When Brazilian IT specialist Raphael (34) decided to move to the Netherlands with his family, he knew it would be a life-changing step. Today, he works as a Database Engineer at Rabobank through Wypoon and looks back on his journey with pride:
“It was scary at first, but it was absolutely the right thing to do. I’ve learned so much, it’s expanding my mind.”
A new life in the Netherlands
Raphael lives in Nijmegen with his wife and their three-year-old son. He started working in Utrecht, a city he describes as charming and cozy. “Utrecht reminds me a bit of Amsterdam, the canals and environment but it’s quieter and easier to navigate,” he says. Due to the high housing prices, the family choose to Nijmegen, a decision he’s very happy about. “It’s such a beautiful and peaceful city with a rich Roman history. We truly feel at home here. During my research I secretly hoped I would end up here, and by coincidence I started working closeby so everyting fell into place!”
Support from Wypoon
Moving to a new country can be challenging, but clear guidance and support made the process much easier for Raphael. “They provided clear, step-by-step explanations about what I needed to do, which documents to prepare, and how to handle practical matters. Whenever I had questions, I always received quick and clear answers. That made me feel safe and supported.”
He also formed a close bond with his Wypoon colleagues. “We made a deal to visit eachother in the cities we were goint to end up in. So far, we’ve had meetups in Eindhoven, Helmond, and Nijmegen, it’s a great way to discover the country.”
"I truly believe the Netherlands is the best country in the world to raise a child"
Raphael’s wife and son joined him when they moved to the Netherlands. “We love spending time outdoors, enjoying the garden, the flowers, and the river nearby,” he says with a smile. “When I go running, my wife and son wait for me by the riverside. Those are such precious moments.”
His wife was fully supportive of the decision to move. “We both wanted to give our son a better quality of life. I truly believe the Netherlands is the best country in the world to raise a child.”
Personal and professional growth
For Raphael, relocation meant a fresh start: a new country, a new role, and a new language. “Stepping out of my comfort zone was scary, but it was worth it. I’ve grown so much, both personally and professionally.”
At Rabobank, he finds real meaning in his work: “I like that what I do creates value for clients and on the other side I learn a lot from it. It feels like a win-win.”
Differences between Brazil and the Netherlands
The biggest differences? Raphael laughs: “The weather, of course! It’s completely different, but I really love the colours of autumn. And also the people. Dutch people are direct and straightforward, and I really admire that and it fits my personality.”
He adds: “I love stroopwafels, though I still prefer Brazilian food overall!”
"Just come. It's a big decision, but it's worth it."
Raphael feels welcome, both as a professional and as an immigrant. His family has integrated well into their Nijmegen neighborhood and built warm connections. “One of our elderly neighbors has a garden full of animal statues. She once came outside to tell my son all the animal names in Dutch. Little moments like that mean so much to me, because the happiness of my child is the most important thing.”
His message to anyone considering moving to the Netherlands is simple: “Just come. It’s a big decision, but it’s worth it.”
"It feels like everything falls into place here and I am happy that I followed my instinct."
When asked what phrase would best describe his experience on a traditional Dutch tile, Raphael didn’t hesitate: “I am Dutch in heart and kidneys.”
Having lived in Chile, New Zealand, Germany, Belgium, and many other country’s he feels the strongest connection to the Netherlands. “I love the openness, honesty, and directness of Dutch people. It feels like everything falls into place here and I am happy that I followed my instinct. This is where I want to build a future for my family and give something back to society.”
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