Her path to Finland has been far from straightforward. Due to the politically unstable situation in Myanmar, Thandar has had to reinvent herself professionally multiple times. Her past roles include insurance sales agent, beauty professional, fashion designer, and seamstress – and she has even run her own business.

“But above all, I’m a mother,” she says. “I want to ensure a good life for my daughter.”

A new beginning inspired by family

Three years ago, Thandar’s daughter moved to Finland to study engineering at JAMK University of Applied Sciences. During a visit, Thandar discovered a vocational programme in English offered by Gradia and decided to apply.
“I felt truly lucky when I was accepted.”

Starting out wasn’t easy. The new field and working in a Finnish-speaking environment felt unfamiliar and outside her comfort zone.

“I’ve always cooked at home, but working in a restaurant was unfamiliar. I made up my mind to learn everything I could”, she says with a smile.

Her class includes 16 students from around the world. The international atmosphere has brought friendship and a sense of community. Thandar fondly recalls participating in the campus’s International Food Day, where she served dishes from her culture: crispy onion rings with tamarind sauce and coconut jelly.

“I was nervous, but people really liked the food.”

Breaking the myth of quiet Finns

Currently, Thandar is completing a seven-week on-the-job learning period at Gradia’s Priimus campus restaurant. She’s gained experience in kitchen work and buffet service.

“I’ve had the chance to get to know Finnish people, and the stereotype that Finns are quiet doesn’t hold true. Everyone has been incredibly friendly and helpful.”

Despite not yet being fluent in Finnish, she has formed genuine connections and experienced strong teamwork.
Thandar deeply values the support of her teachers and the quality of education.

“The teachers are always available, answer questions, and encourage us. It’s okay to make mistakes – we’re here to learn.”

A world-class education system

The modern facilities at the Priimus campus, the sense of community, and Thandar was impressed by how long many staff members have been part of the community. Students have also had the opportunity to meet employers and explore career paths through campus events.

The chef training programme combines food preparation, nutrition, hygiene, customer service, and practical math skills like measurements and portion calculations. Thandar had heard that Finland’s education system is among the best in the world.

“Now I’ve seen it for myself. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly what makes it so good. The teaching is practical and diverse, the teachers are skilled and kind."

"I feel I’m getting everything I need to move forward in my career.”

She also appreciates the free school meals and breakfast provided to students at Gradia.

Dreaming of a future in the kitchen – and in fashion

Thandar studies also Finnish at Jyväskylä Upper Secondary School for Adults, which is part of Gradia. Her dream is to work as a chef in Finland.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s a big or small restaurant – as long as I get to do this work.”

If all goes well, Thandar hopes to one day combine her culinary career with her passion for fashion design.

“I’d love to design and sell my own clothes in Finland, too. Creativity and craftsmanship connect all my previous professions – and they’re needed in the kitchen as well.”