw Appiah Warns Against the Mexico Route After His Friend’s Arrest in the U.S.
Yaw Appiah, a Ghanaian based in the United States, shared his migration story on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide with DJ Nyaami. He revealed that he traveled through Tapachula, Mexico, before eventually entering the U.S. He, however, strongly advised others not to take that risky route.
According to Yaw, one of his friends in Ghana, who was financially stable and doing well, ignored his advice and attempted the Mexico border route. Unfortunately, he was arrested soon after crossing during the Trump administration and has since remained in prison. “He calls me all the time crying from prison. He didn’t listen, and now he’s stuck, not knowing whether he’ll be deported or remain jailed,” Yaw said.
Currently living in New York City, Yaw explained that although immigration enforcement (ICE) is not as visible in the streets as many fear, undocumented migrants face serious risks if they appear in court for cases or rejections. “If you make any mistake and go to court, it will pop up. Most people are scared of deportation, but if you avoid court, you get into even bigger trouble,” he explained.
Yaw also highlighted the realities of life in the U.S., stressing that it is far different from the glamorous picture often shown on TV. “How you live depends on you. Without legal documents, it’s very difficult to find jobs because most companies pay through tax. But if you have skills—like construction, painting, plumbing, or hairdressing—you can survive,” he added.
He shared his own struggles when he first arrived, working tedious warehouse jobs and even peeling yams for a living. “It wasn’t easy, and I felt bad doing such jobs, but they were stepping stones. Now I’ve moved past that,” he said.
Yaw noted that life abroad can be very isolating, especially with depression and limited social support. He encouraged Ghanaians abroad to socialize, network, and build connections instead of staying indoors, as that often worsens loneliness.
Finally, he prayed for legal documents (nkrataa) and urged people back home not to rush into risky migration. “Some people think within two or three years you should own a car and house, but it doesn’t work that way. America will challenge you, but if you’re determined, you can make it,” Yaw concluded.
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