In 2020, I came to Switzerland as a refugee from Colombia. Without my family, but with a big dream in my heart and the hope of a new life in mind, I found myself alone in a foreign country, full of challenges. Not only did I have to learn a new language and find my way in this new culture, but I also had to find a way to stand on my own two feet.
Beatriz Millàn with bags made for Axpo in the Urner factory of KoKoTé
Just one year later, in December 2021, a door opened for me at KoKoTé that fundamentally changed my life. There I found not only a job, but a real opportunity. The practice-oriented training as a textile practitioner gave me the opportunity to develop my skills and grow in a supportive community. In addition to the technical knowledge, I learned how important teamwork, discipline and flexibility are - qualities that help me to prove myself professionally and to feel personally at home in Switzerland.
The arts and crafts in particular fill me with joy and pride every day. It is not just work, but a passion that drives me and gives me strength again and again. I am now even learning English so that I can serve the international customers in our shop in Zurich even better. And I am lucky enough to be able to pass on my knowledge of textiles and materials to our three new apprentices - an aspect of my work that I have really grown to love.
KoKoTé gives me the opportunity to develop professionally and to work in an environment that gives me security and stability. I have achieved my goal of being financially independent and having a permanent job. Even though I miss my family in Colombia a lot, I feel that I am on the right path to building a new, stable life for myself here. Working for KoKoTé has not only given me a professional perspective - it has opened a door to a hopeful future.
