Hüseyin is building a future in construction

Four years ago, Hüseyin fled to the Netherlands with his family. Werkse! He guided him through a work-study program at Bouwpraktijk, where he received his diploma in early December. "My dream is to grow in the construction sector and eventually start my own business." 

When Hüseyin arrived in the Netherlands, there were many things to arrange before he could start looking for work. "Everything in the Netherlands was new. I had to learn the language and integrate." Only after he and his family were settled could Hüseyin think about work. "I already had experience in the construction industry and wanted to work with my hands again, but I didn't yet know exactly what was possible in the Netherlands. Werkse! helped me with this in a very personal way. They listened to my wishes and took my situation into account. I felt taken seriously throughout the entire process, and that gave me a lot of self-confidence.

Sawing, carpentry, painting
At Bouwpraktijk, Hüseyin learned both the practical and theoretical aspects of working in the Dutch construction industry. "In twelve weeks, I learned sawing, carpentry, painting, installation, tiling, and demolition—everything that's useful in construction." The group he worked with consisted largely of people who hadn't lived in the Netherlands long. "It was great to get tips about building methods in other countries. But it was also complicated at times. Every culture has its own challenges, and working in construction can be dangerous. It's really important to understand each other well."

Hüseyin enjoys painting the most. "I'm interested in renovating houses and woodworking. Eventually, I want to start my own business in that field, but first, I'm trying to get a job at Groenenboom painting company through the Construction Practice and gain more experience."

Giving something back to the Netherlands
Working in construction isn't Hüseyin's only passion. "When I first moved to Delft, I wanted to practice the language and contribute to society. That's why I started volunteering at De Papaver, where I helped with things like removing paving stones from gardens. I still work there. The Netherlands opened its doors to me and my family, and this is my way of giving back."