Alaa (41): "You need to be proactive to integrate in a new country"
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Building a new life in another country is never easy. You have to learn the language, understand the culture and find your place in society. Alaa (41) from Syria talks about how he built his future in the Netherlands step by step.
His first steps in the Netherlands: volunteering work
When Alaa had just arrived in the Netherlands, he had to wait in the asylum procedure. Yet he did not just do nothing. Because he spoke English well, he started volunteering as an interpreter at
When he received his residence permit, he and his wife moved to Haarlem. Alaa had just gotten married at the time. In Haarlem, he quickly passed his
Because Alaa found social work interesting, he remained active as a volunteer. "I did volunteer work alongside my studies. That helped to improve my Dutch as well as build a network." For example, he also worked at the Bloemendaal municipality on one day. "My goal was not only to earn money, but above all to gain experience."
Finding paid employment is difficult
Finding a job was not easy. Alaa: "I applied for a lot, but I was often rejected. Still, I did not give up. I kept hoping."
One day Alaa had 3 job interviews and got 3 positive responses. "That was a surprise. I got to choose for myself! I chose a full-time job. Now I work as an employment coach."
He proudly explains, "I now work with 5 municipalities and I help newcomers find work. The best moment was when I worked with my old employment coach from Haarlem. I used to get coaching, now I give it myself. That feels special."
Being proactive and building a network is the most important factor
According to Alaa, having a network is very important when it comes to finding a job. During corona, he started a group to run errands for elderly people who did not dare to go out. "One woman was very grateful that I helped her father. Later she helped me get a job again," says Alaa.
Alaa also taught Arabic to people who wanted to learn the language. "I had thought of that myself and it was a great experience." He also volunteers with the SchuldHulpMaatje foundation, where he helps people with debts.
In Haarlem, he directs the Stichting Tulip en Jasmijn Foundation, which organises Arabic lessons and activities for children and newcomers. Alaa also worked at the Red Cross receiving Ukrainian refugees in Amsterdam. "I could really understand their situation because I experienced war myself."
Never stop learning
Despite the obstacles, Alaa always keeps looking ahead. "I attend training courses and workshops. Social work is a broad and interesting field. I also want to take the Jobcoach training course to develop further."
Smiling, he repeats, "You need to be proactive to integrate in a new country. You have to seek opportunities, keep learning and never give up."