Work brought Shiyuan Liu from China to North Karelia, but Joensuu quickly became much more than just a workplace: a community, nature, a peaceful daily life, and a future home for the whole family.
Originally from China, Shiyuan Liu now works as a project manager at Nanocomp’s Kontiolahti office. He has been in the field of project management for over six years. That includes his latest working experience. He has worked in Nanocomp for almost 2 years, gradually taking on more responsibilities over time.
Nanocomp is a technology company based in Lehmo, that manufactures optical instruments based on nanotechnology. Liu joined the company when he realized that its values aligned with his own professional goals and principles.
Joensuu quickly became much more than just a workplace
Today, he is responsible for ensuring the smooth delivery of goods across the Asia area.
“I like my job because it is directly related to project management – an area I feel personally connected to. The company operates internationally, and we have many customers from Asia, including China and Taiwan. The management saw my potential, especially in regard to these markets,” Liu explains.
He appreciates Nanocomp’s simple organizational model, where discussions with management are direct and open.
“There’s no need to make things too complicated – you can just knock on the door and say what’s on your mind.”
The Language Barrier Was Not an Obstacle
Liu moved to Joensuu for work, but the transition was not entirely smooth at first. Not speaking Finnish made it somewhat challenging to integrate into the work community, and in the beginning, he had to rely on English. Over time, however, the situation improved, also in terms of language skills.
Returning to China was never really considered
His family arrived in Finland last July. Before that moment, he was living on his own. The inconvenience of returning to China and the long-term separation caused by COVID made him rethink the meaning of work and life. He realized the importance of family, so he felt the need to live with his family. Returning to China was never really considered.
“If we had traveled to China, we would have had to go through a three-week quarantine, meaning we would have been separated from our family,” Liu recalls.
Finding Balance in Joensuu
Liu has given much thought to balancing work and family life, and Joensuu has provided the right environment for achieving that balance. He describes the city as a peaceful and appropriately sized place where the whole family enjoys living. He also praises the locals.
“People here are very friendly. If you need help, even in a store, you get it without even asking.”
Liu’s family participates in a family school program in Joensuu, designed for immigrant families with children
The city has also supported their integration. Liu’s family participates in a family school program in Joensuu, designed for immigrant families with children. The program offers weekly activities where families from similar backgrounds can connect and support one another.
“There is also a Chinese community in the city, which welcomes Finns as well. This works very well for us.”
“More Finnish Than Chinese”
Joensuu has made it easy for Liu to pick up new hobbies. He lives near the Vesikko swimming hall and swims almost daily. In winter, he also enjoys ice skating and skiing – especially with his children.
“I have really started to love the sauna. We heat it almost every day,” Liu laughs.
I have really started to love the sauna. We heat it almost every day.
“My wife says that because of the sauna, I am now more Finnish than Chinese.”
In the summer, the family enjoys spending time in nature, often bringing picnic snacks or a grill along.
An Exciting Future Ahead
Shiyuan Liu sees a bright future ahead. His position as a project manager at Nanocomp is part of an ongoing three-to-five-year plan, which brings stability to his career.
In his personal life, anticipation is just as high—his family is expecting a new addition in June.
“The rest of the year will surely be dedicated to family,” Liu smiles.
This material was produced as part of the activities of the City of Joensuu Innovation Ecosystem Agreement (ERDF), co-funded by the European Union and the city of Joensuu.
Artificial intelligence has been used in the translation of the article.
