5 AM — This is the time Rose Mukina Kyalo starts her day.

She goes for a morning run, takes a cold shower, and then gets dressed and ready for her 6 a.m. shift, where she serves as a GardaWorld Security Guard at the European Union Diplomatic Compound based in Mogadishu, Somalia

Rose’s responsibilities include access control, customer care, searching personnel entering the compound, fire prevention, among other tasks. Although these may seem like typical security guard duties, Rose’s job is anything but!

Working in Somalia—Not for the faint of heart

“Somalia is a war-torn country with rampant terrorism. At least once a month, we hear explosions and gunshots.” Rose adds, “Being a woman in Mogadishu, terror doesn’t favor any gender or age.”  

For those considering a career in Mogadishu, Rose shares some advice, “It’s important to be aware of all security alerts and to be at the right place at the right time. GardaWorld has a professionally-trained team for risk assessment, but you must keep in mind that this is a high-risk environment. You have to respect the culture, religion and laws of the country.”

Rose is a proud member of the GardaWorld team and describes how the security industry has been rewarding for her. In particular, she enjoys meeting people from various backgrounds. Rose explains, “Sometimes, we are presented with challenges, and this gives me the opportunity to learn how to face them and solve problems quickly and professionally. I’m always learning new skills!”

Curious to learn more about working internationally at GardaWorld? Explore our unique career opportunities.