I still think it’s a bit crazy that you can earn money from one country while living in another. Okay, let me rephrase, 10-year-old me would think it is crazy.

Back then, “work” meant watching people in crisp suits, briefcases in hand, heading off to offices. While that’s still true for some, today there’s another option: bringing the work to you and saving the suits for corporate headshots for LinkedIn.

For many, it means working online for companies thousands of miles away. Freelancers have perfected this, exporting their skills and earning a global income.

For this article, I spoke to five people about how they earn globally while staying rooted locally. They told me about their wins, struggles, and lessons that keep them going.

Also read: How to land your first client as a freelancer

“I had to invest in backup power and better internet” — David, designer*

I’m a graphic designer and animator, and it’s hard to pinpoint when I started. I’ve been designing since high school, doing little things for family and friends, then slowly moving on to paid jobs. Over the years, I kept climbing the ladder, one project at a time.

I earn most of my money globally as a contract graphic designer for an agency in the UK, and it’s completely changed my life. The economy in Nigeria is unpredictable, and being paid in pounds has given me a buffer.

Of course, it hasn’t been smooth sailing. My biggest challenges are unreliable electricity and poor internet. I had to invest in backup power and better internet, so I’m good now.

Chuckles

Advice for people looking to start? Hmmm, let me see… Find people who’ve already done what you want to do, study them, and apply what works. Don’t be afraid to think differently, because competing globally demands a different mindset and a different level of commitment.

Also read: How to find high-paying clients as a freelancer in Africa

“I’m already thinking about my next role” — Catherina, product designer*

I kinda stumbled into this path. After university, I realised I really liked art, drawing, and animation. At 21, I thought, “How can I turn this into money?” Graphic design was the closest option, so I leaned into it. I started working with a sports media agency, and that’s where the design journey really began. It was a bit difficult to adjust since I knew next to nothing about sports, but I adjusted quickly.

I have a full-time remote job, which has been good so far. Honestly, I can afford a lot more than I could have if I were only working locally. The only downside is that the black tax is still sucking me dry.

Challenges? Honestly, I haven’t faced anything major yet. Maybe I’ve just been lucky. I’m already thinking about my next role, but it’s been a smooth ride so far.

At work, I’m always on my toes and never wait to be chased for a task. Maybe that’s why I’ve done so well. I’m hardworking, and my output speaks for itself.

My advice to anyone who wants to earn globally is to build a strong portfolio, practice your interviews, and don’t give up. You won’t get every job you apply for, but eventually, you’ll land one.

Also read: Navigating forex regulations as a freelancer in Africa

“My mindset has helped greatly” — Chinedu, product marketer*

I live in Nigeria and work remotely as a product marketer. This flexible arrangement allows me to work across time zones while earning in foreign currency.

Curiousness and necessity pushed me in this direction. The local job market felt limited in opportunities and fair pay. Once I saw my mentors thriving by serving international clients, I knew it was possible and decided to pursue it.

Many people around me are either curious or inspired by what I do. Just believe I’m proof that global opportunities can be tapped without leaving home.

The only major problem has been adapting to different time zones and cultural expectations. It takes consistency and flexibility to keep everything running smoothly. My mindset has helped greatly. I’ve learned to see myself as a global professional, not limited by geography. That pushes me to deliver excellence, stay consistent, and communicate clearly because I know I’m competing worldwide.

If I could give one piece of advice, it’s this: start small, but start now. Pick a skill in demand globally, polish it, and put yourself out there. Build connections, nurture relationships, and be consistent. You don’t need to leave your country to access global income.

I rely on global payment platforms and digital banks to handle payments, diversifying my options so I’m never stuck. I also budget carefully in FX and naira, which helps me balance global income with local living.

Also read: How much should you charge as a freelancer?

“I never miss deadlines” — Aisha, data analyst*

I get most of my gigs through Upwork. I started by taking online courses, building a small portfolio, and applying for jobs. Landing the first client was tough, but referrals and reviews helped me grow once I did.

Earning in foreign currency has given me stability and freedom, though I still face challenges like time zone issues. Treating every gig professionally has helped me most. I always communicate clearly and never miss deadlines.

Also read: How to budget as a freelancer and manage irregular income

“Getting paid in dollars has eased the pressure of inflation” — Samuel, content writer*

Most of my clients are in the US. I started by writing blog posts for free to build samples, then used LinkedIn and cold emails to land paid gigs.

Getting paid in dollars has eased the pressure of inflation for me. It doesn’t even bother me as much as it used to. I’m just always confident that I’ll be fine.

My advice for young writers? I’m also a young writer, please. Okay, let me be serious, start small, keep learning, and put your work out there. Someone, somewhere, is willing to pay for your skill.

Also read: Cheapest way to receive USD as a freelancer

These stories prove you don’t need to relocate abroad to build a global career. With the right skills, mindset, and tools, earning in stronger currencies is possible while staying at home.

If you’re ready to take that step, Grey makes receiving your earnings simple. Sign up or download the app to get paid seamlessly from anywhere in the world, and access your money locally without stress.

Some names have been changed for anonymity*

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