Each year numbers and numbers of Kenyans travel to diaspora either for education or to seek a better economic lifestyle. This is mainly due to lack or opportunities back home. Some leave the country through student visas, marriages while others get lucky to secure a green card.
No matter how they arrived in their adopted country, diasporans bring a distinct perspective to the discourse on Africa because they have experienced both worlds and can serve as a bridge in fostering greater understanding between the continent and their adopted country.
Today, US based Kenyan promoter MC Rayan The DJ shares nuggets on how to succeed while in diaspora.
He noted that many people back home in Kenya have a perception that those living abroad are rich and everything comes by easily which is wrong.
According to MC Rayan, in America everything you need to survive has a service fee, Shelter, transport, communication, food, gas, internet and many more. In order to counter for this, you need a job or a business to earn wages either employed or self-employed. (Basically a source of income)
Open minded
The Chapa hit-maker says that rule number one to succeed in America is to be open minded person.
“A lot of people come to diaspora and get caught up with what others who came before them did which limits their options and they end up settling while they could have been better at something else” said MC Rayan.
MC Rayan also noted that discipline is a major virtual to anyone looking forward to having a decent life when in diaspora.
"The circle you surround yourself with will mostly predict your path and ambitions. Discipline is a major virtual. A lot of people get caught up with the American lifestyle and forget about their families back home or what their goals were when they first came to the states. Don’t lose your focus, it’s not bad kupiga sherehe or to explore new staff but keep your priorities first” he advised.
Another pointer the US based Kenyan promoter gave is good communication skills.
“Good communication skills will take you places. A lot of people seem to be less outspoken due to their culture difference or accent but we all need to understand that America is a multicultural country with people from different backgrounds. Most opportunities here need good communication skills, for example on a job interview, school, working or even an entrepreneur.
Lastly and mainly is self-motivation and hard work.
“There’s a lot of opportunities, jobs and careers in Diaspora for every level. Your drive determines how far you go up the ladder. This will call for a lot of sacrifices especially on time so be ready for that.
“I would like emphasize on keeping your own people close. Don’t lose or detach with the people that connect you to your culture. The humble background you came from should be your everyday motivation. Help those who helped you and lastly look out for your family back home” he added. .
Brian Ngendo alias MC Rayan The DJ has worked with big names in the US and even in the African space. He has heavily invested in events promotion, deejaying and music in general, owing to the fact that he is also an astute musician.