St. Patrick’s Day is here, and what better way to acknowledge the day than by revisiting our interview from four years ago with two Jamaican women living in Ireland? In this episode of Jamaicans to the World, Xavier Murphy sat down with Ethlyn Thomas and Sherene Powell-Okaforto discuss their experiences, challenges, and what life is really like as a Jamaican in the Emerald Isle.
How They Got to Ireland
Both Ethlyn and Sherene moved to Ireland through a work and travel programme. Sherene, who was studying at The Mico University College, initially intended to stay for just a few months but ended up making Ireland her home for over two decades. Ethlyn had a similar experience, initially drawn by the opportunity to earn money while studying, only to later decide to settle permanently due to the peaceful lifestyle and better economic prospects compared to Jamaica.
“I was in college and the Joyst Program and all. So I’ve heard of it the year before, didn’t have a clue what is Ireland so for me it was a frightening experience, I was like “no.” and the second year I was doing another course and they mentioned it again and said “Oh it’s a lovely little island and you really want to go there”, and I said “Okay let me try”. – Ethlyn
“I came on the same program, but Ethlyn came over before. I went to Mico Teachers College. So when we finish I said, “okay I would go for a few months before I start back work again… I wanted to go somewhere that was different and Ireland was there.” – Sherene
What They Love About Ireland
One of the biggest draws for both women was the safety and tranquility of Ireland. Coming from bustling areas in Jamaica, where crime and constant bad news weighed heavily on daily life, they appreciated being able to walk freely at any time of day without worry. The slower pace, friendly communities, and overall sense of security played a significant role in their decision to stay.
“I was able to walk on the road anytime of the night. Go anywhere without worry. Forget your key in your front door and your neighbors are there to protect your stuff. That was what I felt when I came here, that was totally different from home which was a part of my reason for staying.” – Sherene
“I was doing the math in terms of wages, and even though I was doing a mediocre job in Ireland at the time. But when I compare it to the job back home, dressing up and looking cool and going to teach and being best teacher but I wasn’t making nothing.” – Ethlyn
Challenges of Life in Ireland
However, life in Ireland is not without its struggles. The biggest adjustment? The weather! Both women laughed about Ireland’s unpredictable climate, where you can experience four seasons in a single day. Another major challenge was adjusting to the reality of race relations. While Jamaica’s social structure is largely shaped by class rather than race, in Ireland, they faced moments of racism, particularly in the early 2000s when immigration from African countries was increasing. Sherene recalled that simply identifying as Jamaican often changed people’s attitudes towards her, thanks to Jamaica’s strong global cultural influence, particularly through Bob Marley.
“…you never get used to it, no matter what you can never get used to it. You leave your house, the place look sunny by the time you get in your car and go down the road it starts to pouring rain by the time you reach work it might start to snow hail stones, it’s just this constant.” – Sherene
Staying Connected to Jamaica
Like many Jamaicans abroad, food is a major connection to home. While it used to be difficult to find Jamaican ingredients, things have improved with more Afro-Caribbean and Indian grocery stores stocking essential items like ackee and jerk seasoning. Still, when visiting Jamaica, both women make it a mission to indulge in as many local dishes as possible before returning to Ireland.
“I just make my own, I have to be creative about that, if we don’t bring them over (Jamaican ingredients), we would never get it.” – Ethlyn
Advice for Jamaicans Thinking of Moving to Ireland
For those considering making the move, Ethlyn and Sherene had one piece of advice: be prepared to adapt. Career paths often shift, requiring further education or switching professions. But with hard work and resilience, they say that Ireland offers great opportunities and a supportive Jamaican community.
“My advice to anyone who wants to leave Jamaica to come to Ireland is, be ready to adapt and adjust. It’s a beautiful place, most people are friendly. You will get a little bit of racism, but at the end of the day it’s not the worst, but be ready to adapt and adjust if you want to stay.” – Ethlyn
“…you need to be willing to learn. And you might have to make up your mind that the job that you have done back home is something totally different that you have to be here because there’s so much regulations.” – Sherene
Keeping the Jamaican Spirit Alive
Despite the distance, the Jamaican community in Ireland remains vibrant. Every year, Jamaicans in Ireland come together to celebrate Independence Day, ensuring that the culture, music, and food of home remain a central part of their lives. Whether through backyard gatherings or large organised events, the celebrations never falter, even after two decades.
Share Your Story!
Are you a Jamaican living, raising a family, or doing business abroad? Or are you married to a Jamaican or a Jamaican married to a non-Jamaican? We want to hear your story! Email us at info@jamaicans.com and let us share your experience with the world.
