Isra understands that hard work pays off and recognizes the importance of continuously setting new goals. She arrived in Norway three years ago, and much has happened in a short time. As a mother of four, her journey has been defined by perseverance and ambition. 

“My journey has been filled with challenges but also great achievements, bringing me to where I am today, part of the Omega 365 family,” she says, crediting the Lifehack program as a key factor in reaching her goals. 

Lifehack is a collaborative initiative between Omega 365 and the integration office in Stjørdal municipality, providing comprehensive training in basic programming. 

Where it all began 

To understand Isra’s career path, we must go back several years. At 18, as a new mother, she began studying economics in Sudan. With unwavering support from her mother, husband, family, and friends, she successfully earned a degree in banking and finance. After completing her education, she secured a job at a bank, and her career started taking shape. 

“But life took a new turn when my husband moved to Norway. I faced a major challenge, caring for our children alone while waiting for my visa. It was an incredibly difficult period, especially considering the societal expectations and traditions in Sudan. I faced a lot of criticism, but instead of letting the waiting period hold me back, I decided to use the time to grow. While working, I pursued a higher diploma in business administration and later began a master’s degree. When I finally received my visa after many years, I had to put everything on hold and move to a new country with a completely different language and culture.” 

Adjusting to life in Norway was more challenging than she had anticipated. Learning a new language, finding a suitable job, and getting her education recognized were all significant hurdles. 

“But I refused to give up. I am ambitious and do not back down from challenges,” Isra says firmly. 

“I sought help from my advisor, who supported me in getting my education recognized. That was a huge relief, and I was determined to complete my master’s exams. Just one month after giving birth to my daughter Mona, we traveled back to Sudan, I passed my exams, and then we returned to Norway.” 

The Lifehack opportunity 

Back in Norway, Isra enrolled in Norwegian language courses at an adult education center and later participated in a language practice placement at Eikra Farm one day a week. She highlights advisor Oddrun Selstø and Eikra Farm leader Veronica Schanke Reinås as key supporters during this period. 

“This experience was invaluable. It not only helped me learn Norwegian but also gave me insight into Norwegian work culture and made integration easier,” she explains. 

Through her school, she came across an advertisement for the Lifehack programming course at Omega 365 Solutions. She attended the orientation, passed the entrance test, and joined the course. She cannot speak highly enough of the course, nor of the instructor and developer at Omega 365 Solutions, Mohammed Jamil-Senior. 

“Over six intensive months, I gained practical programming skills. After completing the course, two of my fellow students secured internships at Omega 365 Solutions. I hoped that one day, a similar opportunity would open up for me as well.” 

Landing the dream job 

After completing the course, Isra worked for three weeks during the summer holiday with the “Alle skal med” program at Eikra Farm, helping immigrant women with integration and language training. Even after the program ended, she continued as a volunteer, despite needing a paid job. For Isra, it was important to recognize the value of the experience and the opportunities volunteering provided. 

“I had a mentor at the farm who was 82 years old. She was incredible at helping me with language training and offering useful advice. During this time, I applied for jobs every single day and received invaluable guidance from advisors.” 

In November 2024, her master’s degree was officially recognized, a major milestone for her and her family, marking the reward for years of hard work. 

That was when Department Manager at Omega 365 Solutions, Lars Aas Kjebekk, reached out to her on LinkedIn. He asked if she would be interested in trying out an internship at Omega 365. She didn’t hesitate. 

“That moment was life-changing. Omega 365 was my dream company, and now I am part of it! I started my training and later secured a job at Omega 365, proving that effort, patience, and perseverance truly pay off.” 

Lars Aas Kjebekk is highly impressed with Isra's progress. 

“Isra participated in the second group of the Lifehack course. She quickly stood out as fearless, outgoing, and ambitious. During the final presentation, she delivered by far the best performance, even though she wasn’t the top performer technically as a system developer. Although Isra didn’t secure an internship as a system developer at that time, we had not forgotten her. When the need for more resources in system consulting arose, it was only natural to ask if she was interested. Since joining Omega 365, Isra has maintained her positive attitude and continued to grow. As a result, she will soon be starting a full-time assignment with one of our major clients, Altera Infrastructure in Trondheim,” he says. 

Setting new goals 

Today, Isra is passionate about giving back to her community, and her goals have evolved rather than diminished. She is now involved in a project organized by the local Rotary Club called “Hand in Hand Towards Employment.” This initiative aims to help unemployed refugees find jobs while providing opportunities to practice their new language. The program engages five retirees as mentors for immigrants, helping more people enter the workforce. 

A common theme in Isra’s journey is always looking forward. 

“My message to anyone facing challenges in a new country or career is this: Never give up! Keep learning, keep seeking opportunities, and believe in yourself. Your dreams can come true, just like mine did at Omega 365.”