Ghanaian Project Manager Joseph currently residing in the United Kingdom, has lived there for two years. He shared his inspiring journey on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide show with DJ Nyaami, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities of life abroad.
Before relocating, Joseph was a project manager in Ghana, working on notable hospital projects such as Millar Hospital, Seiwa Hospital, and TEPA Hospital. He studied in Kumasi and earned his Master’s degree in Project Management from KNUST. By 2015, he was earning around $2,000 monthly in Ghana, but due to the economic uncertainty in the country, he began to consider moving abroad.
Joseph explained that his younger brother moved to the UK in 2012, while his wife—now a senior nurse—had already been living in the UK. In 2021, she reached out to him, expressing her struggles with raising their children alone. This prompted Joseph to join her in the UK, leaving the kids temporarily in Ghana with the plan of reuniting the family.
The transition wasn’t easy. In Ghana, Joseph drove his own car, but in the UK, he had to adapt to public transport initially. “Many people don’t tell the full reality of life abroad,” he said. “They paint a rosy picture to encourage others, but the truth is, it’s tough if you’re not prepared.”
Three months after arriving, Joseph secured his first job as a stock administrator at DHL. Though he was grateful, he wasn’t satisfied. “I wasn’t motivated by the money. I wanted to return to what I love—construction and project management.”
He pursued health and safety certifications and joined the British Association for Project Management, understanding that without the proper licenses and planning, one could easily get stuck doing low-skilled jobs. “I knew I couldn’t remain a labourer forever,” he said. “With strategic planning and the right credentials, things change.”
Eventually, Joseph got back into construction, working in Category B projects. His past employer even contacted him to return. He currently earns between £250 and £400 a day, and project management roles pay between £3,000 and £4,000 monthly—excluding bonuses and incentives. “Some companies offer £8,000 to £10,000 in incentives and even provide cars. Fuel costs can be claimed, and pensions and holiday pay are covered,” he explained.
Now self-employed through an agency, he files his taxes annually. His construction projects have spanned five years, delivering multiple housing units. Despite the early struggles, Joseph finds his work in the UK fulfilling. “As a manager, you’re the first to arrive and the last to leave the site. It’s not easy, but it’s rewarding.”
He advises Ghanaians planning to relocate to come with a clear strategy. “Those who come without skills or a degree often struggle. But if you plan, acquire the right certifications, and focus, there’s a lot you can achieve here.”
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