Charles Shares Story Behind His Wife, Obaa Leti — Italy’s First Ghanaian Female Truck Driver
Charles, a Ghanaian based in Italy, proudly shares the inspiring journey of his wife, Obaa Leticia, believed to be the first Ghanaian female truck driver in Italy.
Charles explained that he has lived in Italy for about 15 years. Originally from Akim Banjo in Ghana, he was based in Kpone before migrating. Before moving abroad, he sold iron rods and cement in Ghana—a business that was doing fairly well. However, when the Italian government opened opportunities for family reunification and work, his brother helped him migrate in 2010. He left the hardware business to his wife, but they eventually closed it when she joined him in Italy.
Life in Italy wasn’t easy at first. Charles began with factory jobs but soon found an opportunity to learn welding. Through practice and determination, he became a top welder. His company later secured a contract with Ferrari, which allowed him to attend truck driving school. He has since become a professional truck driver.
Charles mentioned that although there might be other Ghanaian women driving trucks, he personally has not encountered any until Obaa Leticia. He emphasized that truck driving offers more freedom compared to factory work, where conditions can be more controlling. According to him, it’s not just about the money but the quality of life and autonomy.
Raising children in Italy has been positive for them. Charles noted that the crime rate in his area (Bologna) is low, and Italian children grow up with respect and security. He feels safer raising his family there compared to reports from cities like Naples.
Married since 2007, Charles described his wife as a hardworking and understanding woman who has helped him become a better man. Inspired by TikTok videos of others teaching, he started filming short driving lessons with encouragement from Leticia. Today, he has students from all over Italy learning from him.
He also highlighted that learning Italian is essential for survival and success. Charles teaches Ghanaian immigrants how to understand Italian driving license lessons by translating them into Twi. He offers weekend classes (Saturdays and Sundays) and has helped many Ghanaians pass their driving exams.
Charles emphasized that while many people think Italy is only about farming and tomato picking, there are many other job opportunities. Though agricultural work exists, there are specialized jobs in warehouses, factories, and transportation. He encourages new migrants to focus less on chasing quick money and more on building skills that will help them long-term.
His TikTok account, Charleslet Driving Lessons, provides high-quality driving education to help immigrants integrate better and succeed in Italy.
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