encore travel jobs

WELCOME TO EXCEPTIONAL BUSINESS TRAVEL MANAGEMENT

An experienced team to help you navigate these uncertain times and get your travel program better and, above all, safer., optimize travel spend and enjoy top quality service.

Encore combines 30+ years of experience in travel program management with an innovative attitude.

Mixing tech and top consultants to develop the ultimate travel program management services. From online booking to compliance audits and automated reconciliation, you benefit from the best team and the best technological tool.

What Is A Travel Program?

A complete travel program gives you top quality service, insights and control over your travel spend and peace of mind that everything is running smoothly.

Cost Optimization

Traveller’s Experience

Governance and Compliance

Is your travel program doing everything it can for you?

Take control of your spending

Manage risk with ease

Improve performance

Enjoy top quality service

About Encore

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Encore is the leader in the corporate travel industry.

Our best-in-class technological tools and the quality of our multidisciplinary team have earned us the highest Net Promoter Score in the entire industry.

The world's most loved travel partner.

We provide highly personalized business travel services combined with innovative travel spend reduction technology.

Transform your business travel

Take control of your spending.

Get the best prices. Reduce waste. Save money.

Manage risk with ease

Know exactly where your highest risks lie. And how to reduce it.

Improve performance

Better travel = happier employees = better work performance.

Enjoy true peace of mind

Our white-glove, VIP services handle every aspect of your travel.

One travel dashboard to rule them all.

Know exactly how your team is travelling and find opportunities to save money.

Concierge-level business travel experience.

From setting up your program until you unpack at home, our corporate travel experts never leave your side.

Tailored corporate travel program.

We understand that corporate travel programs aren’t one-size-fits-all; we’ll make sure that yours is a reflection of your values and culture.

Powerful travel spend analysis.

Where you spend your money shouldn’t be a mystery. Our tools help you make better business decisions with your travel data.

Some of our treasured clients

20+ years of rock solid customer relationships.

Carefully curated corporate travel for businesses as unique as yours.

“The personalized service I receive is above and beyond and the accuracy level of the individuals that work at Encore is beyond excellent. It always feels as if you have a partner .”

Anthony Spina

“Encore’s service has been fantastic from beginning to end. They have managed our contracts with airlines, hotels, and car rental companies ensuring we are always getting the best price possible , even through COVID when our trips were limited.”

Jennifer Colasanti

“Thanks to Encore, they pride themselves on top notch, white glove service for every level of travelers, Exec or not. Their online booking portal, Zii, is incredibly easy to navigate.”

Stefanie Stamadianos

“Encore’s deep involvement and understanding of our unique business needs meant that our travellers felt their voices were heard and overall satisfaction went up. Encore makes it happen, when it counts the most.”

Robert Wiebe

We only work with clients that we can confidently provide an outstanding experience to..

Our dedication to taking care of people and constantly innovating has made us “ the world’s most loved travel partner ” for over 30 years.

Big, but not TOO big.

One of North America’s largest privately owned corporate travel management companies.

Unbeatable customer satisfaction.

Industry-leading NPS (net promoter score) of 97.

Once you try it, you can't go back.

Encore combines 35+ years of experience in travel program management with an innovative attitude.

Copyright 2024 Encore Corporate Travel powered by Zii. All Rights Reserved.

• Traveler Services
• Program Mangement
• Zii Travel Platform
• Monique's Picks

Connect with Us

• USA | Canada | LATAM | UK

Encore’s Production team is seeking Audio, Video, Lighting & Projection Specialists across major markets. Relocation assistance PLUS a sign-on bonus of $1500!  US positions only. *Restrictions apply!

Search “ Technical Specialist ” below to apply. Questions? Email the Recruitment Team at [email protected] .

Visit Encore Corporate Site

• Deutsch German
• English English
• Español Spanish
• Français French

Enter Keyword

Enter city, state or zip code

RADIUS 5 miles 15 miles 25 miles 35 miles 50 miles Radius

We see your future as our greatest event.

