Kenyan TikToker Malcom Shares How He Became a Truck Driver in the US

A popular Kenyan content creator based in the United States has opened up about his tough but inspiring journey from the streets of Kayole to building a better life abroad.

Malcom, who works as a truck driver while also creating content on TikTok, has become a familiar face among Kenyans both at home and in the diaspora. He is known for sharing advice on migration, trending topics, and real-life experiences abroad.

Life After High School

Malcom revealed that his journey was not easy at all. After finishing high school in 2013, he stayed with his parents in Kayole, Nairobi. Like many young Kenyans, he faced pressure from family to find a job and support the household.

At that time, an opportunity came when Qatar Airways announced job openings in Kenya. Despite not having experience in hospitality, Malcom decided to apply.

During the interview, he explained that he wanted the job to support his parents. According to him, that honest answer played a big role in helping him get hired.

He started working as a laundry attendant, earning between KSh 30,000 and KSh 40,000 per month.

Exposure Abroad Changed His Mind

While working in Qatar, Malcom experienced a completely different lifestyle. Though adapting to a new culture was not easy, the job came with several benefits, including discounted and fully paid flight tickets.

He used those opportunities to travel to countries like Malaysia and Singapore. These experiences opened his eyes and changed his perspective on life.

Malcom says that is when he made a bold decision — he no longer wanted to live in Kenya permanently.

Starting From Scratch in Kenya

After about one year and four months, he quit his job in Qatar and returned to Kenya. Back home, he decided to try carpentry, starting a business with no prior experience.

His first job did not go well, and the client was disappointed with his work. However, he did not give up. He continued learning and improving his skills until he was able to produce quality furniture.

Even as his business grew, his dream of living abroad remained strong.

Opportunity Through Connections

Malcom’s breakthrough came when he met a friend in Kayole who worked with foreign tourists. Through this connection, he met American volunteers from the Peace Corps.

They introduced him to a volunteering programme in Rwanda, where he managed to secure a position as an English tutor.

He spent one year there, taking part in community work and building strong relationships with the programme leaders. During this time, he also travelled to countries like Mozambique, Zambia, and Angola.

How He Finally Moved to the US

In 2019, as the programme came to an end, most volunteers returned to the United States. Malcom saw this as his chance.

He requested a recommendation letter and an invitation from the programme director. Using these documents, he applied for a US visa and successfully passed the interview.

He then travelled to Detroit, Michigan, planning to stay for only two weeks. However, after experiencing life in the US, he decided to look for ways to stay longer and build a future there.

Building a Life in America

Malcom started by volunteering in churches, where he shared his story and goals. Through these connections, he received support, legal advice, and eventually secured his first job.

Although his initial stay expired, he continued learning about the US immigration system with the help of lawyers and community members.

With time, he was able to meet the requirements and successfully obtained permanent residency.

Life Today

Today, Malcom works as a truck driver in the US, a job that pays well and allows him to live comfortably. He also continues creating content on TikTok and runs side hustles.

Back in Kenya, his carpentry business is still active and doing well.

Advice to Kenyans Planning to Move Abroad

Malcom advises Kenyans who want to relocate to understand immigration laws before making any move.

He noted that opportunities in countries like the US are becoming more focused on skilled professionals, especially in fields like technology and innovation.

He also encouraged people to contribute positively to society, as it increases the chances of getting long-term opportunities abroad.