Anna Kolata

Anna Kolata moved to Finland in 2014. She enjoys living in the city and gets to do diverse work. Read about everything Anna gets to do during her working day.

The City of Hämeenlinna has been my employer since 2018. Initially, I worked as a school assistant in various schools, as I am also a qualified English teacher. In 2019, I started working in International Resident Services of Hämeenlinna. My job description has evolved over the years according to my expertise. I began as a content creator and adviser for the Myintegration.fi website, and today I work as a mentor in the Opin training programme, which is part of the Quickly to Work project.

What made you apply to work for the City of Hämeenlinna?

I moved to Hämeenlinna in 2014 and fell in love with the city immediately. I developed a strong feeling that I wanted to be part of this community through work as well. I wanted to do work through which I could give something back to this city that had become so important to me.

What is your current job description?

As a mentor, my tasks are very diverse. I help international residents find their own path in Hämeenlinna. My work includes supporting Finnish language learning and guiding people toward further education, including initiating the degree recognition process when necessary.

A significant part of my work is civic orientation: I teach about Finnish culture, history, everyday practices and traditions. For example, we visit museums and explore local culture. My goal is to help international residents understand Finland.

What is the best part of your job? What is your work community like?

The best part is that I get to participate in building a strong society. I offer a helping hand to new arrivals so that it is easier for them to adapt to their new home country. I feel that I am doing impactful work. I also get to learn about different cultures and learn a lot about the world myself. It is also important that I get to develop my skills and shape my job responsibilities. In addition, I must say that I have the best team an employee could wish for. I am humbly grateful for this.

We have a very diverse work community. My team is international and open to diversity. We aim to strengthen the attractiveness of the City of Hämeenlinna and understand that diversity is strength and the future of Finland.

What is it like to work for the City of Hämeenlinna?

The work atmosphere is friendly and supportive. We value working together, respecting each other and the courage to try new solutions—without fear of mistakes.

How has the City of Hämeenlinna supported your professional development and career path?

I have been able to participate in training and study new things alongside my work. My supervisor has always encouraged me to develop in my career and supported me during my studies.

Tell us about a particularly memorable experience or achievement from your career in the city’s service.
I have accumulated many memorable experiences in my customer work. Sometimes I meet former customers and hear that I have made a big impact on their lives. Their feedback is invaluable.

Why should people apply to work for us?

If you want to participate in building and developing the services of the City of Hämeenlinna and work in a positive environment, you should apply to us. If Hämeenlinna is in your heart, come try it out and see for yourself that the city is a great workplace!