Peace and safety made a strong impression on Astrud
When Astrud Lisboa arrived in Kuopio in September 2022, she had nearly a decade of experience as a registered nurse in the Philippines and three intensive years working as a nurse specialist in Saudi Arabia.
In January 2022, after the COVID-19 pandemic, returning from Saudi Arabia to her home country felt natural. At the same time, she had begun to envision a different kind of future. Astrud had read that Finland is the happiest country in the world, and she started learning more about it. Finland felt like a place where she could start over and build a life in peace.
Through her local manpower agency, Astrud soon found an open nursing position in Kuopio. After moving to Finland, she began her studies in social and healthcare, first through apprenticeship training and later at Savonia University of Applied Sciences to obtain the legal permission to work in the field in Finland. She graduated in January 2024, and today she works in a permanent position within the Wellbeing services county of North Savo.
Working in Finland is different
Nursing in Finland differs significantly from Astrud’s experiences in the Philippines and Saudi Arabia. She describes the work as calmer and more structured.
– In many ways the work feels lighter, because I have more freedom to plan my days. It’s wonderful that I can influence my work shifts and that my wishes are taken into account. I’m very grateful for this, Astrud says.
One of the biggest cultural surprises was the Finnish sense of equality and open communication.
– It was a small shock to realize that we call our elderly clients – and even our boss – by their first name. But at the same time, it shows how equally everyone is treated, she reflects.
Language skill is the key to everything
Language has been one of the most important factors in Astrud’s integration. She studied Finnish language and culture for five months before moving to Finland and continued her studies after arriving in Kuopio.
– Language skills are essential. I need to speak, listen, and understand Finnish to work safely. It’s critical both for me and for my patients, Astrud emphasizes.
Even though Finnish has been challenging, Astrud has approached learning it with determination.
– I had a clear goal: I wanted to work and settle in Finland for a longer time. That’s why studying the language was an obvious choice for me, she explains.
Supportive colleagues and new values
Astrud says she adapted to her workplace surprisingly easily. Although she had learned about Finnish culture and working methods before moving, everyday life brought its own surprises.
– My colleagues have been incredibly friendly and patient. I felt welcomed, and I never felt like an outsider, Astrud says with a smile.
She was initially amused by certain Finnish habits: shared changing rooms, direct teaching style, and precise attendance tracking. Today, she sees them as part of an open and transparent work culture.
Astrud feels that Finnish working life has also influenced her own professional values. She appreciates the low hierarchy, direct and honest communication, and the clear separation between work and free time. Finnish workplaces place strong emphasis on wellbeing and safety, which has brought more balance to her daily life.
– Here, no one calls you about work during your holiday or day off. It shows that your free time is respected, she notes.
Peace and safety make Finland special
When Astrud talks about her life in Kuopio and Finland, she speaks above all about peace and safety. The Finnish nature continues to impress her year after year. Winter, with its snowfall, is especially dear to her.
– It’s safe and stable here – that’s very important to me. And believe it or not, but I love winter! I take videos everytime it’s snowing and send them to my family in the Philippines. It feels magical every single time, Astrud says.
Astrud acknowledges that Finland may not be the right place for everyone, but for those who appreciate peaceful life, nature, and balance, it can be a perfect choice. She encourages newcomers to study the language, be patient, and approach Finnish culture with respect.
– Finland isn’t a country where everything is handed to you. The cost of living is high, and integration takes time. But if you truly want to live here, it’s worth it, she says.
– Language is the key to everything. And Finns value it when you respect them and their culture – especially the older generation.
In Finland, Astrud feels she can grow, breathe, and build a secure future.
– Kuopio is my home – a place where I can be at peace, Astrud concludes.
Text: Mainostoimisto SST
Photos: Astrud Lisboa
