Deniz Zengin*
Introduction: In this exclusive interview, we delve into the remarkable journey of Mustafa Abdulameer, a successful entrepreneur who, against all odds, forged his path from Iraq to Finland. Mustafa’s experiences as an immigrant entrepreneur shed light on the challenges and triumphs that come with pursuing a dream in a new land. We invite you to enjoy this enlightening read.
Could you please share your personal journey and experiences as a successful entrepreneur in Iraq?
Of course, my entrepreneurial journey started in Iraq before I arrived in Finland as a refugee in 2015. Iraq’s political instability provided me with valuable experiences that shaped my entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. Growing up there, I witnessed both challenges and opportunities, which inspired me to embark on an entrepreneurial path to create positive change in my community.
Facing numerous obstacles in Iraq, I honed my creativity, resourcefulness, and determination. These challenges taught me the importance of adaptability and quick decision-making in adversity.
Upon arriving in Finland in 2015, I brought this entrepreneurial spirit and experience with me. Finland’s stable environment and access to resources enabled me to take my entrepreneurial journey to the next level. With the support of the Finnish community and ecosystem, I founded a successful EdTech company. Today, our EdTech company thrives, making a positive impact on education in Finland and beyond. Our journey from Iraq to Finland is one of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of empowering learners and transforming education.
Could you elaborate on your own experiences as an immigrant in Finland?
Certainly, I can provide insights into my experiences as an immigrant in Finland, particularly regarding employment opportunities.
Finding employment, especially during the initial stages of resettlement, comes with significant challenges:
Language Barrier: One of the most significant challenges I faced was the language barrier. Finnish is complex, and while many Finns speak English, not all employment opportunities are accessible without proficiency in Finnish or Swedish, especially in fields requiring strong communication skills.
Networking Challenges: Building a professional network in a new country can be daunting. Finns value personal relationships and trust, making it challenging to break into established networks, which is a significant hurdle.
Credential Recognition: Depending on one’s profession and qualifications, getting foreign credentials recognized in Finland can be challenging. Immigrants often find themselves at a disadvantage due to their backgrounds, needing to explain and demonstrate more than their Finnish peers.
Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to Finnish workplace culture and norms can also be a learning curve. Understanding the Finnish work ethic, communication style, and expectations takes time.
Furthermore, recent changes in government programs have exacerbated these challenges, hindering Finland’s ability to attract and retain foreign talents.
In your opinion, what path should immigrants follow? Do you believe that sticking to their own cultures and potential issues with integration are linked?
In my opinion, immigrants should follow a nuanced path that doesn’t necessarily involve abandoning their own cultures. Integration and cultural preservation can coexist, and finding the right balance is crucial for a successful immigrant experience.
Integration: Immigrants should actively seek to integrate into the host society. This entails more than just learning the language; it involves understanding local customs, participating in the community, and building relationships. Integration is essential for accessing job opportunities and feeling like valued members of society.
Education and Awareness: Immigrants should educate themselves about the host country’s history, values, and institutions. This knowledge facilitates better integration and a deeper understanding of the society in which they now live.
Community Involvement: Becoming involved in immigrant or cultural communities within the host country can provide a support network and a sense of belonging, helping newcomers navigate integration challenges.
Flexibility: Immigrants should remain open to adapting their cultural practices to fit into the host society. Flexibility and a willingness to learn from others can facilitate smoother integration.
