As an immigrant who moved from Romania to Finland 20 years ago, I have firsthand experience of the significant challenges that come with adapting to a new country, especially when entering the job market. Finding a job in a foreign country can be intimidating due to language barriers, differing work cultures, and a lack of networks. Monaliiku, as both a support system and employer, has been instrumental in opening doors for immigrant women to integrate into the Finnish workforce. Monaliiku has been a crucial employer for immigrant women, offering not only jobs but also opportunities for growth, development, and empowerment. Employment is a powerful integration tool, enabling individuals to build confidence, form networks, and participate in society. By providing paid work and internships, Monaliiku creates an environment where women can practice Finnish in a natural setting, gain a deeper understanding of workplace dynamics in Finland, and develop essential IT skills. In my journey as Monaliiku’s CEO, I have had to learn a great deal—whether it’s about HR, finance, or strategic planning. This learning process hasn’t been easy, but it’s been rewarding. Through Monaliiku, I’ve been able to offer similar opportunities to many other women who, like me, started as immigrants searching for their place in Finnish society. Working, learning, and growing in an organization like Monaliiku can be transformative. So far, Monaliiku has supported or is currently training seven women through apprenticeships as instructors or business professionals, helping them gain the skills and qualifications for stable employment in Finland. Additionally, at least 22 women have been employed through a wage subsidy program, which makes it easier for employers to hire those with less experience or who need an opportunity to prove themselves in the job market. Many women have also gained valuable experience through job trials, and Monaliiku has welcomed many students for internships, offering them a supportive path into working life. We’ve also participated in the STEA Paikka auki program, which has helped many young people find their footing in the job market. Programs like Paikka auki are critical in providing support to youth and vulnerable groups who might otherwise struggle to secure employment. We believe that these types of wage subsidies are essential for creating opportunities for those at the margins of the job market. While providing employment and training opportunities to immigrant women and youth requires considerable additional effort in mentorship, guidance, and administrative support, the long-term benefits far outweigh the work. For many immigrant women, Monaliiku is the first place where they feel genuinely seen and supported on their professional journeys. It’s not just a job but an environment where they can learn, participate, and feel empowered to take their next steps forward. As an employer, Monaliiku is committed to creating pathways for women and youth who face added barriers to employment. By offering jobs through programs like wage subsidy, job trials, and Paikka auki, we help remove obstacles and create an inclusive, supportive workplace where immigrant women and youth can thrive. Through this work, Monaliiku not only promotes individual growth but also contributes to the broader effort to build a more diverse, inclusive, and equal Finnish society.