Let me start by saying that I love my job. I get to wake up every day and do what I love–designing websites for entrepreneurs and small businesses. I’m proud to say that I’m one of the few web designers in Ghana, and I believe that our country has a lot of potential when it comes to the internet and digital economy.
I was visiting my family there when I realized that so many businesses in Ghana didn’t have websites. And of those that did, most of them were outdated and not user-friendly. I saw an opportunity to help businesses in Ghana grow by creating websites that were stylish, modern, and easy to use. So, I quit my job, moved to Ghana, and started my own web design business.
The challenges of being a web designer in Ghana
Ghana is a great place to be a web designer—there’s a lot of opportunity here. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. There are some challenges that come with the territory, like unreliable internet and power outages. These can make it difficult to get work done sometimes, but I’ve learned to try to take them in stride. After all, these challenges are just a part of life here in Ghana.
Another challenge is working with clients who may not have a lot of experience with websites or even computers. This can make it difficult to communicate what exactly needs to be done in order for the website to meet their needs. But again, it’s just something that comes with the territory and something that I’ve learned to deal with over time.
The rewards of being a web designer in Ghana
Despite the challenges, there are plenty of rewards that come with being a web designer in Ghana. One of the best parts is seeing the businesses I work with succeed and grow because of the websites I created for them. It’s so gratifying to know that my work is making a difference in the lives of others and helping businesses thrive. I get to work with. Although there aren’t many of us, the community of web designers in Ghana is supportive and close-knit. We all help each other out and exchange tips and ideas on a regular basis.
Another great thing about being a web designer in Ghana is the people. Everyone here is so friendly and welcoming, and I feel like I’m part of a community. That wasn’t something I ever felt back in the U.S., and it’s one of the things that make me happy to call Ghana home now.
Although it’s not always possible, one of the great things about being a web designer is that you can often work from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection! This means that you can travel and still maintain your livelihood which is pretty amazing if you ask me!
If you had told me 5 years ago that I would be living in Ghana as a web designer, I would have laughed in your face—but life has a funny way of working out sometimes. Taking the leap into entrepreneurship can be scary but, as they say, sometimes you just have to go for it. And if you do, you might just find yourself surprised by how rewarding it can be—like I did.