Tuwilika Lazarus

Swiss Quality Testing Services (SQTS)

Bachelor of Environmental Health Science
Namibia University of Science and Technology

01 September – 30 November 2024

At Work

My internship at Swiss Quality Testing Services (SQTS) has been a transformative experience, allowing me to develop both technical and professional skills. I had the privilege of working in two SQTS laboratories: one in the French-speaking part of Switzerland (St. Aubin) from September to October and another in the German-speaking part (Buchs) in November.

In St. Aubin, my tasks included sample preparation, pipetting, and performing PCR for Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, and Listeria spp., as well as Salmonella VIDAS testing. I also gained insight into how the MALDI-TOF system works. My mentor, Damien, was incredibly supportive and patient, ensuring I understood every step, while my colleagues created a welcoming environment that fostered growth and learning.

In Buchs, I worked under the mentorship of Fabian, who was always willing to explain any concepts I struggled with. Here, I expanded my expertise by focusing on colony counting and engaging in further laboratory tasks. My colleagues in Buchs were just as welcoming and made every effort to include me in all work activities, contributing to a collaborative and enjoyable work experience.

My Swiss Host Families – The Walkers and the Abdulkadir Family

I had the privilege of staying with two amazing host families during my time in Switzerland, and each provided me with unique and unforgettable experiences.

The Walkers family made my initial stay in Switzerland warm and welcoming. My host dad, Bernhard, with his kind and patient nature, taught me how to ride a bicycle. I’ll never forget how happy he was to see me confidently riding. Together, we visited several places, including the Désalpe Charmey ceremony in Fribourg, which was a highlight. I deeply appreciated the stories we shared and his constant encouragement. I also had a wonderful time with Valentina, Fabio, and Claudio, who felt like my little siblings. They were always eager to play and made every day lively and joyful. My host mom, Sury, was truly exceptional her ever-present smile, thoughtful check-ins to make sure I was okay, and her delicious dishes made me feel at home.

Later, I moved to stay with the Abdulkadir family, who were equally kind and caring. They welcomed me into their home with open arms and always ensured I was comfortable. Madeleine, a brilliant and talented woman, taught me how to bake wicker bread Zopf, and her intelligence and knowledge never ceased to amaze me. Mr. Abdulkadir brought so much laughter into the house with his jokes and fascinating stories, making the environment warm and cheerful. Both families played an integral role in making my time in Switzerland memorable, and I will always cherish the bonds we formed.

Highlights and challenges

My time in Switzerland was filled with incredible highlights and unforgettable experiences. One of the most exciting moments was my visit to Paris, where I had the opportunity to see the Eiffel Tower and explore Paris. Within Switzerland, I visited breathtaking destinations such as La Gruyère, Zermatt’s Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, and enjoyed a serene boat cruise on Lake Murten. Every weekend brought a new adventure, exploring places like Bern, Zurich, Bellinzona, Wetzikon, and many more. Switzerland’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and well-preserved heritage made each trip truly memorable.

However, my journey was not without its challenges. The language barrier was initially difficult, as I encountered both French and German in different parts of Switzerland. Gradually, I learned some commonly used words in both languages, which helped me communicate and adapt better. Balancing school and work were also a challenge, as the long hours at the laboratory left me exhausted sometimes. Despite this, I stayed focused, organized, and managed to complete all my academic responsibilities, which was an accomplishment I am proud of. These experiences, both rewarding and challenging, have not only enriched my life but also strengthened my resilience and adaptability.

Future Plans

I will focus on finishing my studies and obtaining my degree next year, with plans to continue my studies soon. I would also like to apply what I've learned to make a significant difference in my area of study when it comes to food safety and to utilize my knowledge and abilities to generate positive transformations in my local community.

Personal message

I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to B360 Education Partnerships and SQTS for this incredible opportunity. To my host families, my mentors: Damien and Fabian, and all my colleagues, thank you for your patience, guidance, and encouragement. This experience has been life-changing, and I am deeply grateful for the lessons, friendships, and memories that I will carry with me forever.