I recently had the chance to interview Safwat, a 32-year-old Egyptian man who, like many immigrants, is navigating life in Finland (after leaving behind his career as a professional footballer). His story provides a unique lens on how sports, culture, and identity play a role in the integration process.
Safwat described his initial experience in Finland as a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. “Finland is very different from Egypt,” he said. The cold climate, reserved nature of the people, and unfamiliar language made it difficult for him to adjust at first. Finnish, in particular, proved to be a tough challenge. “It’s hard to learn a language that’s so different from Arabic,” he explained. Although Safwat has been taking language courses, he admits it’s a slow process, and it has affected his ability to fully immerse himself in finnish society.
Despite these challenges, Safwat has found areas where integration has been smoother. Like in many parts of the world, football is a common language, and Safwat has been able to connect with locals through the sport. Although no longer playing professionally, he participates in local football clubs, where he has found a sense of belonging. “Football helps me feel at home, no matter where I am,” Safwat said with a smile. The sport has allowed him to bond with Finns and other immigrants, bridging cultural and language barriers.
However, when it comes to feeling at home in Finland, Safwat feels a mix of emotions. He appreciates the safety and stability the country offers, but adjusting to the Finnish way of life (particularly the quieter, more individualistic culture) has been an ongoing process. “In Egypt, we are more social, always surrounded by family and friends. Here, people value their personal space more,” he reflected. Over time, Safwat has grown more comfortable with this difference, but it remains a notable cultural adjustment.
Reflecting on Safwat’s journey, I believe that integration is a multi-faceted process. While Safwat has found some ease through football and government support, more could be done to help immigrants like him feel more connected to their new environment. Community-based initiatives that encourage interaction between locals and immigrants, especially through shared interests like sports, could help foster a stronger sense of belonging.
Additionally, facilitating faster language acquisition and offering social spaces where immigrants can practice Finnish in real-world settings would be beneficial. Safwat’s story also highlights how integration impacts identity, he is no longer solely defined by his career as a footballer but is learning to blend his Egyptian roots with his new life in Finland.
In conclusion, Safwat’s experience shows that while structural support is essential, social integration plays a crucial role in making immigrants feel at home. By embracing both his past as a professional athlete and his future in Finland, Safwat’s journey illustrates the resilience required to adapt to a new culture while holding on to one's original identity.