EN – FI

Cucu Wesseh, who is studying for a third degree, has only been able to get short-term work in Finland

Cucu Wesseh is a Health and Social Services professional and Master of Arts graduate and is currently pursuing a masters' degree in Health Science management and Social Services with emphasis on Innovative Human-centered Leadership. He is seeking a leadership role as team lead in the social services sector.

“I come from Liberia, a country with the world’s most beautiful beaches, endless sunshine and incredible African skies. What’s also beautiful there is the genuine interaction between people. 

At the age of sixteen  I was awarded an academic scholarship by the Liberian National Student Union to pursue studies abroad. I chose to travel to Russia and relocated for studies in 1986. During my studies a 14-years civil war began in Liberia on Christmas eve of 1989. And so, I moved from Moscow to Finland at the end of my studies, and started as a visiting student at the University of Helsinki. As a new graduate, I was eager to work as a teacher of history or in a similar role. 

I’ve worked as an assistant and as a cleaner, among other things, but I realised that I needed a second degree to get a job that matched my skills. That’s how set about further studies: strategic marketing, international business, and more.

I found out that I get along well  with people, and learned Finnish easily and fast. I decided to obtain a bachelor’s degree in social services, and graduated in 2012. I’m currently pursuing a new higher education degree in Health Science management and Social Services with emphasis on Innovative Human-centered Leadership. 

Like many with an immigrant background, I’ve ended up doing a lot of short-term work. I’m currently a youth project worker for the City of Kerava, and my job involves visiting schools to talk about the problem of young people getting involved in gangs. When the project ends, I’ll start looking for work again. 
 
I’d like to work as a team leader. With over 20 years of experience working at grassroots level, I have an excellent grasp of the different dynamics of social work and youth work. My dream project would be one that would help me bring about social change and help immigrants find work.
 
My view is that it’s only by highlighting problems that we can find solutions. I am a change agent with a very positive mentality. It’s only a matter of time before I meet someone who recognises and trusts my qualifications.”

Cucu Wesseh is involved in Rastor-instituutti’s Työelämäteko working life action campaign. As the messengers for the campaign we chose three highly skilled immigrants who have not been able to put their expertise to good use in Finland due to prejudice. At Rastor-instituutti, we are committed to doing all we can to help them find a job in Finland that matches their education.