ACE Money Transfer - Blog

Lost and Found: Discovering Yourself through Cultural Immersion in the UK as a Gambian

Lost and Found: Discovering Yourself through Cultural Immersion in the UK as a Gambian

31 Oct 2023


Are you a Gambian curious about the living style of the UK? Let's have a detailed discussion on the life and cultural traditions of people in the UK. Gambians are moving to the UK to find better career opportunities to build themselves and to send money online to Gambia from UK.

 

Cultural immersion involves becoming a part of another culture by engaging with local people and learning about their way of life. In the United Kingdom, where cultures intertwine and histories collide, some individuals seek to unearth the depths of their own identity. For a Gambian person coming to the UK, this experience is more than just travelling to a new place. It's a chance to learn about different ways of life, languages, and beliefs, going beyond just the physical distance.

 

As a Gambian exploring the UK, you will encounter enriched cultures, traditions, and lifestyles that can influence your personal growth.

 

What are the Strategies to Embrace Diversity?

According to The Point Newspaper of Gambia, there are an estimated 20,000 Gambians in the UK, but a recent study calculated that 36,279 Gambia-born migrants lived in the UK in 2020. UN DESA data from 2019 shows that many Gambians are struggling in the UK to establish themselves and make money transfers to Gambia.

 

As a Gambian, cultural immersion in the UK involves more than adapting to a new environment. It's about learning from the different cultures; understanding the mix of cultures is a big part of discovering who you are in a foreign country. You can embrace cultural exchange by;

 

Open-mindedness 

Approach every new experience with an open mind. This openness will enable you to learn and grow. Be willing to accept and understand cultural differences without judgment. It is only possible if you have a growth mindset.

 

Engage with Locals

Try conversing with locals from various backgrounds. Learn about their traditions, customs, and everyday lives. This interaction will provide you with valuable insights into different ways of living. Learn and adopt the culture by participating in their events and celebrations to get familiarised with British culture.

 

Learn the Language

The role of language is like a bridge connecting two diverse communities. Start learning their language if you want to get immersed in a different culture. With the help of language, you will understand their perspective and discover their ways of living.

 

By seeking language, you will become capable of securing some good jobs. As you'll be facing no communication barrier, you will get the chance to work and earn. You will be able to resolve all your issues at your workplace. Hence, you'll earn a good reputation, and you can send money to Gambia by multiplying the earnings. 
 

Practice the Norms of the UK

Understand the commonly practised cultural norms and etiquette in the UK. It will help you to integrate into the new environment more seamlessly. Festivals play a significant role in UK culture; almost 800 music festivals occur annually in the UK. More than that, the UK has festivals for wellness, arts, literature, and food.

 

Faith and Spirituality

In the UK, there's a variety of religious beliefs due to its multiculturalism. Christianity has been the main religion for a long time. Religions like Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism are also widely practised in the United Kingdom.

 

Connecting Across Borders

One of the essential aspects of being a Gambian in the UK is staying connected with your roots. This connection is not just emotional but also practical regarding financial transactions. There are various convenient ways to send money to Gambia from UK. Many individuals opt for reliable online platforms that offer fast and secure services, allowing you to provide financial support to your loved ones back home.

 

Discovering Yourself

Recognising your identity and keeping it with you is very important. You must engage in activities encouraging self-discovery, such as art, music, or nature walks. These activities can help you connect with your inner self, and you will not fall into an identity crisis. Maintain a journal to record your experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Reflect on how each new experience shapes your understanding of the world.

 

The Dynamic Landscape of the UK Economy

The UK is the 5th largest economy in the world. The UK economy thrives in a world marked by rapid shifts and challenges, offering a compelling narrative of resilience and growth. You can make yourself by taking advantage of the UK's strong economy and establishing yourself.

 

Stay Updated

As a Gambian in the UK, you must stay updated about all the rules and regulations of the UK. Monitor currency exchange rates and find the cheapest way to send money to Gambia. Keep hovering over the online portals to look for advanced jobs and educational journeys.

 

Working in the UK

The first step towards establishing yourself in the UK is securing meaningful employment. The dynamic and competitive job market offers several opportunities in different sectors and industries. Research thoroughly and utilise online job portals and networking events to connect with potential employers.

 

Financial Planning and Management

Establishing a stable financial foundation is essential to discovering yourself in the UK. Understand the taxation system, open a local bank account, and familiarise yourself with the currency exchange rates. Consider both living and potential investments. Explore local financial services in wealth management and long-term planning. Moreover, you can learn how to send money to the Gambia instantly from abroad.

 

In the UK, as a Gambian, you should learn to fit into a different culture and way of life. It is an essential journey for you. You should be open to new ideas and be willing to learn from the people around you. Learn the language well. It will help you to find jobs and support your families in Gambia. Stay reasonable with money and explore your interests, like art or nature. It will help you keep your own identity. 

By staying connected to their roots and informed about rules and job opportunities, Gambians in the UK can also grow personally and help their new communities.

Wrap Up

Embarking on a new journey in the UK as a Gambian isn't just about changing locations; it's a profound exploration of self and culture. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours of British life, connect with locals, embrace diverse traditions, and find the perfect balance between your roots and the world around you. In the UK, you're not just adapting; you're evolving, embracing new perspectives, and growing personally. It's a unique opportunity to redefine your identity, bridge the gap between cultures, and make your mark by earning.

 

By delving into this enriching cultural immersion, you're not just shaping your future; it will ensure the progress of your country. By using ACE Money Transfer, you can make money transfers from the UK to Gambia securely and efficiently.

 

FAQs

What values are important in British culture? 

Personal space, fair play, punctuality, and love for traditions are important in British culture. So, if you plan to move abroad, you should adopt these things.

Is living in the UK challenging?

Living in a new culture can also be challenging, but you feel at home once you adjust. Challenges may include language barriers, new social norms, and homesickness. However, these challenges can be overcome with patience, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn.

What is cultural immersion?

Cultural immersion refers to fully engaging and integrating oneself into a different culture. It is usually needed when someone travels to another place to work and earn money to support their family.

Is learning English necessary for cultural immersion in the UK?

It is not mandatory, but learning English greatly enhances cultural immersion. It improves communication, helps understand cultural distinctions, and opens up more opportunities.

What are some cultural norms I should be aware of in the UK?

Respect for queuing, politeness, punctuality, and a love for traditions are important cultural norms in the UK. Understanding these will help you integrate better.

 

Reference Links:

https://thepoint.gm/africa/gambia/headlines/post-brexit-uk-toughens-on-immigration-eu-fears-worse-laws-20000-gambians-could-be-affected


Life & Culture Travel Abroad

PREVNEXT
Unlocking Expat Banking: Key Strategies for Managing Your Bank Account in Canada as an Overseas Nepalese Worker
How to Send a Postal Order
  • Categories
  • Country