Jason Kwao and his wife, Sumekka Selliah-Kwao, were once captivated by the allure of Dubai. However, after relocating from the UK in December 2023 to establish a business and raise their children, they are now re-evaluating their future in the city. Their journey has been greatly influenced by recent events and their evolving perception of the vibrant yet transactional lifestyle Dubai offers.

Initial Optimism and Success in Dubai

At the outset, the Kwao family envisioned a bright future in Dubai, especially drawn by its reputation as a business-friendly environment. Jason, 29, and Sumekka, 28, settled in the Dubailand area with hopes of a safer and more enriching life for their children, away from the crime-ridden streets of London. Within a year, they co-founded Intermast, a successful business-to-business sales agency, which quickly gained a valuation of £1 million. Their initial move was marked by a comfortable lifestyle, living in a spacious villa near picturesque beaches, which only added to their excitement about life in Dubai.

However, over time, the couple began to notice a growing disillusionment with their surroundings. They felt an increasing detachment from the community and became frustrated by Dubai’s focus on wealth and transactions. For them, the city’s initial charm gradually transformed into an experience that felt “plastic and not real.” Unfortunately, the recent dire geopolitical climate, highlighted by missile strikes, became a tipping point for Jason and Sumekka, prompting them to consider relocating.

A Shift in Perspective Following Personal Loss

The sudden loss of Jason’s brother, Joshua, served as an emotional catalyst for the couple. It led them to reflect deeply on their values, particularly regarding how they wanted to raise their children. Jason expressed his desire for a lifestyle built on community values rather than solely on financial gain. He emphasized that the transactional nature of Dubai, which prioritizes wealth and business, isn’t the environment he wants for his family.

Having temporarily returned to the UK to deal with Joshua’s passing, Jason and Sumekka are now contemplating a significant change. They are drawn toward Ghana, influenced by its strong sense of community and family-centered culture. Their previous vacation to Ghana left them enchanted with the warmth and the sense of togetherness displayed by its people, contrasting sharply with their experiences in Dubai.

Rethinking Family Values and Community

As Jason grapples with mourning and the future of their family, he reflects on the essence of what it means to raise children in a place where compassion outweighs materialism. “In Ghana, you see happiness in people who have very little,” he says. This realization pushes the Kwaos to look for a lifestyle enriched by love, kind relationships, and community engagement, rather than one characterized by relentless work and financial pursuits.

The couple aims to not only establish roots in Ghana but also to engage in mental health charitable work in memory of Joshua. By moving to Ghana, they hope to foster a home that emphasizes connection, emotional support, and shared experiences.

In closing, the Kwao family’s journey highlights the importance of aligning lifestyle choices with personal values. Their story resonates with many who find themselves seeking a balance between prosperity and the simpler joys of life, reflecting the universal quest for fulfillment beyond material success.