Working at Encore

Since 1937, Encore has been connecting and inspiring people around the globe with impactful meeting and event experiences. Working closely with our customers, Encore’s talented professionals deliver strategic planning, creative production, advanced technology and staging services for meetings and events of all sizes – always with an unwavering focus on our customers.

What’s it like to be a part of the Encore team? When you’re helping create unique event solutions for customers around the world, each day is filled with new and exciting challenges. It could be anything from full-production product launches to presidential speeches to annual corporate conventions. And every step of the way, you’re surrounded by talented people who have your back – artistic visionaries, meticulous managers and technical wizards. The opportunities here – and the cutting-edge technology at your fingertips – make going to work inspiring.

Explore all of the ways that we focus on you.

We’ve worked hard to create a company and a culture that’s truly in support of our people, their careers and their life. One that’s filled with opportunities to grow, advance and thrive. We call it our focus on you. And it makes all the difference. Discover how our entire organization is invested in your future and your success. Follow #EncoreFocusOnYou on social media.

Building World-Class Talent

We identify the best talent, evaluate them against success factors, and create positive onboarding experiences to connect with the organization.

Work that Matters

Our global footprint provides team members the opportunities to work on a variety of events that inspire and make a difference.

Community and Industry Involvement

We encourage and support team member involvement at the local level - both with professional organizations/associations that support our industry and in the communities in which we operate.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are a Pillar

Our global DE&I strategy supports equity and inclusion throughout the team member experience, and advocates for equally represented groups.

Live the Values

Our core values drive behavior at all levels in the organization and guide the behaviors of all team members, including all people-related initiatives and programs.

Celebrate Success

Team members can recognize each other for day-to-day achievements and key work anniversaries through our CenterStage rewards platform.

Experience Encore University

Our learning platform provides access to learning academies that lead to new skills, certifications and career development.

Develop as a Leader

Every team member has the opportunity to grow their leadership skills through our leadership academy and several leadership development programs.

Demonstrate Your Capabilities

We evaluate team members against proven success measures and then use the information we collect to select team members for promotions, succession, special projects and participation in development programs.

Your Well-Being Matters

We create an environment that values the well-being of our team members through several wellness programs, health insurance options and our MeetSAFE™ guidelines.

Your Financial Security Matters

We build a meritocracy utilizing several compensation and incentive programs where our best and most successful team members are rewarded for their dedication and results.

Your Life Outside Matters

We understand the importance of work-life balance whether it is providing time off to celebrate meaningful holidays, planning for retirement or spending time at home. We have programs and benefits that support our team members beyond their work schedule.

Take your career anywhere in the world.

Our global footprint, combined with the diverse talents of our people around the world, allows us to produce inspiring events. Approximately 1.7 million in-person, virtual and hybrid events are produced annually. Join our growing global team and explore opportunities in more than 20 countries across North America, Europe, United Arab Emirates, Australia and Asia. Discover why we’re a leading global provider of event production services and help us turn ordinary meetings into extraordinary experiences.

Expand your potential.

At Encore we invest in our team with unmatched training and career development within functions such as Creative Services, Sales, Rigging, IT, Finance, Marketing, HR, Product Management and more. No matter where you begin at Encore, you’ll find so many ways to grow personally and professionally, advancing your career.

Encore helped me understand how important it is for me to be the right fit for the team, just as much as the team should fit me. It’s not only about who you work with every day, but also the company as a whole.

Sales Manager

Career Areas

Early Career Development Programs

Encore is always looking for talented people who are passionate about creating memorable experiences that inspire change. Find out how you can jump-start your career in our dynamic industry.

Encore Careers

Sign Up For Job Alerts

Stay connected and receive the latest career opportunities at Encore.

Email Address

Resume Upload By uploading your resume, you are not submitting an application for employment. Remove

Confirm Email

By submitting this form, you are agreeing to our privacy agreement .

You’ll find some of the best rewards in the industry – from comprehensive insurance options and generous PTO to a company-matching 401(k).

