Adapting to UK Culture: Survival to Thrival 💪
Know who you are, where you're from and use that as your superpower.
Global talent visas are a way for young people to develop and fast-track their careers and we have been delving deep into topics such as:
Job Security with Luani Chibesakunda from Zambia;
Visa Restrictions with Aliphine Tikolo from Kenya;
Navigating the Cost of Living with Kofi Mensah from Ghana;
The complexities of moving home with family with Patrice Mugabe;
Understanding the UK tax system with Rachel Fortescue; and
Navigating finances in the UK with Raffaella Forte
This week, we meet Akua Bartow, a London-based UX/UI professional originally from Ghana. Akua is part of Kofi’s network and acts as a Culture Buddy for talent hailing from West Africa. Akua’s role is to assist new talent better understand and adjust to their new cultural environment, which can be a challenge. Navigating language barriers, social norms, work styles and daily routines may vary significantly from what people are used to.
The UK, with its rich tapestry of history, modern cities and vibrant arts scene, offers a plethora of opportunities for global talent. But assimilating into a new culture extends beyond having professional skills and understanding the language; it dives deep into the nuanced world of unwritten social codes, work ethics, and daily rituals.
Enter Akua Bartow, a beacon for West African talents in London. As a seasoned UX/UI professional, Akua has been the guiding light for many navigating the choppy waters of British etiquette, helping them not just to adapt, but to flourish.
The relocation journey often begins with a heavy heart, filled with anxiety about the unknown. Adjusting to British punctuality, the subtle art of 'British politeness', the indirect communication style or even the simple act of queuing can be overwhelming.
But Akua's role as a 'Culture Buddy' helps global talent transcends these initial hurdles. She believes that the journey shouldn't just be about surviving the change, but about leveraging one's unique background to thrive in this new environment. Through her mentoring, she's illustrated that the power doesn't lie in complete assimilation but in harmonising one's original identity with the newfound culture. The blend, she opines, is where the magic happens.
Akua doesn't just provide counselling sessions. She actively connects newcomers to local organisations and support networks. Recognising the transformative power of collective experiences, she accompanies talent to UK cultural events, facilitating interactions that help in better assimilation.
Interview with Akua
W3A: Akua, thank you for joining us today. We know you are a busy person.
Akua: Thank you for having me.
W3A: Of course! Where shall we start. You have so many interesting stories. OK, can you please share a story that you have witnessed as a Culture buddy that highlights the pitfalls of not understanding cultural nuances in the UK?
Akua: Certainly! I recall a talented gentleman from Nigeria, skilled in his field but unfamiliar with the British way of feedback. He often felt disheartened by his colleagues' indirect criticism, misinterpreting it as dissatisfaction. It was really sad, because it affected his confidence and performance. But once he understood the subtle British communication style, he began to flourish.
W3A: Interesting. You helped him understand the differences?
Akua: Yes, we had a few conversations. But it is not just about the work of global talent to learn. At times, it is about employers learning also. The guy in question; Femi, also had a habit of sighing when he felt relaxed and relieved and people would often interpret that as frustration or boredom, which did not work well in corporate. I also experienced that specific issue. It takes a bit of courage a self-awareness. The self-awareness plays a part in realising what is happening and how certain automatic responses you have may be negatively affecting perception of your interest and commitment at work; and then having the courage and assertiveness to state what sighing means for you and that it does not reliably indicate disinterest or frustration. We are all different.
W3A: Wow
Akua: I know right! Culture plays a major role in one’s experience. Do you remember there was a time in Ghana where a thumbs up used to be a profanity.
W3A: Really?
Akua: Really. Ask your mum.
W3A: Wow. Have you have issues with Ghana man time?
Akua: Don’t even go there! I had to school. a few people that here it means Greenwich Mean Time not Ghana man time and that showing up regularly ten to thirty minutes late is is the fastest way to indirectly request a P45.
W3A: I bet jokes too are a problem right?
Akua: O my goodness. yes, banter. Or shall I say “ban’ a”.
W3A: O Yes, my bad. “ban’ a”
Akua: We do not have enough time for “ban’ a”. We could be here a while.
W3A: Gosh! So, how pivotal is a support network in this transition?
Akua: Immensely! While independence is admirable, having a supportive community accelerates the process. They provide insights, share experiences, good and bad, so you can by-pass mistakes and sometimes, people just need a listening ear.
W3A: How about a success story highlighting the benefits of understanding UK culture?
Akua: Absolutely! A young woman from Ghana, after attending several cultural events with me, began mingling with influential locals. This not only boosted her business but also granted her access to key decision-makers in her industry. My girl is now living her best life and working the corridors of power. Being a cultural chameleon is not about losing or changing one’s identity, it is about adding more strings to your bow. Consider it like downloading a new app onto your iPhone and switching between apps based on your context and necessity.
W3A: Gosh, I love that. So, it's not about forgetting one's roots?
Akua: Not at all! It's about celebrating them in a new environment. Know who you are, where you're from and use that as your superpower.
W3A: Your role sounds amazing. Can I become a Culture Buddy? Where do I sign?
Akua: I know. I am a lucky girl.
Ten Takeaways:
Openness to Learn: Embrace the new while cherishing the old.
Build a Network: Join local organisations to expedite your adjustment.
Attend Cultural Events: Experience the UK's diverse cultural scene.
Seek a Mentor: Find someone who's been through the journey.
Understand Communication Styles: Brits may be indirect but are generally well-intentioned.
Celebrate Your Identity: Your uniqueness is your strength.
Practice Active Listening: Understand before being understood.
Engage in Community Activities: Immerse in local happenings.
Maintain Connections Back Home: Stay rooted while branching out.
Educate Yourself: Read books and articles about UK culture.
Join us at the next Web 3 Africa (W3A) Town Hall, where we will explore more Global Talent Visa opportunities and topics such as planning for retirement and transferring benefits.
Connect and learn from those who have walked the path, understand the intricacies and find the best fit for your dreams and ambitions. Together, let's explore global horizons!
Set your reminders and be part of the next Town Hall. Your international career awaits!
Resources for Cultural Integration:
British Council: A prominent organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities.
Meetup: A platform to find and build local communities.
Online platforms where expats discuss their experiences and offer advice.
UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs): Offers advice to international students in the UK, which includes cultural aspects.
Cultural Vistas: This organisation is more U.S.-based, but it's instrumental in cultural understanding and exchange programs.
National Union of Students (NUS): Represents students in the UK and often holds cultural integration events and provides resources.
BBC UK: The UK's public broadcaster offers a wealth of resources on British culture, history, and current affairs.
Visit Britain: The official tourist information site for England, Scotland, and Wales, offering insights into UK's cultural events and heritage.
Time Out London: Provides listings of events, restaurants, and activities in London, offering a glimpse into contemporary UK culture.
British Library: The national library of the UK offers various cultural and historical resources.