Damilola Osoka photographed at Espresso House.
Damilola is not well (she has a bad cold) but is very happy to talk to Norran English again.
–The reaction to the Norran article was incredible. It was almost overwhelming. I had so many people contact me offering help.
Among those Damilola was most grateful to was Amanda Herzog (a consultant who helps internationals find jobs in Sweden) who messaged her on LinkedIn, and gave her some free resources, Evelyn Hamilton CEO at Transcom, who put Damilola in touch with her HR man, to arrange an interview, and a woman, Ledz Warg, on Facebook who posted her relevant job links and even offered to help her to move should the worst happen.
But Damilola smiles most as she recalls what turns out to have been the most important call.
– It was Anna-Klara Granstrand from Skellefteå municipality. I think, after seeing the Norran English article, they must have decided to read an earlier application I sent them. It was for a role in communications combined with learning Swedish. And they ended up offering it to me! So, I think once the work visa is sorted out I'll start some time in spring. I owe a huge "thank you" to Skellefteå municipality.
Damilola feels like she's had a massive and much-needed life change.
– Career-wise, I’m now on the right path. I’m open to learning. I’m open to bringing what I’ve learned to the table. I'm ready.
But all of this nearly didn't happen. Before reaching out to Norran English editor, Paul, on LinkedIn, Damilola was worried about telling her story.
– My friend Adesola, told me to contact Norran. "You should reach out to Paul," she said.
– But I wasn't sure I wanted my kids to be seen. And an interview would also make it obvious that I was divorced. What would people think of me? But I made myself do it.
After the Norran interview, Damilola felt more confident.
– Someone said to me, "You do know this will always be on the internet?”
But Damilola replied:
– Did I shake my bum-bum? No! Did I steal? No! What did I do? I simply asked for a job to help feed my children.
She has words of advice to others in similar situations.
Damilola Osoka photographed at Espresso House.
Do not be afraid to use what you have. Use your network. You must try everything possible. Try and fail: it’s better than not trying at all.
And she has kind words for Norran English.
– You guys are doing an amazing job. I really appreciate Paul’s confidence. The way he challenged the migration minister in that open letter was inspiring. "You had just ONE job", he wrote.
Damilola laughs.
– Yeah, that was so good. That kind of thing gives you confidence that you are really behind us.
– Honestly, if not for you guys, we’d be on our way out of Skellefteå.