Once in the Netherlands, Hadis finds herself in an unknown labor market, with unwritten rules and a culture that is new to her. She knows: if I want to find my place, I need someone to show me the way. She discovered DUO for a JOB via Instagram: “I never thought that click would change my life.”
She will be paired with Wim, a new mentor who worked at Vopak for years. It soon becomes clear: these two speak each other's language — not only figuratively, but also professionally. Wim knows the sector inside and out and offers Hadis exactly what she needs: structure, direction and, above all, trust. “Just knowing that my mentor is there makes me feel safe,” says Hadis.
Together, they are working on her resume and applications. Hadis learns about the Dutch work culture, about her own qualities and about the importance of making your voice heard. “I learned that if you don't say what you want, people can't help you either.” Then Hadis sees a vacancy for an internship at Vopak. She applies independently, and successfully: Hadis is hired!
What started as a mentoring process has grown into a collaboration and a close relationship. “Sometimes Wim feels like a father figure who keeps an eye on things. That feels safe,” says Hadis. Wim was visibly moved by her words. “We'll stay in touch anyway,” he says. “You know where to find me.”
Hadis would like to stay with Vopak after her internship. She concludes with a wish: “I hope I can do this for someone else one day. Giving time is such a big gift.”
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