Vantaa International Vibes: Vappu Edition Event Spotlights Mental Well-being and Coping Strategies During Job Search

Wellbeing Workshop during job search
In this interactive workshop, Hope highlighted that job hunting is more than updating CVs or submitting applications; it is an emotional and taxing journey significantly riddled with uncertainty and no end in sight. The job search process is not only about finding work—especially for immigrants. In Finland, many face additional barriers such as the non-recognition of education and experience, limited networks, unfamiliar systems and often times discrimination.  

"It is important to understand that job seeking is a comprehensive process that affects a person's identity, well-being, and resilience" 
Hope Makara
Mieli Without  Boarders

Beyond the practical challenges, the constant cycle of applications and rejections can chip away at one’s confidence, self-worth, and sense of belonging. It’s essential that employment and integration services recognize this human impact. Job seekers are more than their employment status or number of rejections—they are people with skills, value, and potential. Supporting them means acknowledging the whole person, not just the job-seeker.

That is why approaching your job-search wholistically means knowing how to manage disappointment and developing coping skills. In the workshop, Hope also emphasized on practical strategies to remain grounded and resilient, encouraging participants to shift their perspectives and recognize the important roles and values they hold in their lives beyond employment.

Despite the complexity of the topic, the workshop maintained a warm and supportive atmosphere, participants actively discussed the challenges they faced and shared effective personal coping mechanisms. 

Read More: 
MIELI Without Borders
aims to destigmatize and spread awareness about migrant mental health through community action. The association organizes workshops, peer-support groups, and clubs to promote social inclusion, well-being, and community. 

Services at Vantaa Employment Services  
The transition of employment services to the City of Vantaa has increased the city's responsibilities toward international residents. 

Petra Pulli, a specialist from the City of Vantaa, discussed available city services specifically aimed at international job seekers. The city offers comprehensive support in job application and CV preparation, career guidance, and assistance in identifying and accessing needed services. 

Petra encouraged international job seekers to proactively reach out to employment services, underscoring Vantaa’s commitment to workforce integration. 

Building Connections through Talent Vantaa
Matleena Vuola from Talent Vantaa emphasized the importance of fostering interactions between international job seekers and local employers. Talent Vantaa actively facilitates these connections through events like hackathons and workshops, integrating international expertise into the local economy and helping businesses attract diverse talent.

For more information, please visit:
Mieli Without Borders
Vantaa International Client Services
Talent Vantaa 

Business Vantaa connects local economic stakeholders, including Vantaa Entrepreneurs, YritysVantaa, Varia Vocational College, and the Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce, forming a robust network to support entrepreneurs. 

Written by
Laila Bröcker
laila.brocker@vantaa.fi

Blen Hailu
blen.hailu@vantaa.fi 

Business Vantaa