Temitope Sobulo, a Nigerian cybersecurity expert based in Wroclaw, Poland, exemplifies the spirit of innovation and adaptation. A graduate of the University of Ibadan with a first-class degree in Geology, Temitope has carved a successful path in a completely different field – cybersecurity. With her extensive knowledge in risk management, security policies, and awareness programs, she’s currently driving security initiatives and training at Arla. In this exclusive interview with allnaijadiaspora, Temitope shares her experiences navigating life in Poland and offers valuable advice for Nigerians contemplating a move to this vibrant European nation.
Could you tell us a bit about yourself and how long you’ve been living in Poland?
My name is Temitope Sobulo, I am from Ogun State in Nigeria. I am a Christian and a graduate of the University of Ibadan, working in the Cybersecurity sector currently. I have been living in Poland for about 8years.
What initially brought you to Poland?
I got a scholarship from the Polish Government in September, 2016. The scholarship provided me with the opportunity to first attend a language school to improve my Polish language skills. After completing the language program, I was able to use the scholarship to pursue a Master’s degree in Polish.
You are a first-class geology professional, what informed your switch to technology?
The world is changing and the technology is expanding. Yes, I did study geology for my first degree and Mining & geology for my second degree (specialization is underground and opencast mining). While my initial geology career path seemed promising, at university, we learned that navigating the mining industry in Poland as a foreigner could be challenging due to language barriers. This prompted me to explore other career options where my skills could be transferable.
One of the biggest challenges for people moving to a new country is the language barrier. How have you found learning Polish? Have you encountered any situations where the language barrier has been a significant obstacle?
True, language barrier can be an issue across Europe. Like many people moving abroad, the language barrier was one of my biggest challenges in Poland. Compared to languages like Spanish or Italian, Polish is notoriously difficult to learn, with its complex grammar and pronunciation. It’s also quite distinct from its Slavic cousins like Slovakian and Czech.
In the early days, communication was incredibly frustrating. Shopping was a particular obstacle – everything from food labels to everyday items were in Polish. One instance that sticks out is from our third day. We needed cups, and from our language studies, we knew “kawa” meant “coffee” (with the cup included). We excitedly told the shop assistant we needed “kawa,” only to discover “kawa” refers solely to the coffee itself, not the cup. The word for an empty cup is actually “kubek.” Needless to say, we returned home that evening frustrated and cupless!
Finding work in a new country can be difficult. Did you find it challenging to secure employment in Poland? What kind of work do you do?
Yes, finding job is always challenging in a new country. Despite being a scholarship recipient with relaxed work hour restrictions, it still took me seven months to land my first job. Students or scholarship recipients don’t have work hours restrictions in Poland. The first job I got in 2017 was a cleaning job, I was cleaning an office space for about a month and half then I got my first office job as a customer support specialist by June 2017. I moved gradually into procurement for a short period of time with a Swiss bank. I was able to make my first switch into cybersecurity role by February 2022. Today, I work in Security GRC for Arla Foods GSS in Gdansk Poland.
In your experience, what are the job prospects for Nigerians living in Poland? Are there any specific industries or fields that seem to be more welcoming to foreign workers?
In my experience, the job market for Nigerians in Poland has become more welcoming since I arrived in 2016. It seems Nigerians can now find temporary work like Uber Eats deliveries relatively quickly upon arrival, while transitioning to applying for better corporate positions within 6 months. I have seen several newbies getting their first official jobs within 6months of arrival. The industries function the same way depending on your skill set. Polish job market is big on skill sets than degree. There is always a possibility to have white colleagues who don’t even have a degree yet and they are in managerial positions.
How would you compare the lifestyle and the culture in Poland to that of Nigeria? What are some of the biggest adjustments you’ve had to make?
Polish and Nigerian cultures are vastly different. Family life is a prime example. In Nigeria, strong emphasis is placed on extended family. Caring for elderly parents is a filial duty, whereas in Poland, it’s more individualistic, with adult children often living separately from their parents. Another difference is societal attitudes towards childbearing. In Nigeria, large families are the norm, and not wanting children can be seen as unusual. Poland, on the other hand, has a lower birth rate, and child-free lifestyles are becoming more accepted. Food culture also differs. Polish cuisine emphasizes hearty dishes with ingredients like potatoes, cabbage, and meats. Nigerians enjoy a wider variety of spices and flavours in their meals.
Have you found a strong Nigerian community in Poland? How do you stay connected to your Nigerian heritage while living abroad?
Yes, we have a strong community of Nigerians where I live in Wroclaw, Poland. We have over 200 Nigerians and we meet once in a while to eat together, play our music, speak in pidgin English which have helped in keeping us bound to home.
Poland has a rich history and beautiful scenery. What are some of your favorite places to visit in Poland?
One of my favourites is Krakow, a beautiful city with a charming main square. For history buffs, the World War II Museum in Gdansk is a must-see. For a unique experience, Gdansk also boasts the Amber Museum, while Poznan offers a quirky attraction – a museum dedicated to the art of making croissants.
Would you recommend Poland as a tourist (and relocation destination) destination for Nigerians?
Definitely, is a great place to live. Gdansk would definitely be my recommendation especially in summer because of its beach.
What advice would you give to other Nigerians who are considering moving to Poland?
If you are looking for where to make more money based on the currency and you are not in the IT sector, then Poland shouldn’t be in your list, but if you are looking for quality of life then Poland should top your list. The Polish job market is growing drastically because of influx of international industry. With hard work and the right skills, Poland offers a lot of career potential for ambitious individuals.
Looking ahead, do you see yourself staying in Poland for the long term?
Yes, I would say 8years is already a long time and I am not planning to leave any time soon.
Have you experienced any discrimination or cultural misunderstandings while living in Poland?
Yes, I have couple of times, but these few situations are way less than the good friends I have made among polish people.
What are some of the things you miss most about Nigeria?
The aspect is the food and the warm weather. Other than that I think personally Poland is already home for me. I still have my mum send me food from Nigeria though. I still miss the amala at home.
Are there any aspects of Polish life that you find particularly surprising or unexpected?
Polish life has definitely had its share of surprises! One of the most unexpected things for me was the robust labour law system. For instance, the generous parental leave options – up to a year with 80% of basic pay – and paid sick leave at 80% of salary were quite impressive.
Are there anything else you would like to share about your experience living in Poland?
If you have any recent first class graduate from Nigeria University, they can apply for NAWA scholarship for masters in Poland
You run a widely regarded YouTube channel that engages people who want to relocate. How has the experience been, and what do you find insightful about what people say about relocation?
So far, so good. I have been busy lately and not been consistent enough but people think that going abroad is rosy, it is not as rosy as we think it is from Africa.
