Rukayat Alabi, Founder and CEO of RKY Group of Companies, has become a transformative figure for immigrants seeking to thrive in global job markets. Through her work, she has helped countless individuals overcome barriers and secure meaningful careers.
In this candid interview, Rukayat opens up about her personal journey, the challenges she faced, and the immense impact of her work on empowering immigrants to break through the limitations and realize their full potential in competitive job markets. Her story is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of supporting others on their career journeys.
CA: What inspired you to start RKY Careers?
Rukayat: My personal journey as an immigrant was the driving force. When I relocated to the UK, I faced the usual struggles—finding my footing in a new environment and navigating the job market. Those experiences made me realize the challenges immigrants face, especially the myths about them settling for menial jobs due to a lack of confidence or exposure to opportunities. I wanted to change that narrative, and that’s how RKY Careers began.
CA: What sets RKY Careers apart from other career support platforms?
Rukayat: We don’t just help people find jobs; we help them build sustainable careers. Our approach is tailored, addressing individual needs, from CV optimization to interview preparation and tech career transitions. Our new initiative, Apply Buddy, simplifies the job application process for professionals, making it less stressful and more effective.
CA: RKY Careers recently expanded into North America. How significant is this step for you?
Rukayat: It’s a huge milestone. Expanding to Canada and the United States allows us to support even more professionals globally. Immigrants often face similar challenges no matter where they move, and I’m excited to bring our expertise to help them transition seamlessly into their careers.
CA: Your company hosted the “Limitless Without Borders” event. What was the goal of this initiative?
Rukayat: The event was about connecting professionals and students with opportunities in the tech industry. It’s a platform for networking, learning, and building confidence. Attendees left feeling empowered to take the next big step in their careers.
CA: You’ve achieved numerous milestones. Which stands out the most to you?
Rukayat: Moving RKY Careers from a home office to Canary Wharf was a defining moment in our journey. This transition to one of the world’s most prestigious financial hubs is not just a physical move; it’s a symbol of how far we’ve come. Being in this vibrant and influential business district allows us to tap into new opportunities and gives us the chance to deliver even greater value to our clients.
It positions us right in the heart of the action, where we can engage with key industry players, access global opportunities, and expand our network, ultimately empowering our clients to achieve even greater success.
CA: Recently, your company launched ‘Apply Buddy’. What does this mean and how does this help job seekers?
Rukayat: Apply Buddy is designed to take the stress out of job hunting. We provide tailored packages that cover everything from perfecting your CV to preparing you for interviews. It’s all about simplifying the process and helping job seekers focus on what matters most—landing the job they truly deserve. We’re here to make job applications less overwhelming and more successful.
CA: What motivates you to keep pushing boundaries?
Rukayat: The impact we’ve made and the success stories of our clients keep me going. Seeing immigrants break barriers and thrive in careers they once thought were out of reach is incredibly rewarding.
CA: What’s your long-term vision for RKY Group?
Rukayat: I want to see more Africans abroad thriving in professional roles, transitioning into rewarding careers, and living fulfilling lives. My dream is to build a global community where immigrants feel supported and empowered to excel without limitations.
CA: What advice do you have for immigrants navigating international job markets?
Rukayat: Equip yourself with globally relevant, in-demand skills. Don’t be discouraged by initial rejections. Stay persistent, confident, and open to growth. Never settle for less. Excellence should be your standard, no matter where you are.
Rukayat Alabi’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and a commitment to uplifting others. Through RKY Group, she continues to redefine career support for immigrants, proving that success truly knows no borders.
