By Kai, our ARSP Intern.
Action Reconciliation Service for Peace
Name: Samuel Asiedu
Position: Kitchen Supervisor, The Selfhelp Home
Where are you from originally?
I’m from Ghana, West Africa.
When did you come to Selfhelp?
I was 21 years old. This year will be my eighth year working here at Selfhelp Home.
What’s it like working in the kitchen?
I love it because I met a few Ghanaians, so more people I could speak my language with! Plus, Selfhelp gave me flexible hours to go to school, and I was able to pay all my tuition without a loan. It’s one of the best places I’ve ever worked.
What were you doing before you started at Selfhelp?
I was learning and studying at Truman College, and then I got a chance to work at Selfhelp. A friend who worked here brought me over, and I started working while I continued going to school.
What did you study?
Back in Africa, I studied agricultural science for two years. Then – I came to America. I was doing working on getting my associate’s degree in Science at Truman. When I started working at Selfhelp, I was able to go to UIC where I studied nutrition science with a minor in food science. I graduated in May, 2024!
What things do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I like to be with family and friends, play music, exercise, cook, and watch TV.
Do you have any family in Chicago?
Yes. My mom, my dad and my two brothers.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
I would say – be honest. Don’t be a hypocrite.
What is the nicest country you have ever been to?
Since America is the only country I’ve traveled to outside of my country – I would say America.
Where would you like to go?
When I have money, Greece.
What is the biggest difference between Ghana and the USA?
Ghana is more entertaining and fun. America has more of a one-way lifestyle (work-home-work-home) and it’s hard to make friends here because everyone seems busy.
What kind of music do you listen to?
I listen to Jamaican and Ghanaian dancehall music. I listen to Shut the Wally, Vibes Cartel, Travel Lounge, Jamil, Sizzler, Buju Banton, and Black Sheriff. I don’t really like American music. And a little bit of drill music from the UK, like Abracadabra who’s one of my favorite drill artists.
Thank you, Samuel! The Selfhelp staff is lucky to have you on our staff!
