During the mentor program of Refugee Talent Hub and Ochtendmensen, young professionals help newcomers on their way in their search for work. Young professionals Laura and Raela were mentors to the couple Sermin and Huseyin, who fled from Turkey to the Netherlands almost three years ago.

Please note: this article was translated using a translator app

Ochtendmensen is an organization with young professionals who want to make progress in current social themes. It is therefore not surprising that Laura and Raela immediately warmed up to the mentor program: “Helping newcomers fits in well with what we do. And because we are at the start of our career, the search for work is also close to us. In addition, it is nice to be able to help a newcomer get settled as a rooted citizen!” Their mentees, Sermin and Huseyin, were just as enthusiastic: “We had set a goal for ourselves that we would be working within three years of arriving in the Netherlands.” wanted to be or have an internship. We wanted to integrate as quickly as possible.”

 Before coming to the Netherlands, they both worked full-time in their home country Turkey as a school psychologist. They led a busy life, with a young family and many social activities. “But when we were in the AZC, we suddenly did nothing all day. That's not for us. We want to keep busy, learn to speak the language well, stand on our own two feet and be independent. We immediately started looking for volunteer work and other things we could do.” Huseyin is now doing an internship as a family worker and Sermin will soon start working at a social knowledge institute, where she will follow a traineeship for two years. So goal achieved!

The language as the key

 “The first year in the Netherlands was very difficult,” says Huseyin. “In fact, everything was difficult: the language, the traffic, the rules, the lifestyle…. That's why we thought it was so important to learn to speak the language quickly. Then you can ask questions and understand the culture faster.” Sermin adds: “A course is not enough to learn the language. You have to get to know people, talk to them. We met so many nice people who helped us with everything. The most important thing is that you just try everything.”

Same issues

 It is admirable how Sermin and Huseyin have worked. Always active, looking for new networks and opportunities, having conversations and asking questions. Raela gives them a big compliment for this: “We actually expected that we would provide very concrete help with, for example, creating a CV. But they knew that very well! We actually helped a lot more from the 'soft side'. Had conversations about applying for jobs, unwritten rules, cultural differences and things like that. Just from person to person.” “The search for work that suits you, that is a theme that unites us. In that sense we are in the same phase. So ultimately you are dealing with the same issues, you wonder what options are available and you experience similar uncertainties. Giving each other tips on this was very valuable,” Laura adds.

The value of work

 All four indicate in their own words that work makes you an active part of society, and that good work gives you energy. “It shows once again that we all basically have the same needs!” All four are curious and open in life, and so were their conversations. “It was so nice to have somewhere to go with all our questions,” says Huseyin. For Laura and Raela it was very valuable to look at their own culture through different eyes. “Your view is broadened and you suddenly think about things that you have always taken for granted. It is enriching to be taken out of your own bubble for a while.”

Tips for other newcomers

 “Knock on every door you come across and you will see it open,” Huseyin and Sermin indicate. “The Dutch are really nice and they want to help. And it is important that you stay active yourself. As we say in Turkey: “A running fox is better than a lying lion.” “Are you a newcomer, motivated and ready to get started? But you don't know where and how? Huseyin and Sermin hope their story has inspired you! So some more tips:

 •Find organizations that can help you, such as Refugee Talent Hub, UAF or NewBees. They can be your catalyst;

 •Sign up for newsletters from organizations you find interesting and follow them on social media;

 •If you see a nice program, request more information or register;

 •Tell your story;

 •Exchange experiences with other newcomers;

 • Seek out other people, conversations give you new energy;

 •Don't be afraid: dare to ask, dare to do, dare to speak Dutch. Be brave.