Yetti Tabai, a Nigerian woman who left her home country at a young age to pursue her dreams, has overcome numerous challenges and setbacks in her quest for education and success in the United Kingdom. Struggling to pay her school fees, she worked multiple jobs, faced isolation, and adapted to the cultural differences between Nigeria and the UK. However, her determination and hard work have paid off, leading her to achieve her goals and establish a thriving business. This article explores Yetti Tabai’s inspiring journey, highlighting her resilience, achievements, and the lessons that can be learned from her experiences.
Leaving Nigeria at the age of 15, Yetti Tabai embarked on a journey to pursue higher education in the United Kingdom. However, she encountered unforeseen obstacles that required her to repeat her secondary education and spend three years studying A Levels before entering university. These challenges not only delayed her academic progress but also created financial burdens.
Yetti Tabai’s struggle to pay her university fees became a turning point in her life. Initially expecting to receive a student loan, she was disappointed when her application was rejected. Determined to overcome the financial obstacles, she took on two jobs, working at McDonald’s and Nando’s, to cover her expenses. This dedication came at a cost, as she had to sacrifice attending lectures and relied on online studying to complete her degree. Despite the challenges, Yetti Tabai’s resilience and unwavering commitment to her education enabled her to overcome these hardships.
After completing her law degree, Yetti Tabai decided to pursue a career in information technology, recognizing the potential for better financial stability. This choice allowed her to invest in her passion for entrepreneurship. Using the money earned from her IT job, she opened two successful restaurants in Milton Keynes and Manchester, respectively. Furthermore, she ventured into the music industry, showcasing her versatility and drive to explore new horizons.
Yetti Tabai’s experience in the UK highlighted significant cultural differences between Nigeria and her new environment. She emphasized the isolation and lack of a close-knit community that she had been accustomed to in Nigeria. In the UK, she discovered the need to rely on oneself, with limited networks available for support. However, she acknowledged the British perception of Nigerians as resilient and hardworking individuals, which helped her gain recognition and appreciation for her achievements.
Yetti Tabai shed light on the “Japa syndrome,” referring to Nigerians leaving their home country to seek better opportunities abroad. While this trend has benefited many Nigerians, policy changes in the UK, such as increasing tuition fees and altering educational landscapes, have disrupted the plans and goals of those who left Nigeria with the intention of returning. These changes have also affected individuals who planned to transition to other countries, resulting in financial instability and uncertainty.
Despite the challenges faced by Nigerians in the UK, Yetti Tabai remains optimistic about the future. She believes in the potential of Nigeria and continues to invest in the country, recognizing the progress being made. Yetti Tabai’s family has been a pillar of support throughout her journey, enabling her to overcome hurdles and achieve her goals.
Yetti Tabai’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. Her journey from Nigeria to the United Kingdom showcases the challenges faced by international students and immigrants, highlighting the need for support networks and proactive approaches to overcome obstacles. Yetti Tabai’s achievements in education, entrepreneurship, and music serve as an inspiration to others, demonstrating the power of hard work and perseverance. Her story also sheds light on the importance of policy changes and support systems that can foster a conducive environment for immigrants and diaspora communities. As Yetti Tabai continues to make strides in her entrepreneurial endeavors, she remains a symbol of hope and an ambassador for the Nigerian community in the UK.