• Encore Canada
• Encore Global
• Encore Mexico
• Encore EMEA
• Encore ANZPAC
• Encore ASIA
• Hargrove Inc
• Conference Systems

Join Our Team – Jobs and Careers

At  Encore , you'll join a team that delivers innovative event solutions, both small and large. Learn about  careers  at  Encore  and view open  jobs . So come with your passion, creativity, and vision. We’ll give you all the support and training you need. Join an inclusive and welcoming team that values unique perspectives and experiences.

Encore Canada consists of over 1,500 team members across Canada, with headquarters located in Toronto, Ontario.

Our global footprint, combined with the diverse talents of our people around the world, allows us to produce inspiring events. Approximately 1.7 million in-person, virtual and hybrid events are produced annually. Join our growing Canadian team and explore opportunities in more than 20 countries across North America, Europe, United Arab Emirates, Australia and Asia. Discover why we’re a leading provider of event production services in Canada and help us turn ordinary meetings into extraordinary experiences. 

Click on the green pins for job openings!

We are hiring. Join an inclusive and welcoming team that values unique perspectives and experiences. We currently have over 200 event-related career opportunities in Canada – explore a career in corporate events, esports, 3D design, animation, and more.

Date: November 16, 2022 01:00 PM – 2:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Explore current opportunities in Canada

Featured positions, audio visual technician, creative producer, event project manager.

We strive to create workplaces that reflect the communities in which we work and live, and where every individual has a full sense of belonging. By doing so, we fuel our innovation, collaboration, expertise, and excellence, and connect more closely to our customers and the communities we serve.

We believe a diverse and inclusive workforce is the catalyst for all progress. We encourage team members to share unique experiences and perspectives in support of better understanding, open dialogue, and enacting positive change.

Since 1937, Encore has been connecting and inspiring people around the globe with impactful meeting and event experiences. Working closely with our customers, Encore’s talented professionals deliver strategic planning, creative production, advanced technology, and staging services for meetings and events of all sizes – always with an unwavering focus on our customers.

Focus On You!

Encore is a great place to work, where the focus is on you. A place where you can connect to your work and customers; where you are valued for who you are; and where you are given the opportunity and tools to grow and thrive throughout your career.

We currently have over 200 event-related career opportunities in Canada – Join this virtual job fair to explore a career in corporate events, esports, 3D design, animation, and more.

Encore University

Encore University is your one-stop shop for all learning activities and resources. At Encore we focus on our team members’ careers using career pathing, skill set matrices, role-based development, training plans and certifications. We are committed to helping all team members in their training from lighting design to audio mastering, our vast digital learning platform has over 50,000 online learning activities available to all team members, helping them on their career journey.

Join our Team

We are hiring. Join an inclusive and welcoming team that values unique perspectives and experiences. We currently have over 200 event-related career opportunities in Canada – Join this virtual job fair to explore a career in corporate events, Esports, 3D design, animation, and more.

Date: November 16, 2022 01:00 PM – 2:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada

Wealth of Geeks

9 Jobs That Can Be Done While Traveling

Posted: December 24, 2023 | Last updated: December 24, 2023

In a world of high-speed living and remote jobs, earning money anywhere is possible. Travel isn’t cheap. It costs a lot of money, and working in an office does not leave much time for leisure. If you are on vacation and have seen all there is to be seen, you may look for something else to pass the time.

Remote jobs don’t have to be boring. In fact, many of them are great options for earning free or discounted travel. You just have to know how to choose which of these travel jobs is right for you.

1. Blogging

Blogging while traveling is a great way to earn some money. Your office is wherever your laptop is, so you are never tied down to one place. This can help you travel the world with just a laptop and a bit of data, which you can always find in local cafes or restaurants . It’s even better if you do travel writing, so you can combine firsthand experience with creative writing that helps others plan their travels.

