Jeffery, a Ghanaian currently living in Brampton, Canada, has been residing there since 1999, marking 26 years abroad. In an interview on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide show, he shared his life story and insights about life in Canada.
According to Jeffery, violence and killings in certain parts of Canada have existed since the 1980s. He noted that some areas—especially around subway stations in busier cities—are extremely dangerous and not safe for residents.
Jeffery had his early education in Ghana at Koforidua Secondary Technical School (SECTECH). After completing school, he worked at the former Foo Supermarket in Ghana. His opportunity to travel abroad came through the support of his brother-in-law. With access to a computer room, he gained technical experience which later contributed to his success.
He explained that his family wasn’t wealthy, but they lived comfortably thanks to support from his older brothers who helped him complete secondary school. When he first arrived in Canada, he came with a student visa. However, financial pressure forced him to focus on work instead of studies to pay rent and survive. It was a tough two to three years before he managed to return to school to pursue a technical course.
Back in Ghana, the technical education system helped him build a solid foundation for skilled work. In Canada, he got a job in a manufacturing company producing equipment and eventually studied AutoCAD drawing, which involves computer-aided designs. His work now involves producing military-related items, assembling parts for private jets, and handling some components in the U.S.
Jeffery emphasized that to succeed in Canada, especially in places like Toronto, one must be strategic. A certificate from Ghana doesn’t guarantee success—if you don’t pass Canadian standards, you may have to settle for certificate courses and do menial jobs like cleaning. He also noted that many Ghanaians remain in Toronto because of the strong Ghanaian community and the support system there.
He explained that although Ghana is tough—especially with rising rent and cost of living—life abroad also comes with its own challenges. He acknowledged that while some Ghanaian-owned shops help fellow citizens, it’s more common for Nigerians to hire and support their own people.
When Jeffery first moved to Canada, he had no wife, children, or property. Today, he has built a full life with a family and assets. He also engages in voluntary work at City Hall, supporting food distribution programs for the homeless and hungry. He encourages Ghanaians abroad to give back to their communities through volunteering.
He shared a touching moment when he once saw a poor old woman and her children, who came from a farm and had no meat in their meal. He gave them money to buy more food, expressing his passion for ensuring that no one sleeps hungry.
Jeffery warned that some Ghanaians misuse NGO funds by diverting them into personal projects, including building homes back in Ghana. He concluded by saying he visited Ghana last year and remains connected to his roots, while actively supporting both the Ghanaian and Canadian communities.
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