From Sales to Media: How Kerala Graduate Ibin Nayakam Strengthened His Career in the UAE

Dubai: Ibin Nayakam, a 25-year-old from Thiruvananthapuram, arrived in the UAE with aspirations of becoming a video editor. However, he found that his journey in the country provided him with invaluable lessons in resilience, humility, and the importance of seizing opportunities.

Nayakam, the son of a fisherman and a homemaker, is the first graduate in his family. After earning a degree in mass communications in Kerala, he sought opportunities abroad. A potential study opportunity in Germany fell through due to financial constraints, as he could not afford the required expenses.

He explained that while the course was free, the associated costs would have amounted to INR 10 lakhs, which was beyond his means. Consequently, he completed a master’s degree at Jammu University and subsequently worked as a media coordinator at Alliance Française.

After a year in that role, Nayakam faced a challenging situation. His family had taken a loan for his sister’s wedding, and he felt compelled to assist them financially. He stated that his growth in Kerala was stagnant, and he believed that moving abroad would be a viable solution.

Choosing Dubai

Nayakam had heard of many individuals from his home state who had successfully built lives in the UAE, which provided him with a sense of comfort. However, upon his arrival, he found the environment to be entirely new.

With his funds dwindling after two months of job searching, Nayakam decided to accept any available position. He approached a photo studio in Jebel Ali, where he worked temporarily, taking pictures for visa applications.

His background in editing software proved beneficial, allowing him to fill in for a staff member on leave. He then began attending walk-in interviews, eager to secure a job that would provide residency. Eventually, he accepted a sales position at Nesto hypermarket, earning a salary of AED 1,300.

Nayakam prioritized obtaining a visa over disclosing his educational background or previous work experience. He noted that returning home empty-handed was not an option, as it would have placed a significant financial burden on his family.

He remained in the sales role, working in the textile department, where he managed customer inquiries and handled merchandise. Despite the stigma attached to such positions, he approached the job with an open mind.

For several months, he focused on learning the sales process. He acknowledged the kindness of his colleagues, stating that while he held a master’s degree in communication, they were the true experts in their roles.

Despite facing a language barrier, he persevered, even watching Hindi web series during breaks to improve his communication skills. However, he felt that his media skills were diminishing.

He worked in sales for over a year and noticed a gradual decline in his editing and communication abilities. Observing the promotional materials around him, he recognized the need to upskill. During his free time, he engaged with online tutorials to enhance his video editing and graphic design skills.

Surrounded with Support

A transition from sales to back-office inventory assistance provided Nayakam with more time to refine his skills. He credited the support from his colleagues as a significant factor in his development. One manager, who shared a passion for cricket, became a source of encouragement.

Nayakam presented a video he had edited to this manager, expressing his desire for support in focusing on video editing. The manager recognized his potential and granted him a 10-day break to concentrate solely on improving his skills.

During this time, Nayakam developed a structured plan to enhance his abilities. Once he refined his work, he gained the confidence to share it with others and reached out to the HR department for opportunities in his field.

One of his initial projects involved creating a video about the company’s founder, K. P. Basheer, who also hailed from Kerala. This project garnered attention and led to a meeting with the HR department.

Nayakam described feeling nervous but was welcomed warmly, which marked a pivotal moment in his career. Recently, he began a new role as a media coordinator in the HR department, where he aims to highlight the stories of hardworking employees.

He expressed satisfaction in representing floor-level employees and enhancing their visibility through storytelling. He acknowledged the numerous managers and supervisors who played a crucial role in his return to video editing.

Hameed P. P., the HR head of Nesto Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for growth. He remarked that Nayakam’s journey exemplifies the potential that arises when determination and opportunity converge.

Finding Inspiration in Every Aisle

As a natural introvert, Nayakam credited the people around him for inspiring him to become more expressive. He noted that Dubai has provided him with an environment that fosters limitless possibilities.

He reflected on his initial desire to move to Europe but has since decided to remain in the UAE, appreciating the conducive atmosphere for achieving dreams. He believes that interacting with successful individuals in the country reinforces the notion that anything is attainable.

Whenever he felt demotivated while working on the sales floor, he would engage with supervisors or customers to learn about their journeys. He discovered that many shared similar stories of arriving in the UAE with little and achieving success.

Nayakam concluded by expressing gratitude for the support he has received, wishing for the success of those who have helped him along the way.

As reported by www.emirates247.com.

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Published on 2026-06-20 08:33:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk