Moving abroad can feel like either a daunting risk or an opportunity to unlock new horizons. For Eyerusalem Worku, a young woman from Ethiopia, her decision to relocate to Russia under the Alabuga Start employment programme has been a transformative journey, both personally and professionally.
Worku has spent the last year and a half working in Russia under the Alabuga Start initiative, which recruits young women from Africa, Latin America, South Asia, and Southeast Asia to build careers from the ground up in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone.
"The main reason I came here was career growth," she said, reflecting on her experience.
The programme, launched in 2022, offers young women opportunities to work and grow professionally while receiving training on the job, a concept increasingly common in a world where traditional higher education is no longer the sole path to success.
“I wanted to go abroad, discover new opportunities, and experience a different culture,” Worku said. “When I found Alabuga Start, I saw a chance to grow.”
She moved to Russia in 2023 to work in the catering sector. Starting as a kitchen worker with a monthly salary of $500, she gradually advanced to a barista role earning more than $1,200. In just a few months, she expects to be promoted to restaurant administrator.
"Becoming an administrator will be a challenge," she admitted. "It will push me out of my comfort zone as I manage people and operations—but I’m ready for it."
Family Concerns and Cultural Adjustment
Convincing her family to support her move to Russia was not easy. Safety concerns, cultural differences, and uncertainty initially caused hesitation. However, the structured approach of Alabuga Start helped alleviate their fears.
Worku conducted thorough research and maintained regular communication with the programme's HR specialists, sharing every detail with her parents until they felt comfortable.
"It was hard at first, but after seeing the transparency and support from the programme, they eventually accepted my decision and became supportive," she said.
Upon arrival, participants like Worku are offered Russian language classes and cultural immersion activities, including excursions and sports events. They live in secure, corporate housing with other international employees, where Face ID access ensures safety.
"I now live with girls from Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, and Kyrgyzstan. We all speak Russian—it’s become our common language," Worku said with a smile.
Inspired by her sister’s success, Worku’s younger sibling, Mahlet, also joined the Alabuga Start programme and began working in catering.
“After seeing what my sister achieved, my parents fully supported my choice,” Mahlet added.
Pathways to Success
Alabuga Start currently offers employment opportunities in seven fields, including catering, service and hospitality, road transport, production operations, installation works, finishing works, and logistics.
The programme is open to young women aged 18 to 22. According to the company, this age group was selected based on HR research indicating strong potential for long-term career development from entry-level positions.
During the two-year programme, participants undergo intensive training and are expected to rise quickly within their roles.
Upon completion, participants have several career options. They may remain in Alabuga and continue working in their chosen field. Others may apply for jobs at companies within the Special Economic Zone or enroll in Alabuga Polytech or other Russian educational institutions. Some may choose to return home and start businesses, using the work experience and skills they acquired.
By the programme’s conclusion, participants—typically no older than 25—are equipped with practical skills, career experience, and the freedom to pursue new opportunities globally.
"I want to stay and continue working in Alabuga after I finish the programme," Worku said. "This place has taught me a lot, especially how to work within a team, something I once found difficult."
She credits Alabuga Start with helping her overcome personal fears and unlocking professional growth.
Applications for the programme can be submitted through its official website.
