English
Dansk
Azadeh, who is a trained nurse, came to Denmark from Iran in August 2024. In a short time, she has learned Danish, worked as a volunteer in a second-hand shop, secured a permanent position as a social and health care helper (SOSU helper) at Toftebo in Herning, and has now started her authorization process – an important step toward her dream of working as a nurse in Denmark. We spoke with Azadeh to learn what she has done to come so far so quickly.
Your volunteer work in a second-hand shop
How did you get the job?
When I had just arrived in Denmark, my language school teacher suggested that I do volunteer work to practice the language and gain some work experience. I walked into a second-hand shop, and they welcomed me right away.
Why did you apply?
I wanted to improve my Danish, learn about the culture, and gain experience in a Danish work environment. It also gave me more confidence.
What did you learn?
I learned to speak with customers in Danish, collaborate in a team, and understand Danish work culture. It was a very valuable experience for me.
How long and how many hours?
I worked there for about four months, typically 6–8 hours per week.
Your journey at Toftebo – from temp to permanent employee
How did you get the job?
A friend told me that Toftebo was looking for staff. I sent my CV, was invited to an interview, and was hired as a temporary worker.
Why did you apply?
I am a trained nurse and wanted to return to elderly care and gain practical experience, even though I did not yet have my authorization.
What did you learn?
I learned about elderly care in Denmark, hygiene regulations, documentation, and how to work in a multidisciplinary team. At the same time, my Danish improved very quickly through contact with residents and colleagues.
How long and how many hours?
• First, I worked for three months as a temporary worker.
• Then I became a substitute with more regular shifts, about 37 hours per week.
• After another three months, I was permanently employed as a SOSU helper.
How the job has developed your Danish language
Working at Toftebo has had the greatest impact on my Danish.
My colleagues always help me patiently—they explain words, correct my sentences in a kind way, and support me in improving.
I also kept a small notebook where I wrote down new words and expressions every day.
The daily contact with both residents and colleagues has made me much more confident speaking Danish.
Your permanent position and the start of your authorization
After a few months of work, my manager was very satisfied with my performance. She could see that I was responsible, learned quickly, and had good contact with the residents. Therefore, I was permanently employed as a SOSU helper.
The good news is that I started my authorization process on January 15. My manager is helping me with it. She reviews the paperwork with me, helps with the documents, and adjusts my work schedule so I can prepare for courses and exams.
I am very happy with the support I receive at my workplace.
What are the three best things about your job?
- It means a lot to me that I can help and make a difference for the residents.
- My colleagues are incredibly kind, supportive, and warm—like a small family.
- I learn something new every day and feel that I am developing in my work.
If you would like to add something…
I am proud of the journey I have been through. It was not easy to start over in a new country, but with patience, hard work, and support from those around me, I now have a job I truly enjoy. I hope to receive my authorization soon and work as a nurse in Denmark.