A "thank you" note to my heroes...

It’s almost 20 years, ago and I still remember it very clearly as if it was yesterday.

30^th of January 1995 I stepped into Telia’s reception Magnusladulåsgatan 2. It was a Monday and my first day at my first job in Sweden. I was going to start as a PC technician (PC support) to help Telia employees. My employment as on a trial basis and if Iproved myself than may be than I could be employed.

I was full of energy, hopeand very nervous at the same time. 20 years later I am grateful to those people who welcomed me. Ulf, Stefan, Lars, Christoffer, Anders, Tommy, Mats, Kari and everyone else who showed their greatness and courage by accepting me for who I am and how I was. 

I am grateful that they explained to me, in some cases several times what I should do, how I should do it, what I could and couldn’t say. I am grateful that they corrected me when I used the wrong words and/or phrases so that I learnt Swedish so quickly. I am grateful that I from day one felt that I was part of group. I gained self confedence and I felt proud of being part of my team.

So, today, 7301 days later, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of them, my heroes. If it wasn’t for them I would not been where I am today and I don’t mean only professionally. 

Telia was and has been a wonderful company to work for and it was a great school. Telia gave me, and many other employees, opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. Less than 3 years after I started as a PC technician, I took the job as Regional Manager for all PC technicians in Stockholm area, with more than 160 employees and consultants.

I know that when you work hard and you are doing your job well, you’re kind to your customers and colleagues and you show that you have ambitions you will be recognized. Sooner or later you will get chances like I did. A hero will step up and give you chance and when he or she does, grab it and do it to best of your abilities, and than some more!!! More heroes will be around as your colleagues, customers and they will give valuable feedback and advice. I always and will continue to embrace any feedback and take it granted that all feedback were given to me with the best of intentions.

A word of advice, DON'T wait 20 years to thank your heroes like I did!! :-)

I couldn't help myself going also by the restaurant we used to go for lunch. The name is still the same and I hope to get together with my firends and heros soon...


Today I am more convinced than ever that what I am trying to do is what I am meant to do. If you want to know more about my new challenge, Diversity Intiative and want me to share my story, Min resa and/or want to have a Diversity Awareness workshop pls contact me.