Hello! Hani Marashi
Hello Hani, you came to Sweden from Syria in 2014, how did you end up at Lantmännen Machinery?
A: It started when I met a pensioner in a language café. He became my mentor and advised me to seek a training course to become a vehicle mechanic. Through the training, I got the chance to practice at Lantmännen and then I got a job there. The internship was a completely new experience for me, but it was a good way to get into the workplace.
Did you and your family face a tough start in Sweden?
A: Yes, we were told that my daughter, who was four at the time, had a brain tumour. We didn't know the language but saw many doctors during 18 difficult months. I was very stressed about the finances and trying to take care of my family and at the same time develop in Sweden. But it went well with my daughter, who is now eleven years old. She is still undergoing treatment and is in a special class. My family and my little girl inspired me so much to not give up when things felt difficult.
What did you work with in Syria?
A: I first studied to become a mechanic and then I repaired machines in, among other places, my father's factory. Here in Sweden, it is a different technical system, but I have a good foundation, so learning the job
has gone well.
What do you think is the most difficult?
A: At work I meet many farmers, who speak both Scanian and Småland, and understanding different dialects can also be difficult. But it's fun and you
learn a lot.
What is the biggest difference of working life in Sweden compared with in Syria?
A: How people think about the work environment and safety. Here you also get the chance to develop. There are new technologies and new machines all the time. It's a lot of fun, I really enjoy it!
Fact box
Hani Marashi, 45 year old and born in Damascus in Syria
LIVES: Växjö, Sweden
FAMILY: Wife and three children.
WHAT YOU DO AT LANTMÄNNEN: Technologies/mechanics at Lantmännen Maskin.
WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT WORKING AT LANTMÄNNEN: That you can constantly learn new things and develop in your profession.
LEISURE TIME INTERESTS: Cycle with the family and go for walks with my daughter. Work on old cars.