News and events

Filter

Stories

One Sum­mer Changed Every­thing: Fiza­’s Jour­ney from Soft­ware Engi­neer­ing Stu­dent to Café Own­er in Oulu

Fiza, a Pakistani student pursuing a master’s degree in software engineering at the University of Oulu, never imagined that a summer job would lead her to entrepreneurship.

Stories

From the Himalayas to the Heart of Oulu: Pooja’s Sto­ry of Belong­ing and Becom­ing

Pooja Dahal is a researcher and nature enthusiast who moved from Nepal to Oulu, carrying with her resilience, curiosity, and a belief in new beginnings.

Stories

“Here I Breathe Dif­fer­ent­ly” – Rana’s Jour­ney from Istan­bul to Oulu

Rana Toro, originally from Istanbul, first came to Oulu as an exchange student and unexpectedly found a place that felt like home. Through her journey from student life to working in Oulu, she discovered the beauty of nature and the quiet sense of community the city offers. As she describes it, “Oulu has become a place where I breathe differently.”

Stories

“45 Kilo­me­tres on Foot in One Day” – How Bhu­pen­der Dis­cov­ers Oulu Step by Step

What does Oulu look like when you slow down? For Bhupender Singh, the answer lies in walking – a simple habit that has shaped his everyday life.

Stories

Shova’s Jour­ney from Bangladesh to Oulu as an Inter­na­tion­al Stu­dent

Nusrat Shova, a media and communication enthusiast, is pursuing her Master's at the University of Oulu. She is also working as an intern at International House Oulu.

Stories

A Euro­vi­sion Spark That Start­ed It All – Könül’s Jour­ney from Baku to Oulu

Könül Ahmadzada, 32, is working International Affairs at the University of Oulu. Originally from Azerbaijan, she moved to Oulu 3 years ago. Today, she balances a meaningful international career with family life and creativity.

Stories

Choos­ing the North: An Engineer’s Leap into Life in Oulu

Fatema Jannat travelled 6,000 kilometres to Oulu, Finland seeking challenge – and found a home where safety, equality, and curiosity shaped her new beginning.

Stories

“Work–Life Bal­ance in Fin­land Is the Best in the World” – Inside Visidon

Visidon thrives on diversity and global talent. Watch the video to see what everyday work culture is like at Visidon.

Stories

From Viet­nam to Oulu: Vivi’s Engi­neer­ing Stu­dent Jour­ney

Vivi came from the bustle of Vietnam to the calm of Oulu, where student life feels fun. She studies Computer Science and Engineering, but just as often cycles, dances, and builds connections.

Stories

Nelson’s Bliss­ful Tran­si­tion to Life in Oulu

Nelson Otieno swapped the fast-paced streets of Nairobi for the calm and crisp air of Oulu, and he hasn’t looked back since. A

Stories

Lan­guages of the Heart: Cristina’s Jour­ney to Fin­land 

Cristina’s journey is one of transformation, curiosity, and quiet courage. A linguist turned developer, she has embraced the unfamiliar with a spirit of exploration and a deep reverence for language, nature, and community.