I grew up in a less privileged part of South Africa and worked my way up to become one of the youngest female executives at a global company. My journey started with a scholarship from a packaging company, which helped me earn a degree in Natural and Environmental Sciences. I began my career as a Food Scientist in an R&D facility, where I developed a passion for innovation. That passion led me to self-fund a master’s in Innovation Management, focusing on ideation to commercialization.
Over time, I moved into management consulting and quality management roles. Most recently, I led B2B sales at a NYSE-listed chemical and energy company, managing a billion-dollar portfolio and handling major negotiations with industry leaders. The natural next step would have been a VP role, but my heart was set on a different path, to transition into the clean energy sector in Europe. Finland, my husband’s home country, felt like the perfect place for this new chapter.
The Administrative Maze
Moving to Finland was a real test of patience, and honestly, I wasn’t prepared for how cumbersome immigration and integration would be. The process felt scattered, with different agencies like DVV, and Finnish Migration Services, amongst others were not always on the same page. Their conflicting requirements caused months of delays. Registering as a job seeker, announcing my relocation, each step had mandatory waiting periods that could not run in parallel. Even opening a bank account required a pile of paperwork to confirm the source of funds, including in-person visits.
Between July 2023 and February 2024, the registration and residence permit process faced multiple delays, sometimes requiring interventions. And even after we got the permits, my son wasn’t given a social security number right away, which meant more delays in accessing basic services. From my experience, getting a residence permit can take six months or longer, and to fully settle in, like getting a social security number, opening a bank account, and finding a job can take over a year or even longer. It really makes me wonder: is this the most efficient way to do things?
The Job Market and Integration
Integration courses and Finnish language studies had become a part of my path forward given that, over 100 job applications had led nowhere but I remain determined to find a workplace where I can use my diverse set of skills. Finding an internship for language studies was challenging since most companies weren’t open to taking interns solely for language learning. Ironically, many of these companies operate in English as their main business language. I guess I am still puzzled by the disconnect between government programs and private sector needs in this regard.
However, I finally got a break when I found a company that valued my skills more than my Finnish language ability in February 2025. I landed this opportunity through networking on LinkedIn and became an Analyst Trainee at the Finnish Startup Community, working with Chief Economist Youssef Zad. In this role, I’ve been able to make a real impact in the startup world. From day one, I had the time and space to learn, apply my business skills through analysis, and even do consulting work for a startup member company.
I co-authored two reports—one on Finnish EdTech startups, which looked at the industry’s overall performance, successes, challenges, and outlook. The other report focused on VTT spin-offs, analyzing their financial performance, funding sources, and economic impact. One of the best parts has been attending community events, where I’ve met inspiring entrepreneurs who are passionate about innovation and growing Finland’s economy.
Looking Forward
Even though there have been challenges, just like many other skilled professionals who come to Finland ready to contribute, I stay hopeful. I came to Finland with experience in working in a complex billion-dollar company, a solid background in leadership, and a good understanding of global markets. With the right opportunity, I know I can help businesses expand, tackle cross-cultural challenges, and drive growth.
I believe it’s time for a system that truly recognizes and taps into people’s potential. A big thanks to the Finnish Startup Community (and I’m sure there are others too) for leading the way.
“The Finnish startup community’s team thanks Ntheng for her excellent work and contribution to the startup community over the past month. She has done outstanding and efficient work, being a great help to the entire team,” says Riikka Pakarinen, CEO of the Finnish startup community.