Marital Abuse Led Me to Iraq, But Worse Awaits — Fashion Designer Tijani
A Journey of Resilience and Transformation
Mrs. Shakirat Tijani, a Lagos-based fashion designer, has a story that reflects the challenges many face when life takes unexpected turns. Her journey from Nigeria to Iraq was driven by personal struggles and a desire for change. Through her experiences, she discovered new perspectives and opportunities.
Background and Early Life
Born in Ijegun, Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos, Mrs. Tijani's early life was marked by loss and uncertainty. After her father passed away, she moved to live with her aunt in Ibadan, Oyo State. Her dreams of higher education were disrupted when her aunt could not sponsor her studies. Despite this setback, she continued learning fashion design while working as a salesgirl in a local shop. This period laid the foundation for her future endeavors.
The Decision to Leave Nigeria
Marital challenges played a significant role in her decision to leave Nigeria. She faced domestic violence and struggled to find support. In search of a better life, she considered traveling to Cairo, but concerns about safety and the nature of work there made her reconsider. It was through a travel agent on TikTok that she learned about opportunities in Iraq. The agent suggested jobs as a house help or caregiver, which aligned with her skills in manicure and pedicure.
Preparing for the Journey
Before leaving, Mrs. Tijani conducted her own research on Iraq, hearing mixed stories about the country’s safety and conditions. Despite the warnings, she felt compelled to take the risk. The agent provided guidance and support, ensuring that all expenses were covered. However, the contract came with strict conditions, including restrictions on relationships and personal freedom.
Arrival in Iraq
Upon arriving in Baghdad, Mrs. Tijani was lodged in a large house with other women, all seeking employment. The experience was bittersweet, filled with both hope and uncertainty. She quickly found a job as a house help, but the reality of the position proved challenging. The workload was intense, and she faced difficulties in adapting to the environment.
Challenges in the First Job
The first job as a house help involved cleaning a three-storey building, which was physically demanding. The children in the household were disrespectful, and their mother did not intervene. The lack of rest and the inability to eat Nigerian food added to her stress. Additionally, the family restricted her access to her phone, causing distress when she missed important calls from Nigeria.
Transition to a Caregiver Role
After quitting the first job, Mrs. Tijani found another opportunity as a caregiver for an elderly woman. This role required her to bathe, feed, and change the diapers of the elderly woman, which was emotionally and physically taxing. Despite the challenges, she found a sense of purpose in caring for the woman.
Social Media Success
During her time in Iraq, Mrs. Tijani began using TikTok to share her experiences. Her videos gained traction, especially after a video featuring her playing with the children went viral. This exposure led to increased engagement and opened up new opportunities for her.
Financial and Personal Growth
Despite the challenges, Mrs. Tijani managed to earn $250 per month, along with food and accommodation. However, the conditions eventually became unbearable, leading her to end the contract. She now focuses on her business and social media presence, leveraging her experiences to build a new career.
Reflections and Future
Looking back, Mrs. Tijani acknowledges the hardships she faced in Iraq. While the experience was difficult, it also taught her resilience and strength. She is no longer interested in returning to Iraq, focusing instead on her growing ventures. Her journey highlights the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the face of adversity.
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