Ernest, a Ghanaian based in the United Kingdom, has shared hard truths about life abroad, urging Ghanaians to change their mindset about travelling and working overseas.
Speaking on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide Show with DJ Nyaami, Ernest said many Ghanaians are naturally discouraged from learning new skills. According to him, some people resist being taught because they feel they already know enough, which ends up limiting their opportunities abroad.
Ernest stressed that there are many jobs available in the UK, and not all of them are menial. He explained that having a driver’s licence alone can open several doors. “If you have the chance to get a driver’s licence and you don’t, I pity you,” he said.
He also criticised the tendency of some migrants to ignore certifications. According to him, some Ghanaians have the physical strength and experience (“nkrataa”) but refuse to obtain certificates. Meanwhile, when other nationalities—such as Kenyans or Liberians—arrive, they quickly acquire licences and certifications, get promoted, and move ahead.
Ernest noted that many Nigerians prioritise obtaining a driver’s licence immediately after arriving, then look for further opportunities. He encouraged Ghanaians to follow the same approach by learning the system, upgrading themselves, and not sitting idle.
He added that migrants can apply for online courses, improve their skills, and even learn trades through platforms like YouTube. Ernest revealed that he has helped many hairdressers prepare their CVs, and some British-Ghanaians have learned hair braiding entirely online.
Ernest also reminded migrants to be responsible. “If someone spends money to bring you abroad, try to pay it back,” he said, citing his goddaughter who worked two jobs and repaid her travel costs in under two years.
He painted a realistic picture of hardship in the UK, noting that some people struggle so badly they survive on cheap food and still cannot afford proper meals. He warned that the first five years abroad are extremely difficult, and families in Ghana should avoid pressuring relatives overseas for money during that period.
“Some people abroad have never even been to the hospital before and can collapse while walking because of stress and exhaustion,” Ernest said.
He also debunked the belief that working abroad automatically leads to wealth back home. According to him, many people working abroad cannot afford land in Ghana, even though they appear successful. He explained that the major difference between Ghana and the UK is the system, not the money.
Ernest pointed out that while someone in Ghana may earn GHS 2,500, another person in the UK may earn £2,400, but once rent, transport, bills, and credit payments are deducted, the UK income may not be sufficient. He added that many people abroad live on loans and credit, buying phones, cars, and even houses that take years to repay.
Sharing a personal example, Ernest said he knows people in the Ghanaian community in the UK who drive expensive cars but would not be able to afford the same vehicles if they returned to Ghana.
In conclusion, Ernest urged Ghanaians to build themselves first before trying to help others, learn the system, acquire skills, and stop allowing society to brainwash them about life abroad.
“No one owes you anything,” he said. “You decide what you want to do with your life. Change your perception about ‘abrokyire.’”
Watch The Video Below;
About The Author
