After graduation, my goal is to continue building my career in the tourism industry, with a strong focus on sustainable and high-end tourism. I want to contribute to experiences that respect nature, local culture, and local communities, while still delivering exceptional quality to guests from around the world.

My name is Fazal Shabdeen, and I am originally from Sri Lanka. I am currently studying in the Degree Programme in Tourism. Before coming to Finland, I spent more than 15 years living and working in Qatar, where I built my career in the tourism, hospitality, and finance sectors. During that time, I worked in hotels, cafés, and supervisory roles, gaining hands-on experience in customer service, operations, and administration. In addition to my professional experience, I have completed postgraduate studies in Business Administration, which helped me understand tourism not only from an operational perspective but also from a strategic and sustainable point of view. Although my career was progressing well, I felt a strong need to deepen my knowledge and continue growing in the tourism field in a more meaningful and future-oriented way.

Having lived in very different climates—from the tropical warmth of Sri Lanka at around +30°C to the intense heat of Qatar reaching +50°C, and now the Arctic winters of Lapland at −30°C—I have come to understand how deeply the environment shapes people, lifestyles, and experiences. These contrasts have strengthened my appreciation for nature and reinforced my interest in tourism that is rooted in place, respect, and sustainability.

I moved to Finland with a clear goal: to study tourism in one of the best environments in the world for nature-based and sustainable tourism. Today, I live in Rovaniemi with my wife and our three children. My wife’s support has been incredibly important throughout my educational journey, and having my family with me gives me stability, motivation, and balance in everyday life. Being able to study with the support of my family has made this experience even more meaningful and rewarding.

Living and studying in Rovaniemi has been truly special. After years surrounded by the busy streets of Doha and the constant noise of Colombo, the peaceful lifestyle here feels deeply refreshing. As a nature lover who enjoys travelling, hiking, and exploring new places, I find Lapland the perfect environment for both life and learning. I value the close connection to nature and the strong sense of community. Winter is my favourite season. I love the snow, the silence it brings, the cold air, and especially the northern lights. Rovaniemi offers a unique balance between modern student life and untouched Arctic nature, making it an inspiring place to study tourism.

(Story of Fazal continues after the picture)

Fazal tourism -student

One of the most meaningful study experiences for me so far has been the course Designing High-End Customer Experiences. It was the first assignment I completed after moving to Finland, and it took place in the nature of Lapland. The experience had a deep impact on me. It showed me how emotions, nature, and thoughtful service design can come together to create unforgettable tourism experiences, and it confirmed that I had chosen the right field and the right place to study.

After graduation, my goal is to continue building my career in the tourism industry, with a strong focus on sustainable and high-end tourism. I want to contribute to experiences that respect nature, local culture, and local communities, while still delivering exceptional quality to guests from around the world.

People should come to Lapland not just to visit a destination, but to experience a different rhythm of life. Lapland teaches patience, respect for nature, and the beauty of simplicity. It is a place that leaves a quiet but lasting mark on everyone who experiences it.

– Fazal, Bachelor of Hospitality Management, Tourism -student –