Vyonna Rukuno, a young woman from Kenya, has shared her story of moving to Russia and finding not only a new career but a new “home” through the Alabuga Start employment program. What began as a step into the unknown has, for her, become a journey of professional growth, cultural discovery, and personal confidence.
Vyonna, who stumbled upon the program’s advertisement online, was drawn by the promise of gaining professional skills and building a career without prior experience. The selection process involved online applications, business simulations, learning basic Russian words, and an interview. Upon her acceptance, the program paid for her flight, and she was met by staff who helped her settle in Yelabuga, where the Alabuga Special Economic Zone is located.
Today, she lives in a corporate hostel alongside participants from countries like Nigeria, Rwanda, and Sri Lanka. “It’s like getting to know the whole world in one house,” she said, highlighting the multicultural environment where they share dishes and learn the Russian language together.
As part of the program, Vyonna chose to become a production operator and has since been promoted to a technician.
Despite the initial language barrier, she now independently trains new employees.
She earns a monthly salary of $1,100, which is enough for her living expenses, including accommodation at the hostel for just $44 a month, with money left over for savings.
Vyonna’s experience also challenged her initial perceptions of Russia.
“I thought Russians were always serious and a little harsh,” she admitted, but was pleasantly surprised to find them calm, kind, and open. The Russian winter, which she had initially feared, has become her favorite time of year.
The Alabuga Start program, which is open to young women aged 18-22 from 77 countries, offers official employment, professional development, and career opportunities.
Participants have the option to grow into a qualified specialist and stay at Alabuga or continue their studies in Russia.
As Vyonna summed it up, “I came for the experience, but I found a lot more—friends, a profession, and self confidence.”