Migrant women are playing a key role in shaping Finland’s future, bridging labour shortages and contributing to industries from healthcare to education and integration services. Despite facing challenges, many have built successful careers and are now creating opportunities for others.
Cecilia Naadensua Quarshie moved to Finland from Ghana and built a career in early childhood education.
Starting as a cleaner while studying, she became a daycare director and later launched her own business. “When I struggled to find new opportunities, I created my own,” she said. She now runs a business summit celebrating migrant entrepreneurs and is standing in municipal elections to challenge perceptions of what migrants can achieve.
Aziza Hossaini, originally from Afghanistan, arrived in Finland as a quota refugee at age 12. Losing her parents at a young age, she found strength in writing and advocacy. “Instead of dwelling on challenges, I focus on finding solutions,” she said. Now a legal interpreter and integration expert, she helped shape Finland’s new integration law by advocating for civic orientation courses in migrants’ native languages.
Shielou Ann Tervonen came to Finland as a nurse from the Philippines, helping to address Finland’s healthcare labour shortage. After retraining to meet Finnish qualifications, she returned to working in operating rooms. She now recruits Filipino nurses to Finland, ensuring they receive support throughout their journey. “Helping others is incredibly rewarding—whether it’s caring for patients or guiding new arrivals,” she said.
These women highlight how migrant professionals strengthen Finland’s workforce and economy. Their efforts not only fill critical gaps but also inspire future generations to pursue careers and leadership roles.
HT
Source IOM Finland
