Kenyan Woman in Germany Helps Africans Access Jobs and Education Abroad

Caroline Mwangi, a Kenyan expatriate based in Germany, is facilitating pathways to international education and employment for African professionals through her consultancy, AG-Career Hub. 

Founded in 2018, the firm connects Kenyan talent with global opportunities, especially in Germany, addressing a critical gap in support for migrants navigating complex bureaucratic and professional landscapes. Mwangi's journey began in the early 1990s when she arrived in Germany through an au pair programme, a common route for young Kenyans seeking cultural exchange. Although she initially hoped to attend university, economic conditions prevented her from enrolling. This setback, however, proved to be a catalyst.

Returning to Kenya, Mwangi defied expectations by entering the hospitality sector, initially taking entry-level positions despite holding a secretarial qualification. Her work at German-owned establishments in Nairobi deepened her connection to German culture while honing her work ethic. Simultaneously, she studied German, later teaching the language and venturing into entrepreneurship with a sandwich business, among other projects.

Mwangi's connection to Germany persisted. Encouraged by her former host family and improving economic prospects, she returned and enrolled at the University of Augsburg to study International Management. An internship at Bosch, the engineering and technology conglomerate, led to a seven-year position at a smaller company in Nuremberg. Subsequently, she transitioned to the German Ministry of Works within the finance department.

Despite her professional achievements, Mwangi recognised a lack of representation and support for Kenyans in German academia. Initially a Facebook group, her networking efforts evolved into a formal consultancy. The inquiries regarding study opportunities in Germany highlighted a clear demand for structured guidance. In response, she co-founded AG-Career Hub with Boniface Mwangi.

The consultancy focuses on academic and vocational opportunities in Germany, supporting students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate education, as well as nursing apprenticeships, a sector facing considerable labour shortages. To date, AG-Career Hub has facilitated the relocation of 25 nursing students, with further placements anticipated.

Starting a business in Germany presented unique challenges. Mwangi observed that Germany's workforce is predominantly salaried, with systems geared towards supporting employed individuals. The decision to become an entrepreneur required considerable courage. Nevertheless, AG-Career Hub has expanded, with plans to venture into information technology, connecting Kenyan professionals with remote work opportunities within German companies. 

While Mwangi has established a life in Germany with her family, her connection to Kenya remains strong. She misses her family, friends, and the food, particularly mahindi choma (grilled corn).