An interview with temporary worker James. A refugee from Ukraine | Lonely

An interview with temporary worker James. A refugee from Ukraine

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Interview

29

October

2025

5 min reading time

Recently we visited James' workshop. James had to flee to the Netherlands because of the war in Ukraine. Before that he studied in Kiev for his master's degree, but he could not complete it. This left him without a diploma. He didn't feel like sitting still and soon found himself at sorting company RSC Schiphol. There, partly thanks to Doorzaam, he obtained an mbo certificate.

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Table of contents

Born Akintoye in Nigeria, James was still studying in Ukraine four years ago to get his master's degree. When Russia suddenly invaded the country, he had to flee. He ended up in the Netherlands, with no studies, no job.

Despite his obstacles, James got to work on his development. With the help of his employment agency and Lonesome.

"While working, James became very curious about the whole work process. 'Why are we doing this?' 'Why are we doing it this way?' And that's a big win." says his temp Matthijs Knippen of YourSelect.

James has been working at an electronics sorting company for several years now. But he wanted to learn more about the entire logistics process at his employer. With Doorzaam's reimbursements, he was able to further develop his skills.

Interview with James

We have translated the English interview into Dutch

What was the reason for you to take this course?

Sometimes I didn't understand parts of my work very well. I often had questions, "Oh, what is this? Can you explain this?' I saw this track as an important opportunity for my future!

What has this trajectory given you?

I learned a lot. I learned a lot because before this I often saw things I didn't understand. The course explained a lot to me and taught me a lot about logistics. I am a lot more confident now. I now know what I want with my career and I am very happy that I have something on paper about my knowledge about logistics.

What would you like to say to other temps?

Take this opportunity because you will learn a lot. I am a lot more confident now and have something on paper that shows what I can do.

Would you also like to develop yourself further?

We offer different compensation for the development of people working as temporary workers. You can find out which allowance best suits your situation by taking our quiz. Within a minute you will know which allowance you can apply for.

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