Otilia Mutu: I Didn’t Just Immigrate—I Transformed

When Otilia Mutu left Romania, she wasn’t just changing her address—she was rewriting her entire life. Arriving in the UK as a single mother with nothing but determination, she faced isolation, hardship, and moments that could have broken her. But instead of giving in, she transformed. Today, Otilia is a proud British citizen, a voice for the Romanian community, and a living example of what strength, purpose, and resilience can build from the ground up.

What was it like starting a new life in the UK?

Starting over in the UK was a mix of courage and vulnerability. On one hand, I was full of hope. I came here with dreams, a strong work ethic, and a desire to build a better life. On the other hand, I faced unfamiliar systems, cultural differences, and moments of isolation.

The hardest part wasn’t the language or the laws—it was the emotional transition. As a Romanian, it wasn’t easy for me to adapt. I faced racism and a lot of challenges.

In the UK, you need a degree and experience when you choose a job. I’ve applied as a real estate agent without having knowledge but only desire. I’ve been underpaid for a period until I proved my skills, and I sold my first property. Then, I applied for the course and I’ve learned the right way to work. 

Feeling like a guest in your own life takes strength. But every challenge I faced became part of my growth. Looking back, it wasn’t just a relocation. It was a rebirth. I left back everything I had, which included a career and a family. I’ve started over, due to my divorce, I don’t have regrets, it was my way to start my life again. 

What helped you stay strong during the hard times?

I think the only thing which kept me strong was my children. The fact that I owe them an example of strength. If I want my children to be successful, I need to become one. 

My inner compass kept me grounded—my values, my faith, and the thought that someone out there needed what I would one day build. I also learned to turn pain into purpose. I’ve suffered but not for nothing; each challenge made me stronger. I’ve slept in front of the underground, I’ve been in a toxic relationship, and I faced problems which I never experienced. 

Hard times taught me discipline, but also empathy. I looked around and realised I wasn’t the only one struggling. And somehow, knowing that made me stronger. I stayed focused by turning every setback into fuel and reminding myself, “This story will help someone one day.”

Why is it important for you to stay connected to your culture?

I haven’t been connected from the beginning, it took me time to realise I need to stay connected.

But I’ve realised your roots are your foundation. Even in a new country, your culture carries your identity, your way of seeing the world, and your strength.

Being connected to my culture helps me lead with authenticity. I don’t feel the need to blend in. I want to bring something of value from my background to every space I enter. It’s not about division; it’s about contribution and pride.

How do you help others feel proud of who they are and where they come from?

Through my social media pages, I became the connecting bridge between Romanians in the UK. I gained my people’s trust, and through me they understood that they can be united in a foreign country.

I create spaces where people can speak their language, share their stories, and feel celebrated instead of judged.

Whether through interviews or simply listening to someone’s journey, I remind others: you don’t have to change who you are to be valuable—you just have to show up as yourself.

Representation matters. And if I can be a mirror that reflects someone’s worth back to them, then I’m doing what I’m meant to.

What does getting your British citizenship mean to you?

It’s more than paperwork—it’s a powerful symbol. It meant a lot, I cried my eyes out when I got it, I felt fulfilled. 

It means I’ve contributed, I’ve been seen, and I’ve been accepted into the society I’ve worked hard to belong to.

It also comes with responsibility: to speak up, to support others in their journey, and to help build bridges between communities. I’m proud to be both Romanian and British. Both identities make me stronger.

Can you share a moment when you felt truly part of the community?

One moment that stands out is when I participated in a community event in London and people from all walks of life showed up—not just physically, but emotionally, and they showed me their gratitude and appreciation telling me that my story and every word inspire them. 

There was laughter, storytelling, networking, encouragement… and no one felt like a stranger. That day reminded me that community is not about numbers. It’s about connection.

It felt like home—not because of the place, but because of the people.

What made you want to give back and support others?

Because I remember what it felt like to need someone—to need guidance, hope, or just someone to say, “You’re not alone.” I was left alone, I was hungry, I was away from my family, I needed help, and nobody to go to. 

Once I found my strength, it felt natural to turn around and help the next person in line. Giving back isn’t a duty for me—it’s part of my healing, my joy, and my calling.

What do you want people to understand about immigrants?

That we are not here to take—we are here to build.

Immigrants are survivors, innovators, and contributors. Behind every accent is a story of courage.

We carry skills, dreams, and a hunger to succeed. But more than that, we carry a deep appreciation for opportunity.

If you listen, really listen, you’ll realise we are not so different. We all want dignity, safety, and a chance to belong.

What does success mean to you today?

Success, for me, is impact. It’s peace. It’s alignment. When you are so content with yourself and you don’t work just for money you work for your own happiness. When you love what you do, and you don’t need approval from others. 

It’s not about titles or numbers anymore—it’s about waking up with purpose and going to sleep knowing I made a difference.

It means being able to look in the mirror and say, “I’m proud of the person I’ve become, and I haven’t forgotten who I was.”

What advice would you give someone starting over in a new country?

Take your time. Don’t rush your becoming.

Learn, adapt, but don’t erase your story. Everything you’ve lived through until now is part of your strength.

Find your community, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

You are not starting from scratch—you’re starting from experience. And one day, you’ll inspire someone else the same way you’re now looking for direction. And stay truthful to yourself.