“Estonia has been home from the day I landed,” says Hira Wajahat Malik, a doctoral student and junior researcher at the Estonian Business School (EBS), who moved to Estonia two years ago in October. What she experienced and saw here quickly dispelled all the preconceptions she had about Estonia.
“I was expecting Estonia to be loud, not very clean, and difficult to integrate or connect with people without learning the language. I somehow had other European countries I have visited in mind and assumed Estonia would be like that too,” Hira recalls her first thoughts before moving here.
However, the warm welcome she received from EBS colleagues and other people she met proved otherwise. “On the contrary, I arrived in a young and innovative country that is bold and open to new ideas and has accepted me as one of its own. What I love about the culture here is people accept you and appreciate you for your intellect and the value and experience you bring to the table, regardless of where you are from,” she says.
Research for making a difference
In her home country, Pakistan, Hira worked as a partner at a consulting firm focused on impact and innovation. She collaborated with various organizations, businesses, development agencies like the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, and World Wildlife Fund, as well as governments. Projects she worked on were related to climate change, social innovation, and creating positive impact. Parallelly, Hira taught at a university and coached companies on sustainable business practices.
After more than ten years of intensive work in the consulting business, she felt it was time to pursue a doctoral degree. “While making applications I came across an opportunity at the Estonian Business School that matched my interests. When I was admitted for the program, it just seemed appropriate to make the move from Pakistan to Estonia,” she explains the motivation behind this life-changing decision.
In addition to her research, she now teaches at the Bachelors and Masters level and has already worked on different projects. For instance, she has had the opportunity to work on projects with organisations like Estonian Cleantech Association and RoheTiiger.
Support from friends and the state
“Sure it takes a bit of getting used to moving to a country that is 20 times smaller than your city,” she says, however, adding that the peace, safety, and healthy environment made it feel like home very soon.
She has received significant support in settling into her new home from colleagues and other Estonians—both locals and recent newcomers—but most of the information necessary for adapting came from the national adaptation program Settle in Estonia.
“While other expat friends were able to provide experiential input, following the process and instructions detailed through Integration Foundation and Settle in Estonia was the easiest way for me to get access to services and support I needed and adapt swiftly to life in Estonia,” she highlights the benefits of the program created for newcomers.
The power of learning the language
Hira started to learn Estonian via the adaptation program as well. She notes that being able to learn the language has empowered her significantly, whether it is trying to connect with her students or while travelling to cities outside of Tallinn where English may not be the preferred language of communication.
She recalls that her best experience was attending a doctoral conference that was in Estonian with simultaneous translation in English. “I found that I understood and enjoyed the talks more by listening to the speakers in Estonian rather than by translation. If it were not for the Settle in Estonia program it would not be possible.”
Hira encourages everyone moving to Estonia to actively participate in community life and not to be afraid to learn Estonian. “The best way to truly make the most of those opportunities and build a fulfilling life here is to give back as much as you receive. Giving back simply means putting your time, effort, and energy into the society you are joining. This isn't just about altruism; it's a powerful way to integrate, build connections, gain a deeper understanding of Estonian culture, and unlock the full potential of your experience,” she urges others on their adaptation journey.
Hira’s tips for a smooth adaptation in Estonia:
- Don’t be shy to learn the language. Start learning as soon as you get the opportunity – you will get a lot more respect and acceptance from the locals.
- Actively participate in public events and activities like festivals, local markets, and community gatherings organized by local municipilaties, cultural centers, and community groups.
- Join professional associations, industry events or networking groups related to your field.
- Volunteer with different organizations, for example, for environmental cleanups or other cultural activities.
