Olena found a job in Amsterdam

Artikel uit het Parool

‘I have registered myself at the Chamber of Commerce’

Olena Moroz (40) has been a hairdresser for four years, and has now been working at Snap Hair Studio in the centre for five weeks.

“On February 24, I was woken up at 5:30 am to the sound of bombs. We immediately put on our clothes and went to Moldova. My grandmother lives there. We stayed with her for two weeks. Fortunately my husband was still able to come along; on the first day of the war, men were still allowed to leave the country, but the following day that was no longer possible.

A friend of mine in the Netherlands, Kanna, told me to come here and she could arrange work for me. First I slept every night in a different country: Romania, Hungary and then we could continue to the Netherlands with the help of Fastlane Ukraine.

I have found a house in Spierdijk. My two daughters, ages 12 and 6, go to school here in the morning, and take online classes in Ukrainian in the afternoon. I have now registered with the Chamber of Commerce, because I have no idea when I can return to Ukraine, although I want to as soon as possible.

Working makes sure I don't think about what it's like at home. Moreover, I like to make people happy with their new haircut. It is easy and rewarding work. I find the Dutch very hospitable.”