“We came here for temporary work, but the Netherlands became our home.” 

For Pamela and her mother, Renata Karczewska, Poland was their home—a place where they had built their lives in the small town of Złocieniec in West Pomerania—before they decided to start a new chapter in the Netherlands. 
In 2009, Renata decided to move to the Netherlands, initially just for a few months to take on temporary work. Life in Poland brought with it many uncertainties, especially with a family and young children. The idea was simple: earn some money temporarily, go back home, and get on with life. But as is often the case with big leaps into the unknown, things turned out a little differently than planned. 

“At first, I thought I might stay for two or three months,” Renata says. “But I fell in love with the Netherlands, the people, the work, and the freedom you have here. And then I decided to stay.” 

Seven years later, her daughter Pamela followed, just 18 years old and fresh out of high school. Her first real job was at Flexspecialisten. “I also thought I’d only stay for a short while, but the Netherlands immediately felt like a place where I could grow and feel at home,” says Pamela. “I came here with no work experience, no papers, and yet they saw my potential.” 

A fresh start in a new country 

Pamela recalls her first impressions of the Netherlands: open, friendly people, a society that invites you to live rather than just survive. “In Poland, life often revolves around work and daily worries. Here, people have time for each other, for their families, and for fun,” she says. 

The difference goes beyond working hours or free time. Practical matters such as rent, electricity, mortgages, and healthcare also provide a stability that is often lacking in Poland. “In Poland, you might pay 1,700 zloty one month and suddenly 3,000 the next. Here, you have guarantees; here, you know where you stand,” Renata explains. 

The result: a sense of freedom and security that helped the whole family build a life in the Netherlands. Pamela: “We worked hard, and that finally allowed us to buy a house and create a home of our own. That’s a huge step toward independence and happiness.” 

Growth and Opportunities at Flexspecialisten 

Pamela started as a production worker, the first step in her career. Within a few months, Flexspecialisten recognized her potential. “They saw that I had more to offer,” says Pamela. “When I was eighteen, I was given the opportunity to become a coordinator. Without experience, without qualifications—just based on what they saw in my work ethic and motivation. Something that would be unthinkable in Poland.” 

Today, Pamela Flexspecialisten at Flexspecialisten the role of Flex Support: a key internal position in which she mentors temporary staff, answers questions, and offers support regarding both work and life in the Netherlands. “I really feel needed,” she says. “Temporary staff know they can come to me, and that gives me energy and a sense of pride.” 

Her mother, Renata, previously worked as a facility manager and oversaw various locations. Together, they have made impressive strides, with trust, responsibility, and growth at the core of their work. Flexspecialisten potential, provides opportunities, and helps people grow. That’s what makes the difference,” says Renata. 

Cultural Differences and Integration 

Moving to a new country isn’t without its challenges. The Karczewskas quickly noticed the differences between Dutch and Polish culture. “Dutch people are more open, friendlier, and more helpful. They aren’t as reserved or distrustful,” says Pamela. “At work, you can laugh, listen to music, and sometimes even dance. You don’t see that happening very often in Poland.” 

Working in an international environment at Flexspecialisten also Flexspecialisten the opportunity to learn from colleagues from various countries. “We learn not only about work, but also about the customs, traditions, and culture of other countries. That enriches our lives, not just our work,” adds Renata. 

Trust and loyalty 

What Pamela and Renata appreciate most about Flexspecialisten is the trust they’re given and the personal approach. “They really see you as a person, not just a number,” says Pamela. The company offers support, even during difficult personal times. When Pamela’s father passed away, her colleagues and management were there to offer help and support. “That makes the bond with Flexspecialisten than ever,” says Pamela. 

Their advice to newcomers is clear: “Be motivated, believe in yourself, take your time, and keep an open mind about the opportunities this country and the work offer.” 

Pride and the Future 

What makes Pamela and Renata most proud? “Our home, our family, and what we’ve achieved together,” says Pamela. “But also my career. Going from a production worker to Flex Support… I never would have expected that.” 

Renata adds:

“The most important thing is that we feel at home here. The Netherlands has become our home, and that gives us peace of mind, security, and happiness.” 

Their story is an inspiring example of courage, perseverance, and the willingness to seize opportunities. It shows that with the right motivation and an open mind, a new country isn’t just a place to work, but a place to grow, thrive, and build a life that brings you both happiness and pride. 

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