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This article was created by Vatan, Head Gardener, Sodexo Turkey
Growing flowers, growing dreams
My dream was to stand on my own two feet ౼ now, it’s my reality.
I was born with a green thumb
I’ve always been drawn to plants ౼ I like taking care of them and watching them grow. When I was younger, I lived near a small field where I would spend hours planting flowers and various types of plants, experimenting, and teaching myself how to propagate different species. In Turkey, we’re asked to choose a career path in the 10th grade ౼ for me the choice was easy, I chose agriculture.
Honing my craft
My decision led me to study at a private state-run school for students with disabilities. I studied in the botanical department and was given the opportunity to do what I love in a professional learning environment. I loved learning about different types of soils, various propagation methods and how the industry works.
Part of a team
At the time, I knew very little about Sodexo, but I was accepted into their Future Ateliers program, where I expanded my botanical and agriculture knowledge and was eventually offered a job once I graduated. My experience in the company has been nothing but positive. The company truly creates an inclusive and accepting environment. From day one, I felt that I was offered the same opportunities as anyone else in the company.
When I joined Sodexo, I worked under the head gardener as an assistant. Less than four years later, I became the head gardener! Every day, I interact with the site manager and the employees ౼ discussing what they like or things that I can change. Given the size of the site, I’ve also been able to expand my expertise from flowers to trees and other larger plants.
Dreams come true
I used to dream about being able to make my own money and stand on my own ౼ today I do exactly that. I’m even able to help support my family financially. This is an enormous source of pride for me. I’m also proud that Sodexo saw something in me, invested in my training and entrusted me to handle this job on my own.
I feel very lucky to have my first professional experience be so positive. I’ve learned so much over the years and I continue to grow and expand my responsibilities and capabilities. I’m only 20 years old, so I don’t know what the future has in store for me. But I have a new dream: to open my own flower shop and maybe one day, create beautiful arrangements for weddings and special events.