Testimonials
“Taking part in the Degree Amplify project opened my eyes to information I didn’t know before. For example, I got to understand the main idea about recognition of diplomas in Finland…”
According to Mariam, one of the participants of the project:
“Taking part in the Degree Amplify project opened my eyes to information I didn’t know before. For example, I got to understand the main idea about recognition of diplomas in Finland, opetushallitus (OPH), and what are regulated professions in Finland, and details related to my diploma in electrical engineering. I also got to know about Ely-keskus and the role they play with regards to the recognition of previous diplomas. It was a challenge for me to find out that I do not qualify for the TE toimisto training where they can assist in paying the application fees for the recognition because I have already lived in Finland for more than 3 years. So that is why I have to participate in this project and also pay for the application fees by myself because I need to get my diploma recognized so I can move on to the next steps in my career.”
This is one of many common challenges that international professionals in Finland are facing. It’s important that everyone have access to the information needed to integrate into society and use their skills to work and continue the career from the very beginning.
We’re happy that this program helps Mariam with the application process and start her first step in her career path.”
“I found out that I need to apply for a license from Valvira, in order to work as a psychologist in Finland. This was something new and confusing for me…”
Kristina, one of the participants of our Degree Amplify project, shares her experience trying to start the process of getting her diploma recognized in Finland.
“I found out that I need to apply for a license from Valvira, in order to work as a psychologist in Finland. This was something new and confusing for me. I tried a couple of times to start the process, but I always felt that I should focus on the Finnish language because without that I couldn’t go further, also I felt alone not knowing where to start. With Degree Amplify, my mentor to whom I am very grateful gave me the courage to continue with the process, focusing on the things that I already have. Also, she provided me with new information and answered all my worries and questions. Having someone to guide you is great support mentally and also an opportunity to meet new friends. Thanks to all the team for the support!”
“My mentor guided me in discovering my interests and assisted me in overcoming some work-related challenges…”
Kelly, is one of the participants of our One Mentor One program.
“Through this mentorship program, she discovered her interests and overcame some work-related challenges. Interests, unfortunately, can often be overlooked during one’s career journey. However, when identifying competencies and interests, individuals can align their careers with them. Therefore, they may feel more motivated to acquire relevant knowledge and skills, set high career objectives, and take action to meet those objectives.
As for the work-related challenges, we all face them, sometimes to a big, sometimes to a small extent. Nevertheless, it is good to discuss them with peers and find out a way with their help to overcome them, as it is part of our professional journey.”
“I was able to save time because my mentor knows how the diploma equivalency process works and gave me great advice about it. This mentorship made me gain confidence in my integration process and therefore accelerated it…”
Another international professional, Cyrille, a participant in our mentorship program One-Mentor-One, has this to say:
“I was able to save time because my mentor knows how the diploma equivalency process works and gave me great advice about it. This mentorship made me gain confidence in my integration process and therefore accelerated it.”
Talents with higher education diplomas relevant to regulated professions (e.g. teachers) need to have the qualifications claimed from abroad recognized in Finland to work in those sectors. Unfortunately, many foreigners arriving in Finland do not know this, and hence their integration process becomes more complicated and slower. Therefore, internationals need to become familiar with such procedures and gain an insight into them so they do not feel lost.”
“If you need any support, or have any questions, feel free to reach out to the organization, they are as helpful as good family members.”
Maha is one of the participants of our SATAtalents project.
“I’ve come across endless bittersweet stories since I got into the international professional circle. That’s when I started stalking the International Professionals Finland ry community, and started bugging Olivia Kumpula every now and then to help me out. I owe you.
For being so generous with your time, energy, contacts and for taking it upon yourself to come up with answers to my very specific case. I met my employer Spear Innovations at a networking event held by International Professionals Finland ry in Pori. And I will be forever thankful they saw past the language barrier.
To the world, this is no major news. To me, I know this is a matter of trajectory, and that it’s put me on the right one.
If you need any support, or have any questions, feel free to reach out to the organization, they are as helpful as good family members.”
“I highly recommend everyone to get involved in events like the #satatalents project. You will gain more than you think.”
Another international professional Jichen, a participant in our SATAtalents project has this to say:
“This project largely helped me to develop my career. I received support and encouragement from Olivia Kumpula, who is the CEO of International Professionals Finland ry, and my career coach Minna Franck. This project helped me to find my current job to some extent. I highly recommend everyone to get involved in events like the #satatalents project, you will gain more than you think. As an international student in Finland, I understand very well that living in another country you will encounter many challenges, so it is important to have an optimistic mind. You will learn and grow from the difficulties and eventually overcome them.”
