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Omolara Odediran has two degrees, but has been unable to apply her skills: “I want to feel part of Finland and be important”

Omolara Odediran is a business professional with degrees in education and fashion. She is looking for managerial jobs in the clothing sector or related sectors.

“I'm Omolara Odediran, and I’m from Nigeria. I graduated as a teacher in my home country in 2011. Handicrafts were always valued at home when I was growing up, which is why I also studied fashion design. I continued my language studies and studies in education in Budapest while working as a teaching assistant. 
 
I moved to Finland eight years ago. I applied for teaching jobs in international schools, but I never got invited to an interview. So I decided to start studying a new profession.

I started my business studies and completed them quickly. During my studies, I got to work with many Finnish companies. I felt very confident: recent work experience, good results, references, two higher education degrees, passion. I was sure I’d soon find a job. I received a lot of praise and encouragement, and I was proud of myself.
 
But I still didn’t get called to any interviews. This has been going on for five years now.  I’m looking for work mostly in the commercial sector. I’ve applied for summer jobs, internships, everything. All I get back are emails with “Unfortunately” in them. 

It helps that I’m surrounded by people who support and encourage me, and gently push me forward. I’ve also learned to recognise my strengths. My superpowers are my intuition and creativity, and I’m also a good team player.”
 
Since moving to Finland I’ve worked as a cleaner, in telesales, as a daycare assistant – and I’ve also studied Finnish and completed entrepreneurship training. I now have my own clothing business. I love making clothes, but I would also like to be able to make use of my business degree. My dream is to work at managerial level, for example in fashion and clothing.
 
I don’t want to be just some random foreigner who appears in the statistics. I want to feel part of Finland and be important.”

Omolara Odediran 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.