I was granted a Global Talent Visa to work in the UK last month. But what else did I gain in the process?
Getting the visa was hard work, and required ample energy, time, and research. I worked for six months on my application, and the relief of closing that chapter is indescribable. I achieved what I set out to do, and I have been granted tangible evidence that I have the skills and the talent to pursue my lifelong dream. To have the most impartial of sources tell me “yes, you are good enough to do this” was validation I didn’t realize I needed.
All artists, in my experience, tend to self doubt, to nitpick, to question. Am I worthy of this? Have I worked hard enough? What do I bring to the table? An old teacher of mine used to call it “compare and despair.” We struggle to appreciate our own offerings when we are constantly wishing for someone else’s. However, this visa application process has taught me that I am, in fact, worthy. I have worked hard enough and I bring something valuable to the table. My family and friends have always supported me, but it feels even more meaningful when an unbiased (and highly regarded) source gives you that same endorsement — literally and figuratively.
Through the application process, I had to reach out to quite a few industry folk for different kinds of support. I needed confirmation statements, letters of recommendation, signatures, etc. I dreaded having to hound so many people, especially some of whom I hadn’t spoken to or worked with in years. I was incredibly touched when everyone got back to me, eager to help in any way they could. My wide-spread village truly rallied and wanted to see me succeed. Feeling that kind of love and support coming from three continents meant the world to me. It emboldened my resolve to get this visa and make my community proud. To prove to them, as well as myself, that I was worthy of their support.
Along the way, I was surprised to meet so many fellow artists also applying for this visa, struggling with the same anxiety, uncertainty, and confusion that plagued me. We were all weighed down by the same sodden blanket, and soon discovered we could share the load. I wasn’t walking this long twisty road alone; I had people beside me. People who blossomed from strangers to acquaintances to friends. I feel so lucky to have met the wonderful expats who share my dream and my drive, who trudged through this process alongside me. A common goal (or a common enemy, depending on the day) truly does unite.
So, besides the obvious — a legal right to work and remain in the country — I have gained three valuable things from the process of applying for a Global Talent Visa:
1 – Belief in myself and my own abilities
2 – Gratitude for my community
3 – Dear, dear friendships
While I have no desire to go through this process again, it has given me much more than just a visa. It has taught me about my own resilience. It has shown me what I can achieve if I choose to fight for myself. It has proven to me that people will show up when you need them. And as I continue to live and work in UK, I feel a deepened sense gratitude for my support system, both old and new.
Written by Maggie Kelly
About Maggie
Maggie Kelly is a Canadian dancer and fitness instructor currently living in London, UK. Maggie is enjoying life as a freelance artist, and exploring what London has to offer!
