Finding a Job as a Newcomer
Finding a job as a newcomer in a foreign country can be challenging — especially in the fast-changing world of IT. At Josephson Databeheer, a data management company in Rotterdam, Olena found not only her first role in the Netherlands but also a workplace where her skills and motivation could truly shine.
Originally from Ukraine, Olena came to the Netherlands due to the war. She was determined to build a new future for herself and her family, and together with Port of Opportunities, she successfully found her place at Josephson Databeheer.
Meeting Olena
Our career coaches met Olena during an IT event that we organized together with Stichting Mano in Rotterdam.
She had just completed a programming bootcamp and immediately caught the attention of Joop Huijsdens, owner of Josephson and a valued colleague of Port of Opportunities.
Joop was looking for an additional IT talent to strengthen his team. He was quickly convinced by Olena’s motivation and technical skills.
Since May 2023, Olena has been part of the team. Joop describes her as a steadfast and reliable asset:
“Olena is highly independent and adapts easily. Whether she works alone or with a full team, she performs exceptionally well. She even takes on tasks outside her usual scope when needed.”
Smooth Integration and Strong Communication
When we checked in a few weeks later, Joop praised Olena’s seamless integration:
“Olena integrated far more easily than we expected. We thought the language difference might cause issues, but it hasn’t. Her English is excellent, and communication goes smoothly. She quickly learns any knowledge she needs.”
Olena also feels very comfortable in her new workplace. She appreciates the support and guidance from her colleagues:
“They’ve created a nurturing environment where we help each other grow. Working at Josephson has supported both my personal and professional integration in the Netherlands.”
She adds:
“Because the office mainly uses Dutch, my language learning has improved three times faster than before. Immersing myself in the culture and work environment has been invaluable.”
Learning from Each Other
To support Olena’s integration, Joop and the team came up with a creative idea:
“Every morning, we learn a Ukrainian word,” Joop explains.
“It helps us understand how challenging it is for Olena to hear Dutch all day.”
This daily tradition not only breaks language barriers but also strengthens team spirit and mutual respect.
The Job Itself
Olena is genuinely enthusiastic about her work:
“I find my job very satisfying. There are constant learning opportunities and engaging tasks that bring variety. I’m working with a programming language I had never used before, which has really expanded my skills.”
She continues:
“It wasn’t easy at first, but my passion — combined with my colleagues’ support — helped me overcome every challenge. Since joining, I’ve improved our programs to be more user-friendly, engaging, and visually appealing. I’ve also learned about new technologies beyond web development, broadening my expertise.”
Joop adds with pride:
“Olena brought a design-oriented approach that our team was missing. Her eye for design has been a real asset.”
We can confirm Joop’s words — Olena even designed several pages for the Port of Opportunities website, and they look fantastic!
Sports and Team Spirit
Besides programming, Olena and Joop discovered a shared passion for sports. They play table tennis together almost every day.
Joop says:
“Olena is active in the social side of our company and joins nearly every sports activity.”
Olena smiles:
“I never thought I’d love table tennis this much! Now I can’t imagine a workday without a few matches. The sports culture at Josephson keeps us active and connected. We also play padel together weekly!”
Why Josephson Databeheer and Port of Opportunities Are a Great Match
Both Joop and Olena are very positive about their collaboration with Port of Opportunities.
Olena shares:
“Port of Opportunities helped me find my dream job. They are sincere, responsive, and supportive. I recommend every newcomer in the Netherlands to contact them — it can be the key to your dream career.”
Joop also recommends working with newcomers through Port of Opportunities:
“They deliver what they promise. The team truly guides job seekers from around the world to suitable positions. They invest time and creativity into every match.”
He concludes:
“Hiring newcomers is absolutely worth it. A diverse team creates a better work atmosphere — and that’s exactly what Olena brought to Josephson Databeheer.”
PS This showcase was co-produced with Olena, Josephson Databeheer and Port of Opportunities.