Kiitos Suomi & Bonjour Canada

As my journey in Finland comes to an end, I am filled with pride and gratitude. The last three years have introduced me to a unique culture filled with the strong spirit of 'Sisu', showing determination and resilience. The work culture here has been a lesson in valuing smart work over long hours, creating a balance between work and personal life.

This culture has personally taught me a lot. I learned the Finnish way of being pragmatic, the wonderful ability to listen, and the importance of taking moments of silence to reflect. These simple yet powerful lessons have changed how I approach challenges and aim for success in a balanced way. The focus on what's important and having meaningful talks rather than just a lot of words has been a big learning.

The beauty of Finland’s nature has been a joy to experience every day. The endless lakes, lovely islands, and bright summer days have been like a daily painting coming to life. (that all makes the dark days in november almost irrelevant). On the culinary front, the variety of fish dishes, particularly the salmon soup, will always hold a special place in my heart. Trying Uusi Peruna, the season’s first potatoes, and tasting Karjalanpiirakka, a type of Karelian pie, were delightful experiences into Finland’s food traditions.

The innovative mindset of the Finns is remarkable. In a country where fresh ideas are constantly embraced, it's the level of digitalization that stands out. This advanced digital approach integrates into every activity, making tasks not just easy but also efficient. It's clear that Finland's commitment to innovation and digital solutions is paving the way for a smarter and more streamlined future.

The healthcare system in Finland stands out for trying to give good healthcare to everyone. Yet, this goal also brings challenges, especially when it comes to introducing new solutions. This situation creates a good opportunity for public and private sectors to work together, which aligns well with our goals at Roche.

As I say goodbye to this fulfilling chapter, I feel a bit more Finn after this time spent together. The 'Sisu' spirit, the balanced work culture, the lovely landscapes, and the cheerful spirit of the Land of Santa have found a special place in my heart. I will take my learnings and love for Finland with me wherever I go.

Kiitos (thank you in Finnish), Finland, for being a great part of my journey!

Hello & Bonjour Canada

And now, a new adventure awaits in the second largest country worldwide, Canada. My heart is full of excitement to immerse myself into the Canadian way of life and to harvest similar learnings from its multicultural, welcoming, and innovative spirit.

Canada, with its amazing landscapes, from the Rocky Mountains to the Arctic Tundra, promises not only a visual treat but also a chance to explore and understand diverse ecosystems. I am looking forward to embracing the vibrant cultures and languages that weave the Canadian mosaic, where both English and French find harmony in daily life, creating a unique bilingual atmosphere.

Exploring the Canadian culinary landscape, renowned for its maple syrup and a rich selection of seafood will certainly be a delightful adventure. Moreover, with Canada being a pioneer in various scientific and technological fields, the prospect of observe and being a part of cutting-edge innovations in the healthcare sector is exciting.

I anticipate that the journey in Canada will be a beautiful piece of professional growth, cultural experiences, and new relationships. With an open heart and a curious mind, I am ready to write the next chapter, collecting every moment and experience that comes my way.

Kiitos Suomi & Hello/Bonjour Canada!

Matheus Vieira