Goodbye letter from our colleague Ritva Naumanen

Time has come to say goodbye to our colleague Ritva, who is leaving her post in Singapore after three years. Thank you from all the great memories! Read Ritva's goodbye letter below.

We had joy, we had fun, we had seasons in the sun - time to say goodbye!

 

I’m leaving Singapore after three amazingly rewarding and at the same time most peculiar years. The past Covid times have taught me flexibility, creativity and deeper meaning of the kiasu and kiasi culture. 

 

I am grateful and honored for being able to get to know so many wonderful people both professionally and personally over the past three years. Without their friendship, support and collaboration, my time here would not have been the same. I will cherish all our achievements together. It makes me sad that I could not say goodbye in person over my favorite cocktail Singapore Sling, but let’s toast virtually! I’ll surely miss the people and also wondering how I will survive the winter in Finland without chicken rice, chili crab, bak kut teh and kaya toast? So shiok!

 

Surely it is exciting to go back home close to my family and start working for the External Economic Relations Department at MFA Finland to promote the internationalization of Finnish enterprises. Lots of new challenges ahead.

 

Special thanks and safe distance hugs to my great Embassy team, keep up the good can lah spirit and stay positive!

 

I leave you with a haiku: 

 

Amidst complex times
Hopeful stories shimmer bright
We breathe, look ahead.

 

Wishing you all the best for the future!

 

Ritva Naumanen

Deputy Head of Mission

Embassy of Finland