Nilton Garrido moved from Portugal to Belgium 18 months ago and has been working as a truck driver in our organization for just over a year. His move was not only a new step in his career but also had symbolic value: he wanted to show his brothers that you have to dare to take a leap in life to achieve something.

The story of how you came to Belgium is quite special, isn’t it?
Nilton: “One day, I got a call from a Belgian temp agency. They wanted to talk to me in three days’ time about a job that required me to have my own vehicle. My car’s engine was no longer reliable; the only reliable vehicle I had was my scooter. So, I packed my backpack, jumped on my scooter, and drove to Belgium at 105 km/h. So far, I have no regrets!”

Why did you decide to take the leap to Belgium?
Nilton: “I was at a point in my life where I needed a change. There were opportunities in Belgium. Not just for me, but also for my family. Moreover, I value my family very much: I have four younger brothers and, as the eldest, I wanted to set a good example: if you want to achieve something in life, you just have to go for it, despite any obstacles.”

“My mom was much more concerned when she found out I was going to Belgium. That’s understandable, of course. She has visited me twice since then, and now her concern has given way to pride. She has seen why I came here and knows I have a clear plan in mind: to give my daughter the best life possible.”

How does H.Essers differ from other companies?
Nilton: “Above all, I feel seen and heard. Many companies see you as a resource to be used, but I don’t feel that way here at all. I have an excellent, open, and honest relationship with the Coordinators Resources and my other colleagues. For example, sometimes I have to plan my days so that I can pick up my daughter in the evening. That requires some extra planning. It’s not always easy, but things like that make you feel appreciated.”

“Another example: I hadn’t been in Belgium long when I came to apply for a job at H.Essers. I still only had my scooter and no car, and there was snow on the ground when I had to come for the interview. So I couldn’t get there. Many companies would have left it at that. But here, they said they understood my situation and we made a new appointment. That told me that they are understanding and care for the human aspect here.”

“For example, I also mentioned that I didn’t have any CE experience yet, but I did have a certificate. So I started practicing at H.Essers Academy to gain more experience. It’s nice to feel that they listen to your needs and actually do something about them.”

Why do you work at H.Essers?
Nilton: “I think H.Essers has a good structure, I see a future for myself here, and we have a clear strategy for the coming years.”