2. Vlogging

Similar to blogging, video blogging, also called “ vlogging ,” is a visual form of content. You can write blogs for your website but also work as a freelancer for other people’s websites. When it comes to vlogging, however, people usually vlog for their own channels. It takes more time to succeed but can also be more rewarding monetarily. All you need is a smartphone with a nice camera, or if you want to be fancy, a laptop with some video editing software like Adobe PremierePro or DaVinci Resolve.

3. Video Commercials

This one is both fun and rewarding. If you have a smartphone with a decent camera and invest in an excellent DJI drone, you can earn some nice money on your travels. Combine this with an investment in a decent laptop and a video editing course, and you have a recipe for success. When I was on vacation in Corfu , I discovered an opportunity with their beautiful beachfront Tavernas. I packed my drone, visited a few of them on foot, and offered them my services. I scored two jobs for filming a video ad and one logo redesign job, which made me a nice profit for less than a full day of work.

4. Singing and Playing an Instrument

Singing or playing an instrument is another excellent way to earn some surprisingly good money. If you are a good singer and can play an instrument, you can always play in the city center or other popular spots. Many great talents have been discovered performing in public this way. You can also offer your skills to local restaurants or lounges if they are in need of live music or other entertainment.

5. Haircuts for Tips

If you know how to cut hair, another great way to earn money is to offer free haircuts and keep profits from their tips if they decide to give you one. You only need hair clippers for this one, so you can be flexible and earn well in countries where haircuts are expensive. Pro tip : You can combine this with vlogging and use this as your content on your vlog to increase exposure.

6. Exposure for Businesses

This travel job is for those with a well-developed online business. If you already have a travel blog , you can always ask restaurant owners, bar owners, hotels, and others who provide services in tourism if they would like to collaborate on a promotion on your website. The business will get exposure to your audience, and you can negotiate payment or exchanges for that promotion, like a one-night hotel stay or a free meal.

7. Bartending

A good barista is always a much-needed part of the crew. If you know how to mix drinks or make a killer espresso, you can always offer your services to nightclubs or cafes and earn a decent wage, plus tips.

8. Temporary Tattoos or Hair Styling

Unlike the classic tattoo industry, where laws and regulations can tie up employment approval, temporary tattoos can be done anytime, anywhere, and do not fall under any laws and regulations. There is a low risk of infection with temporary tattoos or paints, unlike classic tattoos that are created by piercing the skin. Hair braiding or wrapping is popular at beach destinations and can also be done anytime, anywhere.

9. Working on a Cruise Ship

Working on a cruise ship is more permanent, but it still fits within the scope of travel jobs. There are numerous jobs that you can do on a cruise ship, and each of those offers some nice wages. Understandably, a captain makes much more than a cabin steward, but all employees receive benefits and gratuity. You can use the time between shifts to discover beautiful cities wherever you stop. 

Read More From Wealth of Geeks

• Best Countries To Live In Across the World

12 Record-Breaking Roller Coasters Across the Globe

More for You

NATO Aircraft Activated After Waves of Russian Strikes

Average US annual salary by age revealed – see how you compare

Do I have to pay off my spouse's debts when they die? Here's what you're responsible for and what you aren't after a loved one's death

2024’s Canceled Shows, for Your Final Consideration

7 Ways People Destroy the Value of Their Homes, According to a Real Estate Agent

A woman said her tattoos got her rejected for a job, but experts say personality is far more important

I Was Told My Father Was A 'Deadbeat.' After He Died, I Found Out Everything I Knew About Him Was Wrong.

Barack Obama shares his No. 1 piece of advice for his own daughters: Don't let your hunger for success ruin your happiness

Scientists have discovered the maximum age a human can live to

17 Phrases Older People Use That No One Else Gets

The most expensive state to live in isn't California or New York, based on data. Here are the top 10.

