From Ghana Fire Service to UK Success: The Inspiring Story of Kwabena Bonsu
Kwabena Bonsu, a Ghanaian currently based in London, United Kingdom, has been living in the UK for the past two years. He recently appeared on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide show with DJ Nyaami, where he shared his remarkable journey from the Ghana National Fire Service to building a new life abroad.
Back in Ghana, Kwabena completed his studies at Prempeh College before joining the Ghana Fire Service, where he was stationed at the Tema Regional Headquarters. Through his dedication and experience in fire safety, his aunt decided to sponsor him to the UK.
“The visa process took just three months. I took leave from work so that if things didn’t go well, I could return to Ghana — but when I arrived, the UK experience was amazing,” he recalled.
Kwabena emphasized that traveling abroad isn’t for the rich, but for hustlers.
“When you’re in Ghana, no one asks you for money, but once you travel, everyone starts asking. Abroad separates you from your friends.”
Upon arrival, Kwabena began with a warehouse job, which he described as extremely demanding. Drawing on his background in fire safety, he later searched for a fire safety–related role and was hired after presenting his Ghanaian credentials. Despite discouragement from some people, he remained focused.
“I don’t listen to negative advice. Quality people don’t talk too much — they speak once, and that’s enough.”
Through hard work and determination, Kwabena earned a promotion to supervisor level. Within a year, he had visited 32 cities across the UK, earning between £4,000 and £5,000 per month. His new role also provided accommodation and flexible working hours.
“I work 12-hour shifts but get paid for 24 hours. The company gives us big apartments to rest. I didn’t depend on anyone — even when my uncle couldn’t help, I found my job on Indeed by myself.”
Kwabena noted that life in the UK isn’t as easy as people imagine:
“The stress can drive you crazy if you’re not strong. The first week I arrived, I called my mother and told her they might bring my body back to Ghana because of how hard things were.”
He also observed that many people abroad struggle with homelessness, documentation issues, or broken relationships.
“If a woman brings you abroad, it’s tough. Some men even end up on the streets because of relationship problems.”
To advance his career, Kwabena completed a certification in IOSH Managing Safely, which helped him secure another promotion.
“UK life is hard, but I’m ready to make it work. Hard work, prayer, and persistence are what keep me going.”
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