For people who have migrated to Sweden from other countries, it can be difficult to find work – often because of educational background, language skills or knowledge of local job markets. These difficulties are even more pronounced for women, which is why the Swedish Public Employment Service has developed a project called Mirjam.

Mirjam is aimed at newly arrived women between 25 and 65, and aims not only to speed up the process of finding work or training, but to break down gender stereotypes. As Project Manager Maria Edberg explains, “We want to broaden the view on suitable and possible jobs and give the women frames of reference to make wise choices regarding work.”

The project, which takes place in the Östergötland and Sörmland regions, has been specially designed with a female focus, with inspirational activities and discussion workshops, presentations from female role models, and the space for participants to find and nurture hidden talents.