From different origins, heading towards the same destination… the Netherlands!
Working in the Netherlands is an opportunity that more and more healthcare professionals from different parts of the world are embracing, with the support of Vitae Professionals. Especially for nurses and healthcare assistants, this has been a very rewarding path in terms of professional growth and quality of life.
Today we bring you two testimonies from different people with similar experiences! The story of two nurses from distinct backgrounds, but with the same destination: the Netherlands. Avelina Antunes is Portuguese and Mario Salvati is Italian. Two individual journeys, but one shared decision.
Keep reading… and get inspired by what they each have to share 😊
The challenge of starting over
Many nurses look to theNetherlands not only for better working conditions but also for personal and professional growth. This was the case for Mario, who decided to leave Italy in search of new horizons:
“I worked in Italy for several years, but at some point, I felt stuck. I wanted more: new challenges, new experiences, an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone. One day I saw this ad on Facebook: ‘Do you want to become a nurse in the Netherlands?’ At first, it seemed crazy, almost like jumping into the unknown… but I thought: why not?”
Mario says that without Vitae, he probably would have given up on the bureaucracy even before packing his bags. The support he found in the team was essential:
“With Vitae, I didn’t just find an agency, I found people who truly supported me. They made everything simple when it all seemed complicated.”
Learning the language was also a challenge… but never impossible:
“Dutch… it’s not exactly the easiest language in the world. At first I thought: ‘This is impossible.’ But step by step, with good teachers and practice, I started to feel more confident. It’s not perfect, but I can communicate and that already feels like a victory.”
Today, Mario works with elderly people with dementia, a completely new experience in his career:
“At the beginning I was nervous, but now I see how much I learn every day. It’s a challenge, yes, but it also makes me grow – both as a nurse and as a person.”
And he leaves an encouraging message for those considering the same step:
“Looking back, I’d tell the guy who clicked that ad: ‘Go for it. Trust yourself. It’s not as scary as it seems, and it’s worth it.’ I don’t regret my choice for a second. And if you’re thinking of taking this step, remember: you won’t be alone 😊.”
Adaptingto a new life
Avelina also chose to move from Portugal to the Netherlands with the support ofVitae Professionals. For her, the experience has been marked by great work relationships and by discovering a beautiful country:
“Everything is going well 😊 I’ve adapted nicely. At my workplace things are also going smoothly. Of course, there’s always a language barrier, since I don’t master Dutch 100%, but I can communicate without major difficulties and build good relationships with those I care for.
The environment with colleagues has been very positive, they welcomed me warmly, and until today we always manage to understand each other.
Besides that, the Netherlands is a stunning country, I wasn’t expecting so much charm 😂. It rains more than in Portugal, that’s true, but life is very different. It hasn’t discouraged me 😂 I’m happy and very glad to be here.”
Avelina’s testimony shows that, even with some challenges, integration is possible… and very rewarding!
Two paths, one destination
Avelina and Mario chose different paths, but both found in the Netherlands an opportunity to grow, learn, and achieve their dreams. With courage, determination, and the support of Vitae Professionals, they showed that moving abroad can be much more than a professional decision: it can be a true new beginning in life.
If you are also looking for new challenges, better working conditions, and a fulfilling international experience, follow the example of these two nurses. The Netherlands could be your next destination.
