Rukayat Alabi: The Visionary Turning Barriers into Bridges for Immigrants in Career & Business
- King
- Jun 13, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 14, 2025
When Rukayat Alabi arrived in the UK with over a decade of experience in banking, finance, and tech, she wasn’t met with the career progression she expected. Instead, she faced rejection, the need to start over, and the harsh realities many immigrants know too well. But rather than let those challenges define her, she turned them into fuel — building platforms that now empower thousands globally.
“My journey wasn’t just about finding success for myself. It became about building bridges so others wouldn’t have to navigate the same obstacles blindly.”
Creating Solutions from Lived Experience
Rukayat’s firsthand experiences inspired the creation of RKY Careers, a platform supporting professionals — especially immigrants and underrepresented groups — with tech skills training, work experience, and community. The impact? Over 5,000 professionals transitioned into tech roles.
But she didn’t stop there. Realising that many qualified professionals remained stuck in survival jobs with little time or mental space for job hunting, she launched Apply Buddy, an AI-powered solution that streamlines CV optimisation and job applications. It’s not just a tool — it’s a time-saver, confidence booster, and opportunity generator.
“Every platform I’ve built is a response to a real, lived challenge. The goal is always to transform barriers into bridges.”
Scaling Access Through Community and Technology
What makes RKY Careers and Apply Buddy so impactful is their focus on community, mentorship, and personalisation. With a reach of over 100,000 individuals across the UK, US, Canada, and Africa, Rukayat’s ecosystem isn’t just about skills — it’s about connection.
Her latest initiative, the £20,000 Scholarship Grant 2.0, is a testament to that ethos. Designed to uplift 100 underrepresented individuals — from caregivers and mums to newly arrived immigrants — the program provides access to tech boot camps, mentorship, and career support.
“We’re not just training people — we’re restoring confidence and building a more inclusive tech talent pipeline.”
Redefining Success and Leadership as a Woman in Tech
Transitioning from the corporate world to entrepreneurship required massive mindset shifts. Rukayat had to abandon perfectionism, embrace uncertainty, and define success in terms of impact rather than job titles.
As a mother of two, she’s also a strong advocate for women and caregivers. Through tailored scholarships and flexible training, she’s helping women re-enter the workforce with dignity and support — not shame.
“Mothers aren’t a risk — they’re assets. We need systems that reflect that truth.”
Her work has earned recognition from Forbes, The Guardian, and more — but she remains grounded in the mission.
“Accolades are great, but they come with responsibility. My focus is on the lives we change, not the spotlight.”
Building Entrepreneurial Ecosystems for Immigrant Founders
Rukayat knows that many immigrant founders bring incredible ideas and work ethic, but lack access, guidance, or cultural context. That’s why she created the Immigrant Founders Network, now transitioning into the RKY Business Hub — a support system offering expert coaching, accountability, and community.
“I bootstrapped my way to a seven-figure business. I know how lonely and confusing it can be. That’s why I built a place where immigrant entrepreneurs can feel seen, supported, and set up to win.”
Storytelling as a Catalyst for Change
Through initiatives like Limitless Without Borders and the Limitless and Thriving Podcast, Rukayat amplifies voices that are often overlooked — sharing real stories of resilience, reinvention, and immigrant brilliance.
“Storytelling reminds us we’re not alone. It challenges stereotypes and helps others believe, ‘If they did it, so can I.’ That’s the power of shared experience.”
Ultimately, Rukayat’s legacy is rooted in transformation. She’s not just building businesses — she’s building belief.
“I want African professionals in the diaspora to see themselves as builders and leaders — not outsiders. My hope is that future generations will say, ‘Because of these platforms, we saw what was possible — and we stepped into it.’”
Explore RKY Careers & Apply Buddy
Listen to the Limitless and Thriving Podcast
Join the RKY Business Hub
At Light of Africa, we’re proud to spotlight people like Ademola Abass—founders who don’t just build apps, but build bridges for communities to grow, connect, and thrive.
Comments