Bolu (25) shares how her dream of shifting to the UK for a grasp’s diploma changed into a nightmare of debt, desperation, and selections she by no means imagined she’d make.

Let’s begin from the start. Why did you progress to the UK?

Actually? I used to be drained. Of every little thing. Nigeria was draining me. I simply wished a greater life. Individuals round me had been japa-ing and posting photos in winter jackets.

I wished that. I wished to be in a rustic the place issues labored and the place “small work” might offer you huge cash.

So I utilized for a grasp’s in 2023. Took a mortgage, offered my dad’s land (he didn’t know), and paid the deposit. The plan was easy: get to the UK, discover a job — any job — and hustle my approach by means of.

Was it straightforward adjusting?

Adjusting was the least of my issues. The chilly didn’t even shock me — what shocked me was the silence. Silence from job functions. From emails. From all of the people who promised to assist me as soon as I landed.

I used to be making use of like mad — cleaner, dishwasher, nanny, something. However the 20-hour scholar visa restrict saved getting in the best way. Employers didn’t wish to danger it.

In the meantime, my lease was due, college was sending reminders, and I used to be watching my cash end like information in Nigeria.

When did it begin to really feel like issues had been falling aside?

About three months in. My college despatched a warning: “You’re behind in your tuition. You might be withdrawn.” That very same week, I bought a message from residence.

My youthful brother was sick, and my mum wanted cash. I had nothing to ship.

I keep in mind sitting in my room, observing my reflection, questioning if I made the largest mistake of my life. I couldn’t eat. Couldn’t pray. I used to be simply… caught.

What occurred subsequent?

A woman I met at a Nigerian celebration — let’s name her Bisi — seen I used to be at all times moody and withdrawn. One night time, she requested me, “Babe, you wan hustle for actual otherwise you nonetheless dey type?” I didn’t perceive what she meant at first.

Then she instructed me a few “shopper” who was on the lookout for a younger black woman for the night time. She mentioned he pays properly. £300 for 2 hours. I instructed her I wasn’t a prostitute.

She simply laughed and mentioned, “Omo, you higher get up. This nation no get sympathy.”

That night time, I didn’t sleep. However I mentioned sure.

How did you’re feeling after your first shopper?

Numb. Soiled. Ashamed. However when the cash hit my account, I cried. Not tears of pleasure — tears of survival. As a result of for the primary time in weeks, I might breathe.

I paid a part of my charges. Purchased groceries. Even despatched my mum £50 and instructed her I used to be doing babysitting.

That was the start.

How lengthy did it go on?

It’s been over a 12 months now. I’ve seen married males, white males, males who scent like cigarettes and remorse. Some are sort.

Some are tough. Some don’t need condoms. These are those that make me really feel like I’m dying slowly.

I solely inform myself I’m doing it for varsity. For survival. However some days, I ponder who I’m turning into. The mirror doesn’t lie.

I’m not the woman who left Lagos in 2023. That woman was hopeful. This one? She simply desires to get by means of the month.

Do you remorse shifting to the UK?

Remorse is simply too mild of a phrase. However I additionally know I’m not the one one. I’ve met ladies who got here right here with first-class levels and are actually working as strippers, escorts, or “sugar infants.”

We smile in photos and publish our fairly winter coats, however no one is aware of the darkness beneath.

What would you say to somebody planning to japa?

Open your eyes. Don’t simply take a look at TikTok and Instagram. Ask laborious questions. The place will you reside? Who will help you? What is going to you do for those who don’t get a job within the first three months? Japa will not be a miracle — it’s conflict.