Communications and Commercial Intern

Communications and Commercial Intern: Post 1/3

Irene Rumiz

Hi! 

I'm glad to share my experience from these past two weeks as a Communications and Commercial Intern at The Loop Factory. It has been an amazing and eye-opening experience, both within the sustainability field and in getting to know the working environment in Sweden. It has been incredible to combine my previous work experience in marketing and management with the sustainability knowledge I’ve acquired from several courses at university. This is my first time working in a company whose core mission is sustainability and making the world a better place by reducing and optimizing waste. I’ve had the opportunity not only to be included in ongoing projects and collaborate with different team members, but also to take the lead on one project, which has really boosted my confidence. It means a lot that they trust me and believe I’m capable of it.

I also had the opportunity to visit the lab and see how transformation occurs, how waste is turned into something entirely new. That was truly impressive. It shows that the circular economy is actually possible. This experience has undoubtedly opened my eyes and expanded my horizons, because it’s very different to read about it than to see and understand how it actually works.

Another important aspect of these two weeks is the cultural differences I’ve experienced compared to work environments back home (Dominican Republic) and here in Sweden. The kindness and understanding among coworkers is impressive; no one judges or talks behind your back, which is something more common back home. The flexibility with time, the design of the office space (it even has a resting room!), and, of course, fika, are all things that stand out. The fact that all team members, regardless of role, eat together and share stories and experiences during lunch, or that taking a walk after eating is normal and accepted, shows how important it is in Sweden to balance work and well-being. Healthy and happy employees are more productive, and that’s sometimes overshadowed back home by the pressure to produce constantly.

Last but not least, commuting has been a completely new experience for me. Since The Loop Factory is in Varberg, I travel there by train, and I must admit, I like it. It’s my first time commuting to work, and this routine is interesting and enjoyable (at least for now, let’s see in a few weeks).

I’ll keep you posted on how it goes :)

IR