Ghanaian Ex-British Army Officer Joe Shares His Journey on SVTV Africa
Ghanaian-born Joe, now based in West Midlands, Birmingham, UK, recently appeared on SVTV Africa’s “Daily Hustle Worldwide” show with DJ Nyaami. He opened up about his life in Ghana, his journey to the UK, his time in the British Army, and his transition to civilian life.
Joe grew up in Agona, Ashanti Region, Ghana. He started his undergraduate studies at Coms University College of Studies (Kumasi branch) but didn’t complete his degree. Instead, he worked as a teacher while waiting for an opportunity to travel abroad, as his brothers were already overseas.
His older brother, who was in the British Army, invited him to the UK for his wedding. After securing his visa, Joe left Ghana without informing his employer. Before traveling, he had believed life abroad was luxurious, even thinking cars were given out for free. However, reality soon proved otherwise.
Initially, Joe had limited opportunities upon arriving in the UK. His brother, who had faced his own struggles, encouraged him to join the British Army. Joe was not physically fit at the time but worked hard to meet the army’s demanding requirements. Surprisingly, the recruitment process was swift, and within three months, he was enlisted.
Joe served in the British Army for nearly 14 years, traveling extensively across Europe, Dubai, Cyprus, and Estonia. As a logistics officer, he was responsible for supplying food, accommodation, and essential materials to troops. He described his time in the army as both rewarding and challenging.
Joe acknowledged that Black soldiers often had to work harder than their White counterparts to gain promotions. He observed that favoritism and social connections played a big role in career advancement within the army. While he focused on doing his job, he noted that many Black soldiers struggled with lack of confidence and assertiveness, which affected their progress.
Joe also shared that serving in war zones, such as Jordan (2015-2016), was a terrifying experience. He constantly feared for his life and felt immense relief when his deployment ended. His mother passed away in 2012, and the emotional toll, coupled with the harsh conditions of military life, left him physically and mentally drained.
After years of service, Joe left the army in May 2023 due to frustration and dissatisfaction with his rank and promotion prospects. Though the army offered financial support and transition programs for soldiers who served over 12 years, the adjustment to civilian life was still challenging. He found civilian jobs demanding, as unlike in the army, where he got paid regardless, he now had to work harder to earn a living.
Joe has been in the UK for 16 years and has built a stable life. He brought his wife and in-laws to the UK and prioritizes family time despite his busy schedule. Unlike many couples who argue over child benefits, Joe and his wife have a structured financial plan. He pays the mortgage and major bills, while his wife handles household expenses and food supplies.
Their children are a top priority, and they avoid leaving them in the care of strangers. His wife is currently in university, so they coordinate childcare between themselves. He emphasized the importance of bonding with children, knowing their friends, and staying involved in their lives.
Joe is currently working on projects in Ghana, including real estate (Airbnb) and livestock farming. He previously raised goats in Ghana and visited in 2022 to oversee his business investments.
He encouraged young Ghanaians not to assume life abroad is easy. While opportunities exist, success requires hard work, resilience, and strategic planning.
Joe continues to build his future both in the UK and Ghana, balancing family, business, and personal growth.
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