A former employee of the United Bank for Africa b has shed light on her surprising decision to quit her banking job in Nigeria and relocate to Italy, where she now works as a dishwasher, a move that has since generated mixed reactions on social media.
The woman, who goes by the TikTok username @freshstartdiaries, first caught public attention in August after she shared a video disclosing that she had once worked with UBA before walking away from her “stable and comfortable” position to start over abroad. The video went viral almost instantly, sparking conversations online about career choices, migration, and the sacrifices that come with seeking a better life outside Nigeria.
In an interview with a media outlet, the ex-banker opened up about the motivations behind her bold move. She admitted that her current wages in Italy were not comparable to her previous salary as a banker in Nigeria, but she emphasized that financial gains were never her main reason for leaving. Instead, her decision was based on the desire to find peace of mind, achieve personal freedom, and embrace new opportunities that could only be found abroad.[/p>
Why she chose dishwashing over banking
Explaining further, she said that leaving Nigeria was more about freedom, growth, and keeping alive the dreams of her late father. She revealed that her father had always promised to send her abroad once she completed her education in Nigeria, but he sadly passed away 15 years ago before fulfilling that wish. She explained that moving abroad and starting fresh—even in a humble job like dishwashing—was her way of honoring his memory and fulfilling his dream.
“I had a good and stable job, but deep down I wanted a life that offered freedom, growth, and the chance to explore the world. My father used to say he would take me abroad once I graduated, but he passed away long before he could. So, I made that dream my mission. Everything I’m doing today is for him, and I know he would be proud of me,” she shared.
Finding dignity in every job
The ex-banker also pushed back against critics who believe that moving from banking to dishwashing was a downgrade. She maintained that every honest job carries dignity, and what matters most is the peace, self-respect, and growth it brings. She said the simpler life in Italy has taught her patience, humility, and self-reliance, which she considers priceless compared to the stress she once faced working in the banking sector.
“People might say washing dishes is less important than banking, but I see dignity in every honest job. This job has given me peace, simplicity, and a sense of freedom I never had before. I’ve learned lessons about life, humility, and independence—things money cannot buy,” she explained.
Her story has since resonated with thousands online, sparking debates on migration, the pursuit of happiness, and redefining success beyond financial status.
Watch her viral video below …
@freshstartdiaries
I worked with 2 big banks in Nigeria, now I wash plates in Italy 🇮🇹 My immigrant story #naijatiktok #LifeAbroad #ItalyLife #foryoupage❤️❤️ #storytime My journey from Banker to Dishwasher in Italy 🇮🇹
♬ original sound – @FreshStartDiaries