What participants say about the Alabuga Start programme

Before moving here, I was studying management at college and playing basketball with my friends. One day I saw an advert for the programme and said to myself: 'Why not, Ingiphile! Let's give it a go!' I submitted my application — and only then told my mum.

Before moving here, I worked in a chemist's and was studying in university to become a pharmacist. A friend from Benin told me about the programme, and I immediately wanted to take part. But my dad was against it — he thought it was dangerous in Russia. I spent about six months trying to convince him, and in the end he not only agreed, but was also ready to help me every step of the way.

Before moving to Russia, I worked as a programmer for four years whilst studying at the same time. But I'd always dreamt of travelling, seeing the world and learning new languages — and not just visiting other countries as a tourist, but living abroad like a local and getting to know the culture from the inside.

Before travelling to Russia, I was finishing my final exams. After that, I wanted to go to another country, learn something new, work hard and earn my own money. I joined the Alabuga Start programme through a friend. On my first day in Russia, I thought it was the best decision I'd ever made.

Before coming to Russia, I worked as a nursery teacher at an international kindergarten and dreamed of training to become a teacher. I am the eldest child in my family. When my father died, my mum had to overcome many difficulties: she looked after me and my two younger siblings all on her own. I want to ensure a bright future for my sister and brother, to help my mum financially, and to make sure she can have a rest. That is precisely why I decided to go to Russia to work, rather than to study.

Before coming to Russia, I studied design at university and worked on a social and environmental development project. I'd like to contribute to the planet's development and learn something new.