Nana Agyei Sikapa, currently based in Brampton, Ontario, appeared on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide show hosted by DJ Nyaami. He moved to Canada in July 2024 and now works in a warehouse.
Before relocating, Nana lived and worked in Aburi. He had experience in sales and also worked with computers and laptops. He was once employed at Build World Construction, selling materials, though he didn’t learn hands-on construction skills. His brother, a mason foreman, once tried introducing him to electrical work, but Nana backed out due to fear of electric shocks—something he now regrets.
Nana had no initial desire to travel, as he wanted to join the army, but it didn’t work out. Eventually, his father—who was in the Czech Republic—gave him the option between moving to Canada or the Czech Republic. Nana chose Canada, and his father started the process. Unlike many, he didn’t struggle much because his in-laws had already gone through the process and guided him. His trip involved a transfer in Paris, and he got a visa without using any agency.
Now in Canada, he works in a warehouse where he was hired permanently this year. He emphasized that having a forklift driving skill can greatly improve your chances of getting a job in Canada. If you already know how to operate one in Ghana, you can get certified in Canada within a day. However, he cautions that student workers often don’t get enough hours, as many agencies only hire full-time workers Monday to Friday.
Nana noted that rent is expensive in Canada, pushing many to work extra hours just to stay afloat. He used to enjoy working in Ghana, but quickly realized how tough work life is in Canada. Even simple things like taking public transport can be exhausting.
His advice to Ghanaian youth:
“If you’re in your 20s and have no stable business in Ghana, consider coming to Canada. But if you already have something going for you, stay.”
Nana aims to save about $60,000 CAD to return to Ghana and open a computer accessories shop. However, he acknowledges it might take 5 to 10 years to reach that goal unless he lands a high-paying job, like one earning $40/hour—far above his current $19/hour through an agency.
He warns others:
“Don’t sell everything in Ghana just to travel. If things don’t work out, returning is tough. Some people have been here 5 years and haven’t saved even $6,000.”
Nana remains focused on his goals. He didn’t move to Canada for fun or leisure but to build a future. He encourages those interested in coming to Canada to consider skilled jobs like forklift driving, which are in demand.