Yes, you read that right—I am DRAINED.
But before you assume exhaustion, let me clarify: I am Dedicated, Resilient, Ambitious, Inspired, Never Giving up, Empowered, and Determined.
That doesn’t mean it’s been easy. In fact, defining myself with these words still feels like a stretch. But when I look back, I like to think I’ve at least tried to embody them.
Because after a year of relentless effort, I finally landed my first job in Finland.
The Journey I Never Expected
I never thought it would take this long. I’ve always seen myself as adaptable, open to learning, and willing to grow. But this? This was a test of everything I had—and more.
After a month of applications, I was already worried. I remember telling Prof. Elikem Nutifafa Kuenyehia how tough it was, how I had already applied to so many jobs and faced rejection after rejection. His response?
“Ignore the narrative. Create your own. Be positive.”
That was just after one month. Little did I know it would take me a full year.
I’ve seen statistics on job markets, but personally, I don’t trust them. Not because they aren’t valid, but because I believe that sometimes, landing a job isn’t just about the numbers. It’s not only about how long you’ve been here, how many jobs you’ve applied for, or how many interviews you’ve had. These are all important factors, but in the end, things can happen in ways you don’t expect.
For me, I can’t even tell you how many jobs I applied for—I stopped counting. But my CV folder tells me I’ve tailored over 296 versions for different roles. I had 15 interviews, including three where I was headhunted on Linkedin. Each of these experiences provided valuable lessons, helping me refine my approach and improve along the way. They reminded me that the issue wasn’t me—my skills were valued, and I was capable.
I also took part in Capgemini’s Get Included program through the Spouse Program, which I’m incredibly grateful for. That experience was truly transformative because it opened my eyes to working life culture in Finland and how things operate in a professional setting here. The opportunity to interact with consultants, heads, and directors, and to build meaningful and genuine connections while receiving guidance even after the program ended gave me key insights. It reaffirmed the flat hierarchy in Finland, which in turn gave me the confidence that I possessed all the skills necessary to succeed. And then there were learning opportunities to upskill and get certifications within our various fields, making it a truly complete and tailored program and experience
More Than Just Applications
But beyond the numbers, it took more than applications. It took showing up, even when I felt like I wasn’t ready. It took taking chances, being bold, brave, and endlessly patient. It meant listening to different perspectives, trying new and unfamiliar things, and making myself available in ways I never imagined.
It took sleepless nights, wavering confidence, and pushing through moments of doubt with whatever strength I could find. I wish I had documented all the things I did just to keep moving forward, but the truth is—I don’t even remember them all.
At the time I landed my job, I was also engaged in the Blue Road Academy x Accenture Salesforce training program, further expanding my technical knowledge and professional network. This continuous investment in learning and growth, played a key role not just in equipping me with new skills, but in keeping me engaged, adaptable, and open to new opportunities.
The People Who Kept Me Going
It wasn’t just me. I didn’t do this alone.
First and foremost, as a Christian and strong believer in the faith, GOD has been my source of strength through it all
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us to him be all glory, honor and praise”__Ephesians 3:20
It took my wife’s unwavering support, my family’s belief in me, and my mentors’ and coaches’ guidance. It took my friends’ encouragement, my acquaintances’ insights, and even small acts of kindness from strangers. Every person who offered a thread of hope, a nugget of advice, or an opportunity—even one that seemed like it was hanging by a thread—helped me keep going.
And some moments in this journey kept me grounded and fulfilled in ways that a job alone couldn’t. Setting up FinanceTalks Finland and hosting our first event with Nordea, with the incredible support of the amazing people at The City of Espoo’s Espoo Talent Hub, gave me a sense of purpose beyond the job hunt. Being part of a data analysis project with Think Africa and DataHuone reminded me of the value I could bring, even before securing employment. These moments mattered. They kept me moving.
So, What’s the Formula?
Honestly? I don’t know.
I can’t tell you the exact combination of things that made this happen. But I can tell you that it required resilience, grace, grit, and maybe a sprinkle of luck. Maybe that’s all it ever takes. Or maybe it’s something else entirely.
What I do know is this:
I am DRAINED.
Not because the journey has left me exhausted—but because it has defined me in ways I never imagined.
I still haven’t fully expressed my happiness or excitement about landing this job. Maybe that will come later. But for now, I just figured I’d put these thoughts out there—because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the journey itself is just as important as the destination.
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This blogpost was written by Kwabena Asante and originally published on his LinkedIn profile. We repost his text to Think Africa’s blog with Kwabena’s permission.
