From Brazil to Spain to Finland – Priscila Da Silva's journey in biopharma at FinVector

Roots in Brazil and Spain

Relocating to a new country often presents a unique blend of challenges and opportunities, especially when that move involves a career shift in a dynamic field like biotechnology. Priscila Da Silva’s story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of professional fulfilment. Her journey from Brazil to Finland, and her role at FinVector, offer valuable insights into the experiences of international talent in the biopharma industry.

Priscila Da Silva was born in São Paulo, Brazil, and moved to Córdoba, Spain at the age of eleven. As an only child raised by a single mother, Priscila learned early on about the complexities and resilience required to navigate life as an immigrant. “We lived through tough situations as foreigners,” she recalls, “but I cherish the good memories.”

Professional challenges and turning points

Priscila’s career began in Spain, where she secured a well-regarded position in a notable company. However, despite outward success, she found herself struggling with depression and anxiety. “Everyone thought I had an amazing job, but inside, I was quite unhappy,” she admits. This realisation led her to quit her job and pursue further education in informatics.

A year after visiting a friend in Kuopio, Finland, Priscila faced a turning point. Her friend mentioned a job opportunity at FinVector, an up-and-coming cGMP in biopharma. With nothing to lose, Priscila sent her CV and cover letter, leading to a swift and natural hiring process. “In one or two months, my life changed completely,” she says.

Adapting to life and work in Finland

Relocating to Kuopio was both an adventure and a significant adjustment. Priscila was struck by the efficiency and ease of Finland’s bureaucratic processes, a stark contrast to her experiences in Brazil and Spain. “Everything was super easy, from documentation to setting up my life here,” she notes.

Priscila’s role at FinVector involved an intensive two-week induction program, which she found both exhausting and enriching. “Not all companies offer such comprehensive onboarding,” she observes, appreciating the professionalism and structured nature of Finnish work culture.

Cultural integration and personal growth

Despite initial challenges in adapting to Finnish social norms, Priscila found a welcoming and multicultural environment at FinVector. “Walking through the corridors and seeing people from all over the world makes it feel a little like home,” she says. The sense of community and belonging, reinforced by FinVector’s inclusive culture, has been a significant factor in her positive experience. Priscila highlights the importance of attitude over technical expertise in her integration into specialised manufacturing for the biopharma industry. “It’s your attitude that they value. With the right training, you can be a great worker,” she emphasises.

Work-life balance and future aspirations

Finland’s renowned work-life balance has enabled Priscila to explore personal interests and activities. From skiing on frozen lakes to trying new sports like jiu-jitsu, she is embracing the opportunities her new environment offers. “After setting up the basics, I’m starting to enjoy the benefits of a balanced life,” she says.

Priscila also appreciates FinVector’s mission of “delivering hope,” which resonates deeply with her personal values. “Even after a rough day, seeing the mission reminds me that our work means something,” she reflects.

Watch Priscila’s story from our YouTube channel