Finnish training program helps immigrants find work in their field – dozens land jobs or start businesses

A project by Finland’s Humak University of Applied Sciences has successfully helped immigrants with creative backgrounds secure employment in their fields through structured coaching, resulting in 12 new businesses and numerous job placements, reports Yle.

Many immigrants in Finland struggle to find work matching their qualifications, often due to a lack of professional networks and self-confidence. The CreActive project, led by Humak, addressed these challenges by offering long-term coaching to 116 creative professionals—half of whom were Finnish-born and half immigrants.

The results were striking: 18 participants found jobs in their fields, 27 began freelance work, four rented studio spaces, and 12 launched new creative businesses, cooperatives, or associations. Anna Pikala, a coach in the program, emphasized that while practical tools like tax guidance were provided, the real transformation came from shifting mindsets.

“Many participants had the skills and education but lacked confidence and networks,” Pikala explained. “We pushed them out of their comfort zones—even simple tasks, like visiting a company under the guise of a school assignment, built courage.”

Nadejda Dimitrova, a history and culture graduate from Bulgaria who had previously worked in gardening, credited the program with boosting her self-esteem. “The most important thing was getting to know myself better,” she said. Since completing the coaching, Dimitrova has volunteered with immigrant support organizations, mentored newcomers, exhibited her art, and started a work trial at Daisy Ladies, an association for immigrant women.

The EU-partially funded project’s success has prompted plans for expansion. While focused on creative fields, the model could apply broadly. “Being active always pays off,” Dimitrova advised others. “And study Finnish—it’s essential.”