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Individual Reminiscences
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'Our experience of being Africans in the Diaspora'
The purpose of these sessions was to share and explore aspects of individual and personal journeys for two Africans coming from Ghana to live in the UK, sharing and reminiscing about life over here. |
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Vicky’s personal recollection of her experience as an African living in the UK
Background:
- 1974 – 1991: teacher in Ghana for over 20 years
- 1983: met husband
- 1984: got married
- 1985: had a son
- 1987: joined her husband in 1991 whilst he was studying at Oxford
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They moved to Cambridge whilst her husband was undertaking his PhD at Cambridge University. Essentially Vicky’s husband studying here in the UK was what brought her to England.
Initial Thoughts...
It was a culture shock coming to live in the UK. The weather was terrible and Vicky had great difficulties finding a job.
However, Vicky felt that living in Africa, leaders generally do not make it easy for the common man. There is misappropriation of funds, however as long as you manage your resources well you will be OK and be able to provide support to family and friends. Whilst in Ghana she had managed to attain a good work/life balance.
As an African living in the UK it was not so easy. She had to apply a realistic approach and have a sense of purpose. As mature people it has been harder to adapt to the system. There is lack of respect, particularly in the younger generation.
Vicky felt one of the key issues is about difference and understanding difference. Racism exists and you just find a way of living and coping with it. You do not put up with it and you challenge it where necessary. We know we are different and acknowledge that, however the disrespect can really hurt.
What has kept Vicky going in her words is ‘I know why I am here and achieving my goal to eventually return to Ghana, as there is a feeling of not being welcomed’. Though an impression of welcome is created there is always an underlying sense of resentment.
Vicky is focused on her goals, her principles and sense of purpose. Living here in the UK has given Vicky and her family the opportunity to plan ahead.
One of the advantages of living here is that the law is implemented, which safeguards you as a citizen as long as you are law abiding and to a certain degree you can live happily, in peace and some harmony!
That light at the end of the tunnel is like Utopia. The end point is the realisation of her goal to return to Ghana and live.
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