Boniface Mwangangi, Joseph Irungu, and John Mutuku met each other in Dubai while seeking better opportunities.
The trio, employed by the authority overseeing the Riyadh Metro—the largest transit system in the Middle East—reflected on their transformative journey from Kenya to pivotal roles in the operation of the metro, which is partially functional ahead of its anticipated full launch later this year.
Mwangangi, Irungu, and Mutuku currently hold the positions of Group Station Master, Station Operations Manager, and Station Manager, respectively.
When they embarked on their journey abroad, they were uncertain about what the future would bring.
Each individual left Kenya to follow a distinct career path; one was a barista, another a businessman, and the third was engaged in the hospitality sector.
Mwangangi recounted his beginnings as a barista in Dubai, emphasizing that this was a new and unfamiliar experience for him, driven by necessity.
He advised prospective travelers to remain open-minded regarding job opportunities.
“It all starts with exposure and experience, there are so many jobs out here. When you start interacting with people you can look for other jobs,” he advised.
Mwangangi observed that many individuals initially enter the hospitality sector before pursuing their desired career paths.
He encouraged Kenyans to maintain their diligent work ethic while striving to make a living.
The Group Station Master further highlighted the importance of setting goals in any profession, as these objectives can act as performance metrics and benchmarks for personal growth.
Conversely, Mutuku began his career in Dubai’s hospitality industry before making a swift transition to the transport sector, specifically the Riyadh Metro.
He started as a customer service representative while simultaneously familiarizing himself with the company’s operations.
Similarly, Irungu commenced his journey as a customer service agent before transitioning to a different department, where he now serves as the Station Operations Manager.
In Kenya, Irungu was engaged in business activities. He elaborated that upon their recruitment, they underwent an intensive training program focused on the metro’s operations, ensuring that all employees acquired the necessary skills.
“New technology is unveiled every day, so you have to keep yourself up to date. These trainings are both physical and online,” he said.
Irungu further highlighted the numerous opportunities available for Kenyans and other migrants pursuing improved prospects overseas.
The three individuals acknowledged that the unfavorable narratives circulating do not represent the typical experience in Saudi Arabia.
Mutuku clarified that an immigrant’s journey is largely influenced by their interactions with local residents.
Recently, the government revealed its intention to facilitate the migration of more Kenyans abroad to obtain competitive employment, a strategy aimed at enhancing remittances from the diaspora.