Man loses 450 pounds after reaching 'rock bottom.' 1 key diet change helped

I’m a Bank Teller: 3 Times You Should Never Ask For $100 Bills at the Bank

I’m a psychologist and mom—here are 3 phrases I wish more parents would say to their kids

Liz Cheney's Message to Supreme Court After Donald Trump Hearing

6 Medications You Should Never Mix With Dairy

China could force Putin to leave Ukraine in 'major shockwave to Moscow'

Marriage counsellor shares one sign your relationship is really over

Baking Soda Makes a Great DIY Weed Killer—Here's How to Use It

Here is the average credit score at every age in the U.S.—see how yours stacks up

More From Forbes

10 perfect jobs for people who love to travel.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

With many jobs requiring frequent travel, some professionals purposely seek out these opportunities ... [+] that afford them the chance to see the world.

My parents and extended family were almost all teachers and educators. With two months of summer off from work, along with plenty of vacation days, they had the privilege of enjoying both their work and traveling around the world.

They were bitten by the wanderlust bug. At family events, everyone would share their most recent exciting trip. My family seamlessly blended their love of travel, exploring new and different sites, with their occupation of teaching elementary, middle and high school students.

Is Frequent Traveling Compatible With Your Lifestyle?

With many jobs requiring frequent travel, some professionals purposely seek out these opportunities that afford them the chance to see the world. During the job search process, it is critical for professionals to consider how much travel is required to perform a specific role successfully. By carefully evaluating the travel requirements, candidates can make informed decisions about jobs that are a compatible fit for their circumstances, preferences and career aspirations.

Extensive travel can disrupt personal and family life, making it challenging to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Professionals with caregiving obligations may find frequent travel particularly burdensome or impossible.

However, for those who have wanderlust, a career that offers the opportunity to get paid to explore new places may be a dream come true. In these roles, accommodations and travel expenses are often covered, while you get to immerse yourself in different cultures.

Samsung Is Giving Away A Free Galaxy S24 In A New Promotion

Google makes a new sale offer to pixel 8 buyers, the best reading glasses plus expert tips from an ophthalmologist, jobs for travel lovers.

If you have been bitten by the travel bug, here are 10 occupations you should consider that will earn you a paycheck for traveling.

Traveling for work and meeting new people can strengthen your professional network and lead to potential clients and customers. Moreover, demonstrating that you can adapt to new environments can be a valuable soft skill in your career.

1. Flight Attendant

Average Base Salary: $39,077

Job Summary: A flight attendant is a trained individual who ensures the safety and comfort of passengers on an aircraft. They provide customer service, conduct safety demonstrations and respond to emergencies during flights.

Qualifications: Applicants are usually required to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Successful completion of an airline-specific training program or orientation is necessary. This training is provided by the airline and covers aspects such as safety procedures, emergency protocols and customer service. Flight attendants must also be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration to work on each type of aircraft they serve on.

2. Airline Pilot

Average Base Salary: $108,544

Job Summary: An airline pilot is a professional responsible for flying and navigating airplanes, helicopters and other aircraft. Their duties include conducting pre-flight checks, developing flight plans, ensuring the safety and integrity of the aircraft and maintaining communication with the flight crew and air traffic controllers.

Qualifications: Airline pilots typically need a bachelor's degree, experience as a commercial or military pilot and must meet FAA requirements, including completing 250 flight hours with a pilot ground school. After you have passed your written ground school test and logged your hours, you will need to pass a check-ride with the FAA.

3. Management Consultant

Average Base Salary: $92,345

Job Summary: Management consultants work closely with domestic or international clients to provide business solutions to organizational issues involving maximizing business performance, business processes and revenue streams. A management consultant can offer expertise in a range of fields, such as business management, marketing, business strategy, supply chain and employee productivity.

Qualifications: Most employers require applicants to have completed, at minimum, a bachelor's degree in a business-related field, such as business administration, economics or finance.

Average Base Salary: $77,965

Job Summary: An auditor examines an organization's records, accounts and finances to ensure accuracy and compliance, as well as identify and mitigate risks. There are several disciplines within auditing, including financial; environmental, health and safety; external; internal; forensic and information technology. Because auditors attend frequent client meetings, they travel extensively to company sites, including internationally.

Qualifications: Similar to the education path of an accountant, aspiring auditors are required to hold a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field, like finance or business.

5. Tour Guide

Average Base Salary: $35,290

Job Summary: A tour guide leads visitors through historical sites, museums, geographic destinations or outdoor excursions, extolling relevant cultural, historical and practical knowledge.

Qualifications: Most tour guide jobs require at least the completion of a high school diploma, while some employers desire a four-year degree to lead a museum tour. Additionally, some states require you to obtain a tour guide license.

6. Pharmaceutical Sales Representative

Average Base Salary: $75,806

Job Summary: A pharmaceutical sales representative travels to different locations to sell pharmaceutical products and devices to healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses.

Qualifications: To become a pharmaceutical sales representative, most employers require at least a high school diploma or GED. Your qualifications will lie in your ability to build relationships and be persuasive.

7. Travel Nurse

Average Base Salary: $114,279

Job Summary: A travel nurse is a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse who works short-term contracts in various locations where healthcare facilities are understaffed. When contracts end, travel nurses either extend their stay at the same hospital or move on to a new location and opportunity.

Qualifications: Travel nurses must complete a state-approved nursing program, an associate degree in nursing or a B.S. in nursing to pursue licensure where they permanently reside. They must then pass the National Council Licensure Examination.

Typically, you cannot become a travel nurse right out of college, as clinical experience is generally required.

The Nurse Licensure Compact allows licensed RNs to practice legally in 39 participating states. If your location does not fall under the NLC, you must apply for state-specific licensure before you begin employment. Some states may fast track temporary licenses.

8. Construction Manager

Average Base Salary: $91,022

Job Summary: Construction managers oversee the development of buildings and infrastructure, managing tasks onsite, scheduling, budgeting and supervising projects from start to finish. Although they have a main office, construction managers travel to field offices on-site.

Qualifications: When hiring construction managers, most employers prefer they have a bachelor’s degree in construction science, construction management, architecture or civil engineering. However, it is possible to get hired with an associate degree in construction management or technology combined with relevant work experience in the field.

9. Professional Interpreter

Average Base Salary: $53,543

Job Summary: A professional interpreter enables communication between two or more parties who speak different languages. Interpreters can only render oral language, while translators specialize in written text. The most common areas of specialization include: conference, guide, media, public sector, medical and legal. Interpreters, especially liaison or escort interpreters, travel frequently to provide language support.

Qualifications: Professional interpreters are generally required to hold a bachelor's degree, while organizations like the United Nations recommend a master's degree. They should be highly proficient in at least two languages, including the source language (the language spoken by the interpreter) and the target language (the language in which they are interpreting).

10. Diplomat (Foreign Service Officer)

Average Base Salary: $97,246

Job Summary: The mission of a U.S. diplomat in the Foreign Service is to promote peace, support prosperity and protect American citizens while advancing U.S. interests abroad. American diplomats can be employed at any of the more than 270 international embassies or consulates.

Qualifications: While there is no specific academic degree or professional experience required to become an FSO, all applicants must undergo a rigorous hiring process. This consists of a written Foreign Service Officer test, a written personal narrative, an oral interview combined with role-playing exercises and a medical and security clearance review.

Diplomats are generally skilled negotiators with outstanding interpersonal skills who possess knowledge of foreign policy and languages.

Digital Nomad

Alternatively, the digital nomad lifestyle offers a unique work experience that comes with the autonomy of not being chained to an office. Like the name implies, it affords professionals with the opportunity to work remotely while traveling freely.

If you are looking for a job change that will be more suitable to your desire to travel, consider freelance projects or finding companies that offer remote positions. A downside to the digital nomad lifestyle is that you will be responsible to cover your own travel expenses, such as transportation, lodging and meals.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

April 8, 2016

Discover: Encore Fitness (Moscow)

MOSCOW, RUSSIA —  Encore Fitness, a new chain of health clubs in Russia, is opening a flagship fitness centre in Moscow.

The 3,900 sq ft venue, set to become the largest fitness club in Moscow City, will feature eight fitness zones based around the latest global trends and innovations.

A cardio theatre, functional training zone, Pilates studio, group fitness area, balance studio and a martial arts zone with a professional boxing ring will occupy the ground floor, with the second floor housing a spacious 25m pool with relaxation and hydro-massage areas.

The club’s unique thermal complex including a steam room, sauna, hammam, snow room and salt spa, will also be available to members.

Offering a diverse range of activities, over 60 different classes including BodyPump, TRX, and yoga will feature in the club’s extensive schedule. A new online heart rate monitoring system from Myzon will allow guests to get the most out of each and every workout.

Serving a range of healthy, well-balanced dishes alongside juices and detox cocktails, the club’s in-house cafe will cater to every fitness goal.

Discover more about Encore Fitness at:  www.encorefitness.ru

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

They were promised jobs in Russia. They ended up fighting in Ukraine.

SRINAGAR, India — Across India , families are hearing similar stories from men who went abroad in search of work: They were lured to Russia with promises of jobs as cooks or housekeepers, only to find themselves forced to fight alongside the Russian military in its war against Ukraine .

Some families, frustrated by what they say is a lack of support from the Indian government, say they feel they have no choice but to travel to Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine to get their loved ones back.

“For months, the families have been awaiting government action to bring the Indian citizens back home, but so far no progress has been made,” Raja Begum, 65, told NBC News last month as she sat in the yard of her two-story home in Poshwan, a village in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Begum’s son Azad Yousuf Kumar, 31, left India for the United Arab Emirates in December. She said he had been promised a housekeeping job in Dubai by a consultant there identified as Faisal Khan, who often advertised such jobs on his YouTube channel, Baba Vlogs. In exchange for the job, Kumar paid a fee of 300,000 rupees, or $3,600, she said.

Once Kumar arrived, however, “he was informed that there were no available jobs in the UAE,” said Begum, who has been exchanging voice messages with him. Kumar told his mother that Khan said he could still get a job in another country, and convinced him to travel to Russia to work in a kitchen.

Instead, Begum said, Kumar was sent to a military training center in Moscow as soon as he landed. There he underwent 15 days of weapons training along with several other men from India and Nepal before being deployed to fight against Ukrainian forces on the front lines, Begum said, having been forced to sign a contract in a language he did not understand.

“My son had received injuries during the training period,” Begum said. “He was not allowed to have a proper rest and instead was sent close to the border where a deadly battle was going on.”

Kumar’s older brother, Sajad Ahmad Kumar, said Kumar told him that at least a dozen men from India had been trapped in a similar manner by people affiliated with the Baba Vlogs account, which had more than 350,000 subscribers as recently as February but has since been deleted. 

Attempts by NBC News to contact Khan and the Baba Vlogs team for comment were unsuccessful.

India’s Central Bureau of Investigation said last month that it was aware of at least 35 Indian nationals who had been trained for combat and sent to fight in Ukraine against their will after being recruited for jobs in Russia through agents or social media. Some of them have been “grievously injured,” the agency said.

The agency said it had arrested 35 people on suspicion of being involved in human trafficking , and that it had seized about 50 million rupees ($600,000) in cash as well as incriminating documents and electronic records in searches around the country. 

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs said officials were doing their best to get the men home as soon as possible.

“We have also told people not to venture in the war zone or get caught into situations which are difficult,” ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, adding that India was in regular touch with Russian authorities in New Delhi and Moscow and was deeply committed to the “welfare of all Indians.”

India has ties with both Russia and the West and has tried to remain neutral in the Ukraine war, calling for peace talks while refraining from condemning President Vladimir Putin ’s invasion. It has also increased purchases of Russian oil that is steeply discounted amid Western sanctions.

Sajad Ahmad Kumar said his brother and others are now in Russian-occupied Ukraine after crossing the Black Sea under the command of two officers from the Russian army.

