Recently moved to Spain from Finland is Marja. She believes that whilst luck may have landed her here, it's the type of luck that happens when preparation meets opportunity. Read her story.

Why Spain?

Spain and southern Europe has been calling my name for years. It has been a dream of mine for so long. There have been times when I almost lost my faith to be able to make it. But since I have learned to believe that things in life do happen for a reason, I trusted that some day I will be living in Spain. So, now I am. Six weeks old newcomer in Spain.

In addition to my personal plan, luckily the company I work for wanted to start operations in Costa del Sol and Fuengirola.  We are a small company, out-patient clinic, providing services for people and their families, who struggle with addictions. Helping women is especially close to my heart since I know how hard it is to even to ask for help. I also know that it is possible to recover. That is the message I want to share.

Tell us about your new home

Fuengirola was the reasonable choice, mostly because of the Finnish society here. The atmosphere here is so energetic and positive. Met already so many brave people who have taken the “frightening” leap to the unknown, business wise or personally. Business friendly, easy to get a round and the weather, of course. Beats Scandinavian winter, for sure.

What was the biggest challenge for your move?

The biggest challenge was to trust that I can make it here and leave everything what I had in Finland. I am blessed for having good people around me and believing in me and I know that by making this move I do not lose anything but I gain a lot.

What is your advice for women thinking about making the move?

Go for it. Find out as much as you can about the living here from different sources. If it FEELS right for you, then it most likely IS right for you. 

Tell us about your life in Spain?

Since I have just recently moved here, my days have been filled with work. Meeting people, networking, organizing events, etc. basically telling people about my purpose here. And of course, I have been able to do the actual counselling. I am still very much involved in the clinic work back in Finland, now mostly remote online. My goal is to reach out to women who feel themselves hopeless and stuck while suffering from addictions (chemical, gambling, food addictions or co-dependency). 

Something you are grateful for?

I am grateful every day for having recovered from a devastating disease and for being healthy. And of course for this opportunity to share my story here today. Thank You!

Your special dinner party – who would you invite?

Joanna and Kristin from my other home country, Norway. Joanna had a healing role during my difficult years and unfortunately we meet far to seldom. Kristin for teaching me not to fear ageing. Minna Canth (1844-97) for believing in doing your own thing and knowing in your heart that it is the right thing to do, even when the world says it’s not. Also, I’d invite some young activist to educate me of their view of the world. A good meal with fish would be served. And strawberries with cream!

What’s your secret weapon?

Accepting the things I cannot change and having courage to change the things I can. 

Favourite saying?

“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity” – Seneca

One thing you had to bring with you to Spain?

My Journal. Actually, to be quite honest – it is my smart phone. 

Favourite Book?

Have so many favourite  books! The first ones that came to my mind areThe Napolitan Novels by Elena Ferrante.  The way the friendship is portrayed enthralled me. 

Something you would tell your younger self?

Trust in life and yourself. Respect yourself first and that way you will be able to respect others. 

How can we find out more?

Connect on linked https://www.linkedin.com/in/marja-kanu

And our website: www.avominne.fi

Thank you Marja!

If you want us to read your story, fill out the online questionnaire here