“My goal is to own my own restaurant“
Brian Githaiga Migwi, graduated in October from Saimaa Vocational College Sampo’s restaurant and catering services as a cook. Brian is originally from Kenya and has been studying in Sampo’s group of international students in Lappeenranta for a year to complement his previous education and work experience in the field.
“Time has gone really fast and the training has been really good.”
Brian has enjoyed his time in Finland and he has also made new friends around the world.
In addition to Finns, I have met students from countries such as Thailand, Ukraine and Russia. It was nice to get to know my classmates, and we’ve also helped each other with our studies, says Brian.
The studies at Sampo included not only theoretical studies and workplace learning, but also getting to know the Finnish language and culture. Brian has only good things to say about his time at Sampo and his teachers – support and encouragement were always available when he needed it.
If there have been problems or you don’t understand something, you can just ask and they will help you. It makes everything run more smoothly, he says.
Brian has travelled and lived in some major European cities, but he has been impressed by the Lappeenranta area and he plans to stay here for the time being. Brian says he has learned a lot from the Finnish working culture, where community is also important.
The workplace has been like a family, and that makes it a pleasant place to work. Working in the kitchen also feels easier here in Finland than in Kenya, Brian says.
According to him, Finnish and Kenyan cuisine is quite similar, although Brian thinks the Finns eat a bit healthier. One of his favourite dishes is salmon served with pesto sauce and mashed potatoes.
At the moment Brian wants to focus on work and gaining experience, but his plans for the future are admirable.
“In five years’ time I’d like to own my own restaurant”, he reveals.