Meet Abdullahi Yakubu

Today we’d like to introduce you to Abdullahi Yakubu. 

Hi Abdullahi, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I am a professional in the event industry and a former business owner. I host events in both Russian and English languages. 

Indeed, I have a story behind that… 

Originally, I hail from Nigeria (North) and relocated to Russia to study in 2007. 

It was not easy to learn the language or even blend in, but somehow, I did, with hard work and determination, I guess everything is possible. 

Before I left Nigeria for Russia, I had just completed my associate’s degree in law and wanted to go international, and believe me Russia was not on my list, but that is where I ended up because I had a low budget. 

After completing my Russian language and orientation program (one year), I enrolled for a bachelor’s degree in Economics and then a master’s degree in Economics. And yes, I studied in Russian language, which was fun. 

During my years of study, I worked so as to pay my tuition and living expenses. 

That was when my talent to sing, and talk came in handy. 

In 2010, I was already on local and national TV shows, Hosting and organizing events all around Russia and Europe. To be honest, I love what I do and do it with passion. I understand that my participation, in any event, is an opportunity to bring light, fun, and class into the lives of people. To light up their events and make that day a memorable one. 

I have hosted more than 500 events and performed thousands of times. 

I gradually became a soloist in local orchestra bands and started writing my own music. 

Looking back at my childhood, I wanted to work and build a carrier in the cooperative business world (banking). After graduation, I applied to different banks in Russia but was turned down. So, I did what every sensible person will do, I identified myself as an educated SHOWMAN and made my talent, my profession. 

Yes, I have experience in the corporate world, (Owned my own business for travel abroad and was a motivational speaker and English teacher in different companies), but my passion for what I do best still stands out. EVENT HOSTING. 

I recently relocated to the United States, (with my wife and three lovely kids) starting life fresh, as they say, a “new page”, I host events now in the states for both Russian and English-speaking clients and travel around the states too. 

I want to explore the Event industry in America (as an Event host) and am ready to host your events, especially in Russian language. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Of course, yes, it has not been a bed of roses, I had to fight through fear and lack of self-confidence. At first, I thought the problem was not within, though it was an external obstacle, it was about believing in myself and that reflects the way people see you. 

I also had a language barrier and complex issues, that my Russian language was not good enough and that I did not fit in the society, but as I found out, these were just my assumptions. One other obstacle was that I did not identify myself for who I AM. A Show-man. I was living a life of expectation and fantasy, expecting what was unknown and never accepting me. I thought I needed to be in the cooperate business, to materialize my childhood dream, but little did I know, that life tabled a better option. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I host events in both Russian and English languages and sing in Russian, English, Tartar, and Udmurt languages. 

As you know, being a host is not just about talking, is about engaging the audience. 

I have hosted events with guests within the range of 50 to 1,000 people. 

I am known for my practical and psychological approach to people, studying and reading their behaviors, sometimes I hear my client say, “How did you know that was what I wanted to ask for, or that was exactly what I wanted to say” 

This is not only a result of experience, but also a result of passion, understanding, and 100% involvement in the whole process. 

Most of my clients know, that it’s not about the pay (don’t get me wrong, loved being paid for my services), it’s beyond that. I love to see the satisfied smiles of my clients and their guests. It is about bringing positivity and creating a celebrative atmosphere in every event. 

My clients find me unique because they believe I live a decent life and am a family man (which is not common among artists. 

My Russian-speaking clients love it that I understand the Slavic culture, and language and how they love their events done. From music to decoration. I know it in and out. 

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I can’t think of anyone else than my wife. She encourages me and gladly keeps the family together when am away. She trusts me and believes in me even when I have doubts. 

She helped me identify and believe in myself. 

My father In-law is another good influencer. He is so proud of my achievements and a big fan of mine. 

I have friends who gave men the opportunity to try me out on big scenes and entrusted me to host events before serious congregations like state governors, senators, and big-name business personnel in Russia. 

That is where the whole journey started. 

Pricing:

• For private $1000 Events host up to 5 hours. Depending on travel distance
• $1500 Event host + vocal up to 5 hours Depending on travel distance

Contact Info:

• Website: www.yakubu.ru
• Instagram: blackmombazo
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abdulmcnc