“Things have eased a bit for them,” he said. “He used to call from someone’s phone but now he has got his own connection.” 

He said Kumar and several other Indians had approached their embassy in Moscow for help getting home but that officials there “are not taking things seriously.”

The Indian Embassy in Moscow did not respond to requests for comment.

At least two Indian citizens have been killed while fighting alongside the Russian army on the Russia-Ukraine border. They were identified last month as Hemil Ashvinbhai Mangukiya and Mohammad Asfan, from the states of Gujarat and Telangana.

Mangukiya’s father, Ashvinbhai Mangukiya, said his son had been hired as a helper for the Russian army.

“He was supposed to be stationed at Moscow, but he was forced to participate in the ongoing war between the two nations,” he said. 

Mangukiya went to Russia to collect his son’s body after he was killed in the Donetsk region in February. Like others, he has filed cases with the police against Khan and others associated with Baba Vlogs.

“Baba Vlogs is running a nexus,” he said. “The government should take cognizance and arrest all individuals involved in this criminal activity.”

Abdul Rouf, whose son Abdul Nayeem left for Russia in December, said he had spoken to Khan and others at Baba Vlogs when Nayeem, 30, told him they had gotten him a similar job as an army helper in Russia when he approached them in Dubai.

“The job agent assured me that he will not be handed a gun to fight in Ukraine or anywhere else,” said Rouf, a resident of Gulbarga city in the Indian state of Karnataka. His son has since told him that he is in Ukraine, and Rouf is planning to travel to Russia to try to help him.

Mohammad Mustafa, another Karnataka resident whose son is stranded in Russian-occupied Ukraine, said he was tired of waiting for news and was going to Russia himself.

“We can go to any extent to retrieve our children,” he said. 

“Two Indian citizens have already been killed and we don’t want to lose any other person.”

Muheet Ul Islam is a journalist and filmmaker based in Indian-administered Kashmir.

• How to Listen
• Brian Kilmeade Show
• FOX Across America with Jimmy Failla
• Guy Benson Show
• Premium Podcast Account Access
• FOX News Talk All-In-One Podcast
• FOX Across America Premium Podcast
• Brian Kilmeade Show Premium Podcast
• MEGAcast All-In-One Podcast
• FOX & Friends
• Outnumbered
• The Daily Briefing With Dana Perino
• Your World with Neil Cavuto
• Special Report with Bret Baier
• The Ingraham Angle
• Mornings With Maria
• Varney and Company
• Fox News Podcasts
• Fox Business
• Fox Deportes
• Fox TV Stations
• Fox News Commentary
• Station Finder
• Become an Affiliate

From Immigration To Investment: The Mauricio Umansky Blueprint

• Everyone Talks To Liz Claman

Today’s podcast is a masterclass on what to do when faced with the unexpected. Getting fired is often the best time to pivot and change careers completely.

At 26,  Mauricio Umanksy  was suddenly fired from his job and took a huge leap that ultimately was the reason for all of his success.

Founder of The Agency and Real Estate Superstar joins Liz to explain how one of the lowest points of his life turned into a massive empire that has sold 72 billion dollars in properties and even led to becoming the star of his own Netflix Show,  Buying Beverly Hills .

Follow Liz on X: @LizClaman

You May Be Interested In...

An ETTL Encore…Going Deep Into The Mind of Kevin O’Leary

A River Runs Through Her: Comedy Genius Joan Rivers’ Daughter Melissa On Laughter & Life

An ETTL Encore… Pro Wrestler Ric Flair On His Six Decades Of Life Smackdowns

An ETTL Encore…How Poppi Founder Allison Ellsworth Went From Food Stamps To #1 Soda On Amazon

Driven To Laughter: Jimmy Failla’s Ride From Taxi Driver To Late-Night Host

‘Sock’ It To Me: Sole Search For Success With Bombas Co-Founder Dave Heath

• New Privacy Policy
• New Terms of Use
• (What’s New)
• Your Privacy Choices