In this article, we celebrate the remarkable journeys of five individuals who have taken bold steps to start to work in Finland through our recruitment program. These stories of resilience, adaptation, and growth inspire us all. Let’s dive into the experiences of Rachael, Ana, Rick, Dolorittah, and Raphael! These recruits share their insights on various aspects of their transitions to life in Finland.

Rachael from Nigeria: Rachael, a dedicated nurse with experience in several hospitals in Nigeria, arrived in Finland in February 2024.

Ana from the Philippines: Ana, who arrived in Finland in December 2023, has experience in homecare and is currently studying to become a lähihoitaja (practical nurse).

Rick from the Philippines: Rick, a chef from the Philippines, arrived in Finland in April 2024.

Dolorittah from Kenya: Dolorittah, with experience as a carer in hospitals and home care in Kenya, arrived in Finland in February 2024.

Raphael from the Philippines: Raphael, a certified nursing assistant with experience in Dubai, arrived in Finland in December 2023.

Now, let’s explore their experiences and insights as they navigate life and work in Finland.

Each of our recruits found Silk Road through different channels, but they all appreciated the smooth and transparent recruitment process. Rachael discovered Silk Road via social media and described the recruitment journey as swift, timely, and flawless. She valued the constant communication and clear instructions, which made it easy to know what to do next.

Ana learned about Silk Road through a friend and appreciated the no-placement-fee policy. She found the process efficient and well-organized, despite the challenge of studying Finnish while working in Dubai. Dolorittah also heard about our recruitment program through a friend and found the process smooth and accessible.

Rick found Silk Road on Facebook. Although the process took almost five months, he felt well-prepared and supported, especially with the Finnish language studies provided by NLRC. Raphael applied through Silk Road’s Facebook page as well, and highlighted the importance of following instructions, especially regarding the free language training.

Learning Finnish has been a significant challenge for all our recruits, but each has found ways to cope and improve. Rachael uses online resources, listening, and practicing to integrate better. Ana emphasized the necessity of passing the language level test, despite the difficulty of studying while working abroad.

Rick found learning Finnish tough but manageable by watching social media videos where content creators teach Finnish words. This approach made pronouncing difficult words easier. Dolorittah, too, faced challenges with the language but developed a genuine interest in it through determination and perseverance. Raphael stressed the importance of solid time management skills to balance work, studies, and language learning.

The transition to new work in Finland brought both excitement and adjustment challenges. Rachael now works in elderly care and finds her workplace welcoming and supportive, with cooperative residents and warm colleagues. Ana, working in homecare, values the role of providing care to the elderly and assisting adults in maintaining their independence.

Rick, a chef, works in a private care service where his primary task is to prepare food for elderly patients. He appreciates the peaceful environment and excellent work-life balance, despite not working in a typical kitchen he’s used to. Dolorittah, deployed at Attendo Leppävirta, enjoys the diverse work community and supportive colleagues. Raphael, working as a hoiva-avustaja (nurse assistant), is impressed by the excellent working conditions and fair salaries.

Experiencing Finnish culture and lifestyle has been a unique journey for each recruit. Rachael has embraced the Finnish winter, local cuisine, efficient train system, sauna culture, and quiet neighborhoods. She cherishes the opportunity to experience a completely new way of life.

Ana highlights the excellent work-life balance in Finland and the ample opportunities for professional growth through free education. She is currently studying to become a lähihoitaja (practical nurse), which offers fantastic career advancement opportunities. Rick, despite being told it would be spring, experienced snow on his first evening in Finland and had the chance to walk on a frozen lake, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Dolorittah admits that the Finnish weather can be chilly, but with the right attire, she feels ready to tackle anything. She looks forward to having her family join her in Finland and experiencing the change together. Raphael appreciates the equality and respect shown by Finnish people regardless of religion, race, or gender. He feels right at home in Finland’s tranquil atmosphere.

Our recruits have valuable advice for those considering a similar journey. Rachael encourages everyone to stay focused, work hard, and love every bit of the program. Ana emphasizes the importance of determination and focusing on the goal to make dreams come true.

Rick advises others not to be afraid to step out of their comfort zone and explore new environments. He encourages all applicants to trust the process, believe in themselves, and know that they can achieve more. Dolorittah urges others to seize the opportunity to experience Finland’s work culture, benefits, and excellent infrastructure. Raphael assures prospective recruits that Silk Road is a legitimate company offering great opportunities and encourages them to embrace the new journey.

The journeys of Rachael, Ana, Rick, Dolorittah, and Raphael highlight the transformative experiences of adapting to a new life and work in Finland. Their resilience, determination, and positive outlook are truly inspiring. We are proud to have them as part of the Silk Road family and look forward to supporting more recruits in their transitions to work in